Is the new Cadillac Optiq the entry-level luxury electric SUV we’ve been waiting for?

Cadillac unveiled its most affordable luxury EV so far, the 2025 Optiq, on Wednesday. Cadillac’s new Optiq is the “new luxury entry point” for EV buyers, but can it keep up with Tesla’s Model Y?

The new 2025 Optiq will join Cadillac’s growing lineup of electric cars. Cadillac’s EV portfolio includes the Lyriq, Escalade IQ, Celestiq, and Vistiq launching next year.

Cadillac has been teasing a cheaper electric SUV to sit below the Lyriq as the brand’s entry-level EV.

Compared to other Cadillac electric cars, like the $340K Celestiq or $130K Escalade IQ, the Optiq is aimed at a new segment of buyers.

With a growing number of younger buyers in the US, Cadillac’s new Optiq “will be an important gateway to attract luxury EV intenders” to the brand. Cadillac confirmed its goal of offering a fully electric portfolio by 2030.

Meanwhile, the Optiq will be sold in 10 regions, including Europe, as Cadillac looks to revamp overseas sales.

Cadillac promises its new entry-level EV will feature “several segment-leading features” and remain true to the Cadillac brand as it looks to stand out in a sea of luxury SUV rivals.

Cadillac’s Optiq EV is the new entry-level luxury EV

With a 6″ shorter wheelbase, the Optiq is more agile and fun to drive than the Lyriq. “The Ultium Platform allows us to fit enough muscle into a smaller package to provide a thrilling performance, delivering a sensation of isolated precision,” chief engineer John Cockburn explained.

Powered by an 85 kWh battery pack with standard dual-motor AWD, the Optiq offers up to 300 miles Cadillac-estimated miles of range. It can also add up to 79 miles of range in 10 minutes with DC fast charging.

Cadillac’s new Optiq EV features a vented rear spoiler, diffuser, and other elements to boost aerodynamics (without compromising the SUV’s design).

Other exterior elements add to the Optiq’s sporty design, such as a fixed-glass roof, signature black crystal grille, and upgraded rear quarter panels. The Optiq also features signature lighting, so you are met with a light show when you walk up to or exit the vehicle.

The high-tech interior includes a 33″ diagonal advanced LED display with 9K resolution, Super Cruise driver assist as standard, advanced radar, camera, ultrasonic sensor tech, and Google built-in. It also comes loaded with segment-leading cargo space and second-row space.

At 190″ long, 84″ wide (with mirrors), and 65″ tall, the Cadillac Optiq will rival Tesla’s Model Y (187″ long x 76″ wide x 64″ tall) and other luxury electric SUVs in the segment.

The AWD system packs an estimated 300 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. Cadillac’s Optiq EV will be available in two trims: Luxury and Sport, with starting prices around $54,000 (including destination fee).

Cadillac says Optiq production will begin in late fall, with European specs and sales set for later this year.

Electrek’s Take

Can Cadillac’s new Optiq EV compete with top-selling luxury rivals like Tesla, BMW, or Mercedes-Benz?

GM hopes Cadillac’s most affordable EV can help spark sales growth. Between the Optiq, Chevy Blazer EV, Equinox EV, and Silverado EV, GM has a strong slate of electric cars rolling out.

CEO Mary Barra calls 2024 the “year of execution” after battery production hurdles led to missed sales targets last year.

Barra believes the battery issues are “behind us now” as it looks to ramp EV sales this year. With production of the current Chevy Bolt EV/EUV ending last December, GM is looking to fill the massive hole.

GM aims to build 200,000 to 300,000 Ultium-based EVs this year, about 20 times more than last year. The company sold less than 14,000 Ultium models last year, with the other +62,000 being the Bolt.

Can Cadillac’s new Optiq help revamp the brand and compete with luxury EV rivals? Drop us a comment below to let us know your thoughts.