Cadillac’s 2025 Optiq might be the ideal car for you if you’re searching for a high-end yet reasonably-priced electric vehicle. The automaker has been marketing the Optiq, a two-row SUV, as its entry-level product since its unveiling last November.
Starting at $54,000 (₹45 lakhs), the 2025 Optiq is an affordable option for a luxury manufacturer such as Cadillac. Additionally, it will include plenty of standard features to boost its sales pitch, such as Super Cruise hands-free driving assistance, dual-motor all-wheel drive, and an abundance of native Google apps.
However, it won’t support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, nor can you mirror your smartphone on the central display. We’ll have to wait and watch how the lack of well-liked phone projection systems affects consumers, especially, the younger demographic that Cadillac is trying so hard to attract.
Global Cadillac Vice President John Roth stated in a news release that the brand’s proportion of younger customers has increased by 5% in the U.S.
Powertrain and Battery
The 2025 Optiq has an 85kWh battery pack that can add about 127km range in 10 minutes when connected to a DC fast charger. General Motors has estimated a total range of 480km; however, the Environmental Protection Agency often has the last say.
The dual motor configuration, producing 354 lb-ft of torque and 300 horsepower, seems sufficient to attract the younger audience. Compared to the $64,000 Lyriq, it has a little bit more torque and a bit less horsepower. Cadillac claims that the Optiq’s low-rolling tires, diffusers, and rear spoiler make it a sportier vehicle than other small SUVs.
Dimension and Features
The Optiq is 15cm shorter than the Lyriq and a bit longer than Cadillac’s gas-powered XT5. This is due to its 116-inch wheelbase. The Optiq offers 26 cubic feet of cargo capacity and 57 cubic feet with a folded second row.
The base curb weight of the compact SUV will be 2,355kg with its 10-module Ultium battery on the floor of the car. The Optiq comes standard with 20-inch wheels, while 21-inch wheels are an option.
Optiq will offer one-pedal driving and incorporate a regenerative system that enables drivers to reduce speed or stop the car using shifter paddles. Furthermore, four driving modes will be available: Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and a custom My Mode.
Interior
The inside features a large sunroof, plush upholstery, and a 33-inch curved display that combines the touchscreen and instrument cluster in one glass piece. Google’s Android operating system, which comes pre-installed on the Optiq, includes Maps, Play Store, and an AI voice assistant.
But what about Android Auto? While many have stated that the absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto could hurt Optiq sales, General Motors is making a bold assumption that it won’t be a deal breaker.
Pricing and Competition
Optiq’s pricing may compensate for any UI option limitations. The $54,000 compact electric SUV will compete with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV 6 and Tesla Model Y AWD.
There will be two trim levels for the Cadillac Optiq: Luxury and Sport, and it will go on sale in late autumn. Additionally, the Escalade IQ and Vistiq, two additional Cadillac EVs, will shortly join it. The automaker will sell the new EV in four other international markets in addition to the US and Europe.
