Cadillac Optiq AWD

Overview

Cadillac is crashing the premium electric SUV party with the all-new Optiq AWD, its new entry point into the EV world. Slotting just below the larger Lyriq, this stylish crossover aims squarely at European rivals by blending sharp American design with impressive practicality. The standard dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration promises confident handling in all conditions. While official European pricing is still under wraps, the Optiq is positioned to be a highly competitive option for families wanting a dose of luxury, tech, and significant road presence without a stratospheric price tag.

What's New for 2025?

Everything! The 2025 Optiq is a brand-new nameplate for Cadillac, marking a major step in its global electric ambitions. It’s built on GM’s versatile Ultium platform, a dedicated EV architecture that underpins its impressive interior space and performance characteristics. This model introduces Cadillac's latest design language and advanced tech to a more accessible segment. For 2025, it arrives fully-formed, bringing a massive 33-inch cabin screen, Google Built-in infotainment, and a comprehensive suite of safety features as standard kit right out of the box.

Design & Exterior

The Optiq is a real head-turner, looking like a leaner, more athletic version of its big brother, the Lyriq. It boasts Cadillac's signature vertical lighting signatures and a stunning Black Crystal grille panel that features a choreographed lighting sequence to greet you. It’s a substantial machine, measuring 4820 mm long and 1644 mm high, giving it proper road presence. The AWD trim rides on stylish 20-inch alloy wheels, and its sleek, fastback-style roofline gives it a sporty profile that stands out in a crowded market.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a seriously high-tech and spacious cabin. The undisputed star of the show is the massive, curved 33-inch LED display with 9K resolution, which elegantly combines the driver’s display and central infotainment. It runs Google Built-in for seamless navigation and voice commands. Cargo space is a massive win, offering a huge 744-litre boot that expands to a van-like 1603 litres with the rear seats folded. The only slight miss is the lack of a frunk for extra storage.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Optiq AWD has enough poke to keep things interesting, hitting 100 km/h from a standstill in just 6.1 seconds. This punch comes from a dual-motor setup delivering 224 kW and 480 Nm of torque directly to all four wheels for superb traction. The combination of a Permanent Magnet motor at the front and an Induction Motor at the rear is a clever trick for optimising both power and efficiency. Expect a smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride, with selectable one-pedal driving modes making city traffic a breeze.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powered by a sizable 85 kWh usable battery pack, the Optiq AWD delivers a fantastic Green Cars Compare calculated 'real-world' range estimate of 462 km. It’s impressively efficient too, achieving 5.44 km/kWh. When it's time to plug in, the standard CCS Type 2 port supports AC charging up to 11.5 kW for an overnight top-up. On the road, DC fast charging maxes out at 150 kW, which can add around 125 km of range in just 10 minutes. It also includes handy Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While an official Euro NCAP rating is still pending, the Optiq comes loaded with safety gear. Standard on the AWD trim is a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including Forward Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring with Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Keep Assist. For those wanting the ultimate in high-tech assistance, Cadillac’s renowned Super Cruise hands-free driving system is available as a fantastic optional extra for relaxed motorway cruising.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Cadillac provides solid peace of mind with its warranty package. Owners can expect a comprehensive vehicle warranty, typically covering 3 years or 100,000 km in European markets. Crucially, the heart of the car – the Ultium battery and drive units – is covered by an extensive 8-year/160,000 km warranty, which includes a guarantee against significant degradation. As a new model on a maturing platform, reliability is expected to be strong, aligning with the premium experience Cadillac is aiming for with its new wave of electric vehicles.