Cadillac Optiq AWD

Overview

Say hello to the 2025 Cadillac Optiq First Edition, Caddy's stylish new contender aiming to shake up the premium compact electric SUV scene! This all-wheel-drive stunner is packed with tech and marks Cadillac's global EV expansion. While European pricing and full availability are still under wraps, the Optiq First Edition is geared to impress with its blend of luxury and electric punch, targeting rivals like the Audi Q4 e-tron. It’s designed to be Cadillac’s entry-point EV, making electric luxury more accessible.

What's New for 2025?

The Optiq is an entirely fresh face for 2025, Cadillac's shiny new toy in the electric playground! As the brand's most attainable EV offering, particularly this "First Edition" launch model, it brings GM's Ultium platform goodness to a wider audience. Expect the latest Cadillac design language, a high-tech interior featuring a massive curved display, and a suite of advanced driver aids. It’s not an update; it’s a whole new chapter for Cadillac's electric ambitions, slotting in below the larger Lyriq.

Design & Exterior

The Optiq First Edition turns heads with its sleek, modern SUV silhouette, clearly borrowing cues from its bigger Lyriq sibling. It boasts Cadillac's signature vertical lighting elements and an expressive grille, giving it a real presence. This specific trim will likely sport unique alloy wheels and distinctive badging. Dimensionally, it measures a substantial 4825 mm in length, around 1913 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and stands 1650 mm tall, ensuring it looks the business on the road. It’s a sharp-dressed EV, no doubt about it.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Optiq First Edition, and you're greeted by a cabin that screams modern luxury. A massive, curved 33-inch diagonal LED display, similar to the Lyriq's, dominates the dashboard, handling both infotainment and driver instruments with 9K resolution. Expect premium materials and a focus on comfort for its five passengers. Cargo-wise, you get a generous 737 litres in the boot, expanding to a whopping 1614 litres with the rear seats folded. Sadly, there's no frunk for extra bits and bobs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are, of course, standard.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Optiq First Edition isn't just a pretty face; it's got the go to match! With its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, featuring a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor at the front and an AC Induction Motor at the rear, it packs a combined punch of 224 kW and 480 Nm of torque. This translates to a brisk 0-100 km/h sprint in just 6.1 seconds. Expect a composed and comfortable ride, with selectable regen modes including one-pedal driving for that smooth EV experience. Top speed is a respectable 182 km/h.

Range, Battery & Charging

Underneath, the Optiq First Edition houses an 85 kWh usable battery pack (89 kWh nominal), delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 462 kilometres – plenty for most journeys. Efficiency is rated at a decent 5.44 km/kWh. For charging, it uses the European standard CCS Type 2 port. At home or the office, the standard 11.5 kW on-board AC charger can juice it up fully in about 7.5 hours. On the go, DC fast charging maxes out at 150 kW, potentially adding over 120 km of range in just 10 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While Euro NCAP ratings are yet to be announced for this new model, Cadillac is loading the Optiq First Edition with a comprehensive suite of safety tech. Expect standard features like Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Blind Zone Steering Assist. Cadillac's highly-regarded Super Cruise hands-free driving assistance system will likely be available, possibly even standard on this launch edition, making long hauls a breeze. Rear Park Assist and an HD Rear Vision Camera are also part of the package.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Though specific European warranty details for the Optiq First Edition are pending its full EU launch, Cadillac typically offers competitive coverage. Expect a comprehensive vehicle warranty around 3 years/100,000 km and a battery warranty of 8 years/160,000 km, covering degradation. Electric vehicles generally boast lower maintenance costs thanks to fewer moving parts. As an all-new model, long-term reliability is yet to be established, but the Ultium platform underpinning it is GM's core EV technology, designed for durability.