2025 Cadillac Optiq: More Than a Fancy Equinox EV

While the automotive industry is tapping the brakes on electrification, brands like Cadillac are pressing harder on the accelerator, phasing out internal combustion models in favour of an already well-rounded lineup of battery-powered crossovers.

In addition to the Lyriq, the Escalade IQ, and the new Vistiq, the most prestigious division of the GM empire is now banking on the Optiq— an upscale cousin of the Chevrolet Equinox EV. And as Cadillac’s entry-level electric crossover, the Optiq has the challenging task of convincing those contemplating a luxurious, yet electrified lifestyle.

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On that note, the price gap between a fully loaded Equinox EV and the most affordable Optiq isn’t all that significant. In fact, less than $10,000 separates the two Ultium-based siblings. While the Cadillac’s product quality is clearly superior to that of its bowtie-branded counterpart, consumers are ultimately left with a compelling choice between prestige and pragmatism.

Let’s find out, over the course of a road test, whether the Cadillac Optiq has what it takes to accelerate the brand’s electric shift.

Design: Efficiency Meets Elegance

The Optiq proudly asserts its luxury lineage with sharp lines, a backlit black grille, and signature vertical lighting at both ends. While many consumers are aware of the technical overlap between Chevrolet and Cadillac models, credit is due to Cadillac’s design department for creating a vehicle that looks nothing like the Equinox EV/Blazer EV duo.

One notable element of the tested Sport 1 version is its Monarch Orange exterior color, which pairs nicely with a contrasting black roof. Our test model wore 20-inch wheels, though 21-inch options are available for those wanting a bolder look.

A Familiar Interior

Aside from a few older models, nearly every recent Cadillac rolls out of the factory with a sweeping digital display that extends from the driver side A-pillar to the center of the dashboard. The Optiq, despite its entry-level status, still gets this massive digital feature. The visuals are sharp, and the touchscreen interface in the middle is very responsive. Unfortunately, one must scramble through the menus to activate one-pedal driving—a simple button would’ve been more intuitive. The same goes for the headlights, although once you select “AUTO,” you can forget about it.

Don't look for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, because they are not available—GM is relying instead on integrated Google technology, which includes familiar apps like Google Maps and Google Play, among others.

To keep the analogic vibe going, designers made sure to include a large rotary dial placed in front of a few haptic buttons and a volume knob. As for climate control, it’s handled via a row of buttons below the central air vents. On the steering wheel, additional haptic controls round out the driver’s everyday interface.

And since the Optiq has roughly the same footprint as the Equinox EV, interior space is impressive in both rows. Rear-seat passengers enjoy generous legroom, while the trunk offers average cargo volume for the segment—with the ability to fold down the rear seats for bulkier items. One minor drawback, just like in the Equinox EV: opening the front hood reveals only part of the powertrain. There’s no frunk. It would’ve been perfect for storing windshield washer fluid or a snow brush—but not in the Optiq, at least not yet. Maybe next time?

Sharper Driving Experience?

Until the Optiq-V arrives, the standard version is the only one available. And the lineup is straightforward: there is no front-wheel-drive Optiq. Cadillac only offers a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version. This powertrain delivers 300 horsepower and 354 ft-lb of torque, respectable numbers given the vehicle’s hefty weight (2,355 kg). Its 85-kWh lithium-ion battery offers an estimated 486 km of range, according to Natural Resources Canada.

The Optiq rides on GM’s Ultium platform like its siblings. And as expected, some driving traits are shared. The Optiq feels heavy on pavement, but the battery placement under the floor helps with balance and handling. It remains composed in both urban and highway settings, and ride comfort is excellent—thanks in part to the 20-inch wheels.

With light and precise steering, a soft suspension, and a powertrain that’s “adequate but not explosive,” the Optiq proves to be a very user-friendly daily driver. One-pedal driving is easy to modulate in the city, and the same goes for the Super Cruise hands-free driving system. We ate nearly 100 km of highway driving with minimal intervention during our highway test. In combined city/highway driving, our average energy consumption of 21.1 kWh/100 km (compared to 20.4 kWh/100 km per NRCan), which confirms NRCan’s estimates as quite accurate, and that the near-500 km range is realistic.

The Verdict

With the Optiq, Cadillac is aiming to make a bold statement. This compact electric crossover carries the brand’s DNA—but at a more approachable fee. Of course, the competition is fierce in this segment—think Volvo EX40, Genesis GV60, or even the Mini Countryman—but with its generous dimensions and advanced tech features, the Cadillac Optiq deserves a shot.

Top brass at Cadillac may be counting on the Celestiq sedan or the Escalade IQ SUV to boost the brand’s image, but it’s really vehicles like the Optiq that will help Cadillac win over electric vehicle enthusiasts.