We drive the 2025 Cadillac Optiq to find out if it’s the BEST compact electric SUV?
CHAPTERS
0:00 Intro
0:26 Exterior
1:55 Trims
2:14 Under The Hood
2:40 Range and Charging
3:00 Cargo Space
3:51 Wheels and Tires
4:04 Pice
4:41 Rear Seat
5:21 Interior and Tech
10:05 Driving
16:05 Verdict
This is the 2025 Cadillac Optiq, which is basically the little sibling of the Lyriq. It’s Cadillac’s tiniest electric vehicle, packing a punch with its tech and handling all wrapped up in a fresh SUV design. In a nutshell, it’s like the electric version of the base XT5 in Cadillac’s range. The overall length is almost the same, with the Optiq measuring 189.8 inches, making it just 0.2 inches longer than the XT5. However, the EV boasts a 116.3-inch wheelbase, which is four inches longer.
When you stack it up against the Audi Q4 e-tron, which has a shorter wheelbase of 108.7 inches and a length of 180.6 inches, the Optiq stands out. But that longer wheelbase isn’t just for looks; it allows for the installation of an 85-kWh battery, the largest in its class.
Exterior
There are some really cool design elements here. You’ll see that the Optiq’s windshield and D-pillar are both angled quite a bit, which gives it a sporty vibe. Everything comes together nicely, including the etched body panel between the C and D-pillars. This design is a nod to the updated Cadillac badge. Up front, the Cadillac’s signature grille is loaded with tons of LED lights, and that massive Cadillac emblem is so bright it might just dazzle drivers coming towards it.
Trims
The 2025 Cadillac OPTIQ comes in four different trims: Luxury 1, Luxury 2, Sport 1, and Sport 2. Each trim offers a distinct mix of features, technology, and design, giving buyers the chance to personalize their OPTIQ experience.
Under The Hood
Beneath the surface, there are two electric motors, one located at each end. The front motor is a permanent-magnet synchronous motor that’s always working, while the rear motor is an induction type that kicks in when needed, especially during acceleration. The Optiq delivers 300 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque at its peak. While it doesn’t quite match the Audi, it’s still a solid performance. It goes from 0 to 60 in 5.7 seconds.
Range and Charging
The range is a very respectable 302 miles from the 85 kWh battery. The only downside is a Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate of only 150 kW.
Wheels and Tires
This tester has the optional 21-inch black alloy wheels as part of the Onyx package. They are 275/40s wearing Continental Cross Contacts.
2025 Cadillac Optiq Numbers
BASE PRICE: $55,595
PRICE AS TESTED: $62,310
VEHICLE LAYOUT: Front and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, SUV
FRONT MOTOR: Permanent-magnet AC
REAR MOTOR: Induction AC
COMBINED POWER: 300 hp
COMBINED TORQUE: 354 lb-ft
BATTERY PACK: Liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 85.0 kWh
PEAK DC FAST CHARGE RATE: 150 kW
TRANSMISSION: 1-speed direct-drive
CURB WEIGHT: 5,200 lb
RANGE: 302 miles
0-60 MPH: 5.7 seconds
EPA CITY/HWY/COMB: 111/94/103 mpge
CARGO SPACE: 26 cubic feet, 60 cubic feet with rear seat folded
PROS: Beautiful exterior, super smooth ride, Atmos is the bees knees
CONS: Soft handling, lacks thrills