Why on earth would you spend an estimated US$ 54,000 to get a Cadillac Optiq when the Tesla Model Y Performance is available now for US$ 51,490 before incentives? That’s an uncomfortable question, but one we’re left asking as the Optiq is likely facing an uphill battle. The problem isn’t just Tesla as Cadillac’s own Lyriq begins at US$ 58,590 and that isn’t much more than the brand’s entry-level EV. So what does the US-spec Optiq have to offer? A standard dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing an estimated 300 hp and 479 Nm of torque. The model also rides on the Ultium platform and features an 85 kWh battery pack, which promises to deliver around 483 km of range. Cadillac was coy on additional details, but said the model can get up to 127 km of range in about 10 minutes using a DC fast charger.

Cadillac didn’t have much else to say about the crossover, but it features a Lyriq-like design with a black crystal grille, a choreographed lighting sequence, and a fixed glass roof. The model also sports flush-mounted door handles and acoustic laminated rear quarter glass with a unique design. In terms of size, the Optiq measures 4,820 mm long, 2,126 mm wide, and 1,644 mm tall with a wheelbase that spans 2,954 mm. Cadillac seems to have strangely rounded off those numbers, but the company claimed the wheelbase is 152 mm shorter than on the Lyriq. However, if the Chinese-spec model is any indication, the actual difference might be a more modest 140 mm.

 

Questionable numbers aside, the Optiq has a Lyriq-inspired interior with a 33-inch display that features Google built-in. The model also has a 19-speaker AKG audio system as well as best-in-class “cargo capacity and second-row spaciousness.” We can also see metallic accents as well as a mix of leather and fabric upholstery. The model comes standard with Super Cruise as well as an assortment of other driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise control, forward collision alert, and blind zone steering assist.

The 2025 Optiq will go into production this fall and be offered in Luxury and Sport guise. We can expect to learn more about the US-spec model closer to launch, but the crossover will be sold in Europe as well as China, where it debuted exactly one month ago.