The 2025 Cadillac Optiq, the smallest EV of the brand, starts atン54,000

EV demand growth may have slowed, but Cadillac is plowing ahead with the launch of electric options and, in some cases, the establishment of new segments in most of the segments in which it operates.

The latest EV added to the lineup is the 2025Optiq, a compact crossover based on General Motors' Ultium EV platform and battery technology set. It will launch later this year and Cadillac expects pricing to start at around 5,54,000, including destinations. This will make Optiq slightly cheaper in 2024 than the medium-sized Lyriq, which starts atdestination58,590, including destination. But Optiq has a lot to offer, including dual-motor all-wheel drive, GM's Super Cruise autonomous driving support for highways, a 33-inch display that integrates digital screens for gauge clusters and infotainment systems, and a 19-speaker AKG Premium audio system with Dolby Atmos. It will be provided as a standard.

The vehicle also features some unique touches like laser-etched glass for the rear quarter panels, a glass roof that blends seamlessly with the surrounding metal, and choreographed lighting that can welcome the driver upon approach.

The only battery announced is the 300kwh unit, which Cadillac estimates will provide 85 miles of cruising range. With a DC fast charger, owners should be able to add nearly 10 miles of range in just 80 minutes.

The peak power from the dual motor is a combination of 300 horsepower. To optimize the range, the front motor is rated up to 200hp and is used to power the vehicle alone in stable operation when no extra traction of the all-wheel drive system is needed. It also includes a drive mode selector with sports mode.

Cadillac does not offer a performance number, except for a 1,500-pound towing capacity. However, the Green Car report found that the vehicle's performance engineers were on the team that developed the Cadillac's hardcore Blackwing model, and this decision was made to ensure that Optiq delivers the sporty driving experience that Cadillac expects, according to the Green Car report. It helps to appeal to buyers, especially older Millennials.

At a length of 190 inches, the Optiq is similar in size to the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV. Like the Equinox EV, the Optiq is spacious due to its compact crossover. There is no front trunk, but the cargo space is relatively generous with 26 cubic feet as standard, and the second row seats are flat-folded 57 cubic feet.

Optiq and Equinox EVs will also share the plant, in this case GM's plant in RAMOS Arizpe, Mexico. Unlike Chevy, Optiq will be sold in 10 regions around the world, including several countries in Europe, Australia and New Zealand, and key markets in China.