Cadillac is making significant strides in its electric vehicle lineup with the introduction of the 2025 Optiq Sport and the 2026 Vistiq Sport, each positioned to cater to different segments of the luxury SUV market. While the Optiq targets the compact luxury SUV segment with a focus on value and design, the Vistiq aims for the three-row luxury SUV space, emphasizing powerful performance and a high feature-per-dollar value.

The 2025 Cadillac Optiq Sport presents itself as a solid compact luxury SUV, boasting a classy and modern design that looks more expensive than its sub-$60,000 price tag. Its interior features an almost Scandinavian appearance, highlighted by a floating 33-inch screen, upper door panels and dashboard covered in interesting woven cloth made from recycled materials, and real metal accents. Performance-wise, the Optiq Sport is equipped with dual electric motors, delivering a combined 300 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. It achieves 0-60 mph in a satisfying 5.5 seconds, which, while not excessively quick like some high-performance EVs, is quicker than many non-sporty compact luxury SUVs. The driving experience prioritizes smoothness and quietude, devoid of typical internal-combustion engine noises. Its ride quality is firm but expertly tuned for refinement, maintaining a flat body through corners and offering eager handling with a fixed suspension setup. Braking performance is average, with a 124-foot stop from 60 mph, but stands out with excellent driver-selectable regenerative braking modes that allow for one-pedal driving. The Optiq Sport offers an EPA estimated range of 302 miles, though a 75-mph Road Trip Range test yielded 235 miles. Its DC fast-charging rate of 150 kW is described as so-so, adding 119 miles of range in 30 minutes. Priced competitively with uplevel, gas-fed counterparts like the Lexus RX, Lincoln Nautilus, and Audi Q5, the Optiq provides gas-free satisfaction without a higher sticker price or unnecessary power.

Moving to the larger end of the spectrum, the 2026 Cadillac Vistiq Sport emerges as an enticing three-row electric luxury SUV. It comes standard with a powerful 615-horsepower dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, generating 650 lb-ft of torque, enabling a near-instant 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.4 seconds. The Vistiq's drive modes offer a discernible difference, allowing drivers to unleash full power or enjoy restrained acceleration. While it delivers the expected luxury SUV experience—moderately quiet and isolated from road imperfections—it faces some criticisms. Its steering is noted as excessively slow, making parking lot maneuvers cumbersome, though higher trims (Premium Luxury and Platinum) offer four-wheel steering to alleviate this. Braking performance is ordinary, with a 126-foot stop from 60 mph, and track testing revealed issues with overheating brakes and clanking noises during repeated stops. The Vistiq provides a consistent EPA range of 300 to 305 miles across all trims, with a 70-mph Road-Trip Range of 265 miles. However, its DC fast-charging speed is slow, adding only 120 miles in 30 minutes, which may make long road trips cumbersome. Home charging is quicker, with standard 11.5 kW and available 19.2 kW. Inside, the Vistiq offers a well-executed interior with a high features-per-dollar value, including standard Super Cruise, a 23-speaker AKG sound system, and a dual-panel sunroof. Noted issues include distracting reflections on the windshield and less comfortable headrests due to integrated speakers. Practicality includes three rows of seating (seven- or six-passenger configurations), with good third-row features but a compromised high floor and limited cargo space (15.2 cubic feet behind the third row) compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator and Rivian R1S, as it lacks a frunk. Despite these first-model-year drawbacks, the Vistiq is considered a solid start and a compelling option, particularly given its competitive pricing against similarly equipped gas SUVs.

In summary, both the 2025 Cadillac Optiq Sport and 2026 Cadillac Vistiq Sport underscore Cadillac’s strategic push into the electric SUV market. The Optiq delivers a refined compact luxury experience with competitive pricing and excellent design, while the Vistiq offers powerful three-row versatility and a wealth of standard features, albeit with some initial refinements needed in steering, fast-charging, and cargo practicality. Both models showcase Cadillac’s commitment to providing distinct electric luxury options for diverse consumer needs.