Cadillac Optiq Revealed As Lyriq's Smaller Sibling

• Cadillac's smallest EV yet
• Slots into compact luxury crossover segment
• Expected to be based on Ultium platform
• Pricing and further details coming in 2024

Three years after we discovered that Cadillac was plotting a new EV called the Optiq, it's finally been revealed as a compact luxury SUV to slot in below the mid-size Lyriq. Very few details have been shared by the automaker at this early stage, but with the Lyriq starting at $57,195 and the upcoming Escalade IQ expected to be far pricier than that, it's good to see that Cadillac is bringing in a more attainable EV.

Logic dictates that the Optiq will be built on the same Ultium platform as the Chevrolet Equinox EV. Being a compact model, the two should be similar in size, but the Optiq's positioning as a luxury model will inflate its starting price.

The base front-wheel-drive Equinox EV has a single electric motor producing 210 horsepower, while the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive models make up to 290 hp. It's reasonable to expect similar outputs from the Optiq, with the quickest models accomplishing an estimated sub-six-second 0-60 sprint.

The Optiq's battery specs are unknown, but if it matches the Equinox EV, a 300-mile range is within reach. With DC fast charging, the Chevy can add 70 miles of range in ten minutes. Since General Motors joined an array of automakers that will switch to the North American Charging Standard (NACS) used by Tesla, charging the Optiq shouldn't be an issue.

The Optiq has a stylish, modern design that shares some similarities with other Cadillacs, including the grille and the dramatic vertical daytime running lights. It's not quite as futuristic as the Lyriq, but in the orange hue pictured here, the Optiq looks great. Flush-fitting door handles and 21-inch wheels are equipped to the model seen here.