Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins, www.AutomotiveRhythms.com
As luxury automakers continue introducing new electric vehicles with stately designs, advanced innovation, and increased battery range, Cadillac is undoubtedly atop the division with an extensive roster of athletic performers. The latest recruit, dubbed the OPTIQ, enters the draft with 302 miles of range, a dual motor AWD powertrain, Super Cruise technology, the GM EV Battery Platform, and a Dolby Atmos audio system.
Also, don’t forget that you can get discounted new car pricing with a free quote through qualified local dealer partners.
Remarkably, Cadillac offers seven EVs for its diverse clientele: OPTIQ, LYRIQ, LYRIQ-V, VISTIQ, ESCALADE IQ, ESCALADE IQL, and CELESTIQ. The IQ label represents the American luxury brand’s strategic move to name-based products for its EV range. This pivot is in unison with nature, people, and machines. For instance, OPTIQ is enthused by the optical relationship between color, form, and light. Yet, the luxury division of General Motors is not renouncing gas engines altogether; leadership is just preparing for the future as global warming, renewable energy, and climate change remain important topics of discussion in the mobility sector.
The highly-impressive 2025 Cadillac OPTIQ will be sold in more than ten global markets including those with lefthand driving. With two distinct trims to choose from, Luxury and Sport, MSRP starts at $54,000 including destination fees. Cadillac owners of the new EV crossover can expect 20 standard safety systems, a 33” diagonal 9K resolution display that integrates Google built-in infotainment (Google Maps, Google Assistant, etc.), and standard Dolby Atmos software that powers the custom-tuned 19-speaker AKG audio system. Atmos is a meticulously composed technique between the artist and the mixer that creates a 3D listening experience. The engineer determines where specific sounds are actualized, like where to position the guitar. 93% of Billboard’s top artists boast songs in Atmos including Bob Marley’s “Legend.” You need Amazon Music, Apple Music, or Tidal to stream Dolby Atmos as they unfortunately have no partnership with Spotify.
Visibly, the OPTIQ’s illuminating “Cadillac crest grille” is lower and more youthful, signature, vertical LED headlamps and a 4-taillamp strategy accentuate the design flow, and a panoramic fixed-glass roof with a power shade brings natural energy into the cabin. Specific design elements are simultaneously functional for increased wind resistance including 20” aerodynamic alloy rims, low rolling resistance Continental CrossContact all-season tires, diffusers, and a vented rear spoiler.
“Cadillac has always defined American luxury, and OPTIQ is an example of how our bold, innovative spirit is propelling us into the EV future,” said John Roth, vice president, Global Cadillac. “Over the past five years, Cadillac has welcomed approximately 1 million new customers to the family globally. OPTIQ will be an important gateway to attract luxury EV intenders to Cadillac as we look to offer a fully electric portfolio by the end of the decade.”
Behind the wheel, the OPTIQ moves in a straight line with vigor and maneuvers around bends like running backs cutting through defenses thanks to AWD torque vectoring. Its performance is so stellar that you can easily compare the engineering to that of BMW’s highly-respected IX. An 85 kWh battery sends current to the two motors which produce 300-horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. A left paddle on the steering wheel slows down the vehicle without the need to brake while creating Regen on Demand. One-Pedal Driving similarly regenerates energy for the battery. This technology allows you to drive and brake with just the acceleration pedal. Drive Modes consist of Sport, Tour, Snow/Ice, and My/Mode for customized vehicle mannerisms depending on road and weather conditions. Cadillac states that 79 miles of range can be restored in roughly 10 minutes using DC fast charging. Though, most EV owners will install a Level 2 charger in their homes for convenience and efficiency. Additionally, Vehicle-to-Home charging is possible if you purchase the needed equipment from GM Energy. Yet, this will cost you thousands of dollars. Lastly, Cadillac’s Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology is provided with a complimentary 3-year OnStar Super Cruise plan. I choose to drive my vehicles rather than let them drive me. The choice is yours in today’s high-tech mobility world.
The OPTIQ’s Awake Conscious Design interior commingles technology with textile door trim from recycled materials like polyester yawn. Upgradable PaperWood veneer consists of equal parts of recycled newspaper and Tulipwood. The front seats are bolstered for sporty comfort, ventilated, and massage you in times of need. No starter button is required since the EV ignites when it syncs with the key upon cabin entry. A floating center console allows for more storage and 126-color dual-zone ambient lighting sets your driving temperament, which should be relaxing, engaged, and dialed in from the OPTIQ’s laundry list of amenities.
Monarch Orange, Black Raven, Coastal Blue Metallic, Nimbus Metallic, and Radiant Red Tintcoat are a few color options to express your distinct EV personality. When you walk up to your new electric ride a choreographed sequence of illumination begins from the headlamps and grille and continues around the OPTIQ’s sleek physique.
As you can see, Cadillac is expanding and ascending in the all-electric luxury automotive market. With its deep roster and historic foundation, the brand truly caters to every type of auto consumer. As such, this is not your father’s or mother’s Cadillac.
