Cadillac revealed an all-new electric SUV that’s joining its lineup, the 2025 Optiq.

This one is the automaker’s entry-level EV, joining Cadillac’s EV lineup that already includes the Lyriq, Escalada IQ and Celestiq, as well as the Vistiq, which will be introduced next year.

“With four consecutive years of record-setting sales, Cadillac has demonstrated its strong market presence in Canada,” said Mike Speranzini, managing director, Cadillac Canada, in a news release. “Cadillac has always defined luxury, and Optiq – Cadillac’s first compact luxury EV SUV, is an example of how our bold innovative spirit is propelling us into the EV future. Over the past five years, Cadillac has welcomed about 15,000 new Canadian customers. With its sporty and athletic design, Optiq will serve as 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.”

Cadillac says the new EV has an estimated driving range of 482 kilometres on a full charge, comes standard with dual-motor all-wheel drive, comes standard with Super Cruise capability but a subscription is required and features bold design.

Cadillac also says the Optiq has segment best cargo capacity and second-row spaciousness.

The SUV sits on the automaker’s Ultium Platform and utilizes its Ultium Drive units. The SUV also wears low-rolling-resistance tires, helping it achieve its estimated driving range.

The Optiq has a wheelbase that’s six inches shorter than the Lyriq, making it more agile as well.

“With near-instantaneous torque, Optiq delivers a unique and spirited driving experience. The Ultium Drive system allows us to package enough muscle into a smaller package to provide a thrilling performance, delivering a sensation of isolated precision,” said John Cockburn, chief engineer, in the release.

Here are some highlights, as provided by the automaker:

• The SUV includes an 85-kilowatt-hour battery pack with a standard dual motor all-wheel-drive propulsion system with estimated 300 hp and 354 lb.-ft. of instant torque.
• DC fast charging can add up to 112 kilometres of range in about 10 minutes based on General Motors estimates (if using a minimum 150kW DCFC, which GM points out is extremely limited).
• Regen On Demand – A driver-controlled braking feature that allows the driver to slow down or stop the SUV with a dedicated, pressure-sensitive paddle located on the steering wheel.
• One-pedal driving allows the driver to slow down and stop the vehicle using only the accelerator under most driving conditions. The system also converts kinetic energy from the Optiq’s forward momentum into electricity, which is stored in the battery pack for future use.
• A dual-level charge cord allows the driver to plug into an appliance-style four-pronged outlet (professional installation required) or a standard three-pronged outlet.
• Optiq gives drivers the opportunity to switch between several drive modes, including Tou used for everyday driving, Sport for enhanced road driving and improved steering, Snow/Ice to prevent wheel spin and My Mode,which personalizes the driving experience including braking responsiveness, enhanced steering feel.

Cadillac calls the interior high tech, welcoming and connected.

Technology highlights include:

• Segment best cargo capacity and second-row spaciousness.
• A 33-inch diagonal advanced LED display with 9K resolution projecting more than one billion colours.
• Standard Super Cruise capability (subscription required) driver assistance technology enabled by high-definition GPS mapping, driver attention system, lane changing capabilities, steering wheel light bar and route planning.
• Advanced radar, camera and ultrasonic sensor technology help provide drivers with enhanced views, sensing and monitoring of their surroundings in a variety of everyday driving scenarios.
• Standard safety and driver assistance technologies include adaptive cruise control, blind zone steering assist, enhanced automatic parking, and forward collision alert.
• Google built-in compatibility (subscription(s) required for full functionality) infotainment experience, featuring Google Maps and Google Assistant
• Standard 19-speaker AKG audio system with Dolby Atmos; supports 3D Surround Technology, consisting of custom-tuned speakers and amplifier content, providing an undistorted, nuanced listening experience.

The Optiq comes available in two trims, Luxury or Sport.

Production is expected to start this fall. The Optiq is expected to be available in 10 regions around the world. Pricing will be announced closer to start of production.