Cadillac is continuing its transition to an all-electric lineup, albeit possibly slower than previously planned. With the XT4 being recently discontinued, more eyes have been drawn to its indirect successor, the Optiq. And now, we have our closest look at an incoming performance-oriented version – the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V.
The images are courtesy of Reddit user achapm, who posted them on the r/CadillacOptiq subreddit. The photos show an Optiq-V in a bright red hue that’s similar if not identical to Velocity Red parked next to a “regular” (non-V) Optiq in black. Interestingly, the vibrant V model is devoid any “V” badging, though there is a “V” logo etched into one of the spokes of each wheel.
Although the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V observed in these photos doesn’t have production badging, there are several exterior styling cues that separate it from the regular Optiq. For starters, the Optiq-V replaces all of its chrome hardware with either gloss black or “black chrome” (Galvano Chrome?) pieces. Additionally, the front and rear ends also feature notable differences from the regular model.
From the front, astute onlookers will notice a much larger “grille” as well as a more aggressive front splitter. The rear end, meanwhile, features a set of tinted neutral-density upper tail lamps (the running lamps) along with an integrated rear diffuser at the lower fascia. The glass over the cargo area, meanwhile, features a set of Mondrian Accent etchings typically represented in logos of V-Series models.
Of course, the looks won’t be the only difference between the Optiq and Optiq-V, as Cadillac has already confirmed that Cadillac has engineered a package that prioritizes “precision, a dynamic suspension and tight steering for an exhilarating driving experience.”
Notably, the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V – along with the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V – will usher in the fifth-generation of the luxury marque’s famed V-Series portfolio. The Lyriq will have the distinct honor of being the luxury marque’s first electric vehicle to wear the “V” badge. In V-form, the Lyriq is expected to pump out 615 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, which is an extra 115 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque over the dual-motor non-V Lyriq. The boost in power results in a significantly lower zero-to-sixty time, which falls from 4.6 seconds to 3.3 seconds.
A proportionate increase in the Cadillac Optiq-V over the regular Optiq would yield an increase from 300 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque to roughly 350 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, though we anticipate a horsepower rating of at least 400 horses.
Regardless of what the power figures turn out to be in the Optiq-V, we’re certain that Cadillac will succeed in delivering a product that’s deserving of the V-Series designation.
