Smooth Powertrain: The Cadillac Optiq impresses with its smooth power delivery, thanks to its dual electric motors—one at each axle. With a total output of 300 horsepower, it might not stand out on paper among luxury EVs, but that number belies the immediate, effortless driving experience it offers. “It’s quick, effortless, and immediate,” noted a Consumer Reports tester. What sets this vehicle apart is the instant torque that electric motors provide. Whether you apply gentle pressure or stomp on the accelerator, you’ll be greeted with a seamless burst of power. While the sensation of acceleration may taper off around 60 mph, there’s always reserve power available for quick maneuvers, especially in tighter situations on secondary roads.
One-Pedal Driving: Like many electric vehicles, the Optiq features a regenerative braking system that enhances its efficiency. This system allows for “one-pedal driving,” enabling drivers to control both acceleration and deceleration with the accelerator pedal. During testing, many drivers found the Optiq’s Normal mode of this feature to be highly intuitive, allowing for smooth driving experience with minimal need to interact with the brake pedal. As you reduce pressure on the accelerator, the vehicle gradually slows down, leading to a comfortable and controlled stop.
The Regen Paddle: A standout feature of the Optiq is the regenerative braking paddle located on the left side of the steering wheel. This intuitive addition allows drivers to actively engage the regenerative braking system without relying solely on the one-pedal driving mode. By pulling on this paddle, you can modulate how much regenerative braking force to apply, akin to a hand brake on a bicycle. This method has its benefits—drivers often prefer it over one-pedal mode since it offers greater control without the element of surprise during deceleration.
Comfortable Ride: The Optiq doesn’t skimp on comfort. Its suspension smooths out typical road imperfections, absorbing bumps effectively and managing transverse ridges well. However, larger potholes can send noticeable jolts through the cabin, coupled with some suspension noise, which disrupts the otherwise luxurious ambiance. Despite these occasional rough patches, the vehicle maintains a controlled body and minimizes side-to-side rocking on undulating roads, an impressive feat for an SUV in this category.
Decent Handling: Although Cadillac intends to introduce a sportier version with the forthcoming Optiq V, the standard model is still capable on winding roads. Steering feels relatively natural, with good weight and controlled body roll. However, some testers found the steering to be vague, lacking the precise feedback that can enhance driver confidence. The Optiq’s heft becomes apparent around corners, which can dull the driving experience for some. Despite these minor drawbacks, it handles well enough for relaxed, casual driving.
Normal-Feeling Brake Pedal: One noticeable aspect of the Optiq is its brake pedal feel, which remains consistent and user-friendly, unlike some EVs that can present a spongy or overly-sensitive experience. Drivers appreciate the confidence that comes with a firm pedal that effectively regulates speed. The only quirk encountered was a potentially abrupt deceleration sensation as the vehicle approaches a stop, occurring at speeds of around 3 mph and slower. This characteristic can be somewhat jarring but is generally manageable.
Quiet Cabin: When it comes to cabin noise, the Optiq does quite well. It effectively minimizes road noise and ambient sounds. However, some drivers have expressed frustration over the inability to deactivate the artificial motor sounds that Cadillac incorporates into the cabin. While these sounds are mostly subtle and only noticeable during acceleration, the wind noise originating from the car’s prominent windshield pillars becomes significantly noticeable at highway speeds. Tire noise can also become evident over rough surfaces, which detracts slightly from the peaceful driving experience expected in a luxury vehicle.
Luxury Interior: Step inside the Optiq, and you’re greeted by a well-crafted interior, especially considering its $55,000 price tag. The materials chosen—such as a center console adorned with clear plastic over a carbon-fiber-like weave—exemplify Cadillac’s attention to detail. The use of fabric trim enhances its luxurious feel, and brushed-aluminum accents offer an understated elegance. While there are minor rough surfaces in some areas, the overall impression is that of a unique and well-assembled passenger environment, leaving occupants feeling comfortably cocooned amid a blend of style and functionality.
Super Cruise: One of the notable high-tech features of the Optiq is its standard Super Cruise system, GM’s advanced active driving assistance technology that supports hands-free driving on more than 400,000 miles of mapped roads across the U.S. and Canada. This sophisticated setup combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering assistance, using an array of sensors to monitor the driving environment. The system’s efficacy in maintaining lane position and coordinating acceleration and braking make long drives more relaxed and enjoyable. Importantly, Super Cruise employs an infrared camera to ensure drivers remain attentive, with warnings issued if the driver diverts their focus away from the road.