Cadillac Optiq-V vs Tesla Model Y: 519 HP Game-Changer

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is here, and it is not just a stylish electric vehicle — it is Cadillac’s newest attempt to shake up the high-performance electric game. Designed to take on the Tesla Model Y Performance, this compact luxury electric vehicle does not just compete on paper. It brings serious firepower with a dual-motor setup that delivers 519 horsepower. And with a 0 to 60 miles per hour acceleration time of just 3.5 seconds, it is not just fast for an electric vehicle — it is fast, period.

While Cadillac fans might remember the Lyriq-V that launched earlier, the Optiq-V is a bit more compact and slightly less powerful, but that does not stop it from standing out. One major reason it makes headlines is that it will be the very first General Motors electric vehicle equipped with the North American Charging Standard port. That means Tesla Superchargers are fair game — a huge win for convenience.

Cadillac has engineered this model for real driving excitement. They are calling it a “canyon carver,” and they have given it the tools to back that up. The adaptive suspension is finely tuned, the tires have been developed specifically for this trim, and there is even a V-Mode you can activate right from the steering wheel. This gives drivers instant access to their favorite performance settings.

To add more control, the Optiq-V includes Launch Control and Competitive Mode, both focused on maximizing traction and agility. When it comes time to slow things down, Brembo brakes with red or blue calipers featuring the V-Series badge are standard. It is clear this vehicle is not just about speed — it is about the full performance experience.

Even with the upgraded motors, Cadillac kept the 85 kilowatt-hour battery pack, so you get an estimated 275 miles of range. That is slightly less than the base Optiq, but Cadillac makes up for it with faster charging. Just 10 minutes on a compatible charger can add about 70 miles of range.

Starting at $68,795, the Optiq-V is priced significantly above the previous Model Y Performance which ended production in March. But Cadillac is betting on loyal buyers and fans of the V-Series looking for something different.