The Optiq is Cadillac’s new entry-level EV that’ll be sold in Europe

Cadillac has revealed the production version of the all-new Optiq. Silly spelling aside, that might not sound all that interesting to those of us this side of the Atlantic, but wait a second Mr Yoo-ro-pean, because the Optiq may actually be deserving of your attention.

“As part of Cadillac’s all-electric entry into Europe, we are excited to host Optiq’s debut in Paris,” said GM Europe boss Jaclyn McQuaid. “We look forward to providing specifications and opening sales for Optiq later this year.”

Yep, this new EV SUV will be on sale on our continent later in 2024. Hoorah!

Now, we very much liked the bigger brother Cadillac Lyriq, and the Optiq is based on the same GM Ultium platform. We’re told a dual motor all-wheel drive setup will be standard fit with around 300bhp and 354lb ft of torque on tap.

There will be an 85kWh battery pack under the floor that should provide around 300 miles of range, and while we’re not given any specific charging details Cadillac does say you should be able to add 79 miles of range in “about 10 minutes”.

The exterior styling is what we’d describe as ‘distinctive’ with those vertical LED headlights and the illuminated ‘Crystal Grille’ up front. Inside there’s a patterned accent fabric that’s made from 100 per cent recycled materials, plus a ‘PaperWood’ veneer that’s apparently made from ‘equal parts of tulip wood and recycled newspaper’. Interesting. Oh, and there’s also a humungous 33in screen to provide the dial display and infotainment.

GM’s Super Cruise driver assistance tech will be standard and there’s inbuilt Google Maps and Google Assistant in the infotainment as well as a panoramic glass roof up above. There’s also a fancy 19-speaker AKG audio system and Dolby Atmos as standard.

Those that fancy an Optiq over things like the BMW iX3 or the new electric Porsche Macan will get a choice of ‘Luxury’ and ‘Sport’ trims, with prices set to kick off at around $54,000 in the US.

Production will begin later this 'fall', although Cadillac may have to start translating things like that if the Optiq is to take down its premium German competition over here in Europe.