Cadillac expanding its NZ line up with Optiq and Vistiq in 2026 

Cadillac has confirmed it will be adding two additional models to its lineup with the Optiq and Vistiq.

These are described as ‘bookends’ to the Cadillac lineup locally where the Optiq will be a new entry-point in terms of size while the Vistiq is a large, three-row SUV sitting at the top. And obviously they’re both electric. 

These are built right hand drive from the factory in the US and when they arrive in 2026, they will join the Lyriq and Lyriq V in the showroom. It is said that both these models have been planned and engineered to be built right and drive from there inception. 

Read more Lyriq-V – Quickest Cadillac ever is coming to NZ 

It’s all part of Cadillac’s global push into the luxury segment and these models will also be available in other RHD markets like Japan and Australia. 

Cadillac says that the Vistiq, which it calls a stunning three-row SUV, will ‘unlock luxurious electric motoring for larger families’. 

The Optiq is suggested as a new entry point sitting beneath the Lyriq although Cadillac is stressing that point in terms of its size. Obviously no price is to hand just yet, those details will be revealed closer to launch in 2026, but perhaps the new Optiq won’t be a bargain Cadillac. 

According to Jess Bala, managing director General Motors Australia and New Zealand; “these exciting new models will double Cadillac’s lineup appealing to an even broader range of customers and usage requirements and allowing even more people to experience this incredible brand for themselves.”

The Optiq is 4.8m long and 1.6m in height so it’s not exactly small, and not too far off the Lyriq which is just shy of 5m long. The Optiq features a dual motor all-wheel drive powertrain with 224kW and 480Nm. It has an 85kWh battery and a 480km range. It’s said to deliver ‘class-defining cargo capacity and rear row passenger room’. 

The Vistiq will be a bit of a monster measuring 5222mm long, 2.2 m wide and 1.8m in height. Apparently this “ensures the luxury of space for all passengers while maintaining the brand’s commitment to a spirited drive”. 

It too has dual motor all-wheel drive with up to 458kW and 880Nm along with adaptive damping control with optional Air Ride adaptive suspension too. US specs state it has a 102kWh battery pack and offers 480km of range.

Expect more details, including arrival time and pricing, later in the year. In the meantime we still wait for the arrival of the Lyriq, which can’t be too far away now. Hopefully.