Ann Arbor, Michigan — Just over two years ago, Cadillac promised us an impressive range of electric vehicles. With last week’s launch of the Vistiq, we can say the loop is closed, at least for now.
General Motors’ luxury division now offers four fully electric SUVs (the others being the Lyriq, Optiq, and Escalade IQ), along with the high-end Celestiq sedan, which has just made its debut. While some automakers are approaching electrification more cautiously, Cadillac is going all-in.
It’s a make-or-break approach, as the saying goes. But one thing is certain: no matter what happens next, what Cadillac is delivering speaks volumes about quality, and the newcomer is no exception.
A Strong Signature
Visually, EVs often look different, especially up front, where the traditional grille, previously needed for engine cooling, is now unnecessary. As a result, automakers have been developing new front-end designs, with mixed results.
At Cadillac, the design approach has been successful across the EV lineup, and that hasn’t hurt the sales of existing models. In fact, the Lyriq accounted for 22% of Cadillac’s total sales in 2024.
The Vistiq adopts this design signature, along with styling cues from the Escalade IQ. Internally, Cadillac refers to it as the baby Escalade. Its dimensions are larger than the gas-powered XT6 it replaces—longer, taller, wider, and with a longer wheelbase.
The Vistiq comes standard with three rows of seating, which is a key selling point. It will appeal to buyers who need the space but don’t want to pay the premium for an Escalade IQ. That said, considering Cadillac’s clientele, the Lyriq may be enough for many. The Vistiq will have to work hard to carve out its own niche.
Trim Levels
The Vistiq will be available in four versions: Sport, Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Platinum. The first two trims start at $92,999, while the latter are priced at $110,999 and $117,499, respectively.
Subtle differences help distinguish them, starting with wheel size: 21-inch wheels on Sport and Luxury trims, and 22-inch wheels on Premium Luxury and Platinum. The latter can also be fitted with 23-inch wheels, though that might not be ideal given our crater-ridden Canadian roads.
A Peaceful Cabin
Once inside, you’re welcomed into an environment that radiates quality. The design team deserves credit for their excellent work. There are four seat colour options, various trim accents (including wood, carbon fibre, aluminum, and leather), and ambient lighting with up to 126 available colours. Everything is thoughtfully designed.
Yes, the front seats are heated and ventilated as standard. Yes, you can enjoy a massage while driving. Even entry-level models come well-equipped with heated second-row seats, five-zone climate control, a 23-speaker AKG audio system with Dolby Atmos, a two-section panoramic sunroof with a fixed third panel at the rear, and two wireless phone charging pads.
And yes, for those who care, the sound system is genuinely impressive. The listening experience is enhanced by the Vistiq’s quiet operation and excellent overall cabin insulation.
Premium Luxury and Platinum trims add even more, including air suspension, rear-wheel steering, augmented reality navigation, night vision, and Brembo brakes (Platinum only).
If you like to be pampered, the Vistiq will make you feel right at home.
And of course, there’s plenty of space with up to 2,272 litres of cargo volume behind the first row.
Super Cruise
Cadillac launched its semi-autonomous Super Cruise system nearly a decade ago. While other GM brands have since adopted it, Cadillac continues to offer the most advanced version.
In the Vistiq, one especially useful function is included, particularly for distracted drivers. When using built-in navigation, if you’re not in the correct lane when approaching an exit or junction, the vehicle will automatically perform the required lane changes to get you into the proper lane before it’s too late.
Interesting and impressive.
Another notable feature: Cadillac introduces augmented reality navigation in higher trims. Directions are projected onto the head-up display directly in your line of sight, showing turn-by-turn guidance right on the road ahead.
Powertrain and Range
The Vistiq uses the same technologies found in the Lyriq and other GM electric models. It features a 102-kWh battery powering two electric motors, producing a combined 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.
With Velocity Max mode engaged, the Vistiq launches from 0 to 97 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, remarkable for a 6,326 lb SUV. The estimated range is 483 kilometres, though that will need to be confirmed in real-world conditions.
During our first drive, energy consumption ranged between 4.5 and 4.8 km per kWh, which is excellent. Conditions were ideal: 15 degrees Celsius and low-speed rural roads with a speed limit of under 90 km/h. Further testing is needed for a more realistic picture.
Charging-wise, base models feature an 11.5 kW onboard charger, while higher trims offer 19.2 kW capacity. Cadillac says you can recover 127 km of range in just 10 minutes—under ideal conditions—with a maximum charging capacity of 190 kW.
On the Road
From behind the wheel, the Vistiq delivers what you’d expect. There’s ample power, but what stands out is how smooth and refined it feels. In that regard, it’s spot on. Note that base models feature a sportier suspension setup, while the luxury variants benefit from air suspension for a smoother, more luxurious ride.
The overall experience is so seamless and quiet that you often forget you’re driving an EV.
It’s clear that the intended buyer won’t be disappointed. The real question is whether they’ll be more tempted by the Lyriq…
Conclusion
With the Vistiq, Cadillac is delivering a convincing three-row electric SUV. The challenge will be finding its audience, especially since this is new territory for the brand.
The silver lining? Seventy percent of Lyriq buyers are new to the Cadillac brand. There’s clearly potential to attract shoppers accustomed to other luxury nameplates.
This will be an interesting story to watch unfold.
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The post 2026 Cadillac Vistiq First Drive: Closing the Loop appeared first on Motor Illustrated.
2026 Cadillac Vistiq First Drive: Closing the Loop