Buoyed by recent success in the electric vehicle (EV) market, General Motors is set to unveil its latest Cadillac model: the 2026 Vistiq SUV. Officially announced on Tuesday, the three-row electric SUV is poised to offer a robust 300-mile range and a starting price of $78,790. The Vistiq joins Cadillac’s burgeoning EV family, which includes the Lyriq, Optiq, Escalade IQ, and the high-end Celestiq, as GM leverages an improved production cadence and a wider lineup to gain ground in the increasingly competitive EV landscape.
A Premium EV with Luxury Design Cues
The Vistiq slots in at the high end of GM’s electric vehicle offerings. With production scheduled to start early next year at GM’s Spring Hill, Tennessee, plant, where the Lyriq is also built, it could potentially qualify for federal tax incentives, though the future of these credits is uncertain. The Vistiq’s design borrows several notable features from the Lyriq, such as flush door handles and Cadillac’s signature diamond-cut pattern on the grille. The SUV’s side panels and front and rear lights mirror those of the Lyriq, while the sleek, swept-back windshield is inspired by the Escalade IQ, positioning the Vistiq as a luxurious yet slightly less expensive alternative to Cadillac’s ultimate EV, the Escalade IQ.
Power and Performance in Focus
Under the hood, the Vistiq will house a 102kWh battery—smaller than the 200kWh battery in the Escalade IQ, but still impressive, delivering 615 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with dual motors and active rear steering, the Vistiq is built for smooth handling and agility. Optional 23-inch wheels enhance visibility and maneuverability, but Cadillac advises caution as the height can pose potential risks to pedestrians.
Enhanced Connectivity and Charging Options
Cadillac has opted for Google’s Android-based infotainment system, integrating Google Maps and offering apps via the Google Play Store. However, the system notably excludes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a controversial choice defended by GM’s software team as part of a broader shift toward proprietary software solutions. Another standout feature in the Vistiq is bidirectional charging capability, or vehicle-to-home (V2H) charging, which allows owners to use their EV battery as a backup power source during blackouts. Cadillac’s home energy division offers a V2H bundle for approximately $7,300, complete with a home charger and enablement kit.
The Vistiq is built on a 240V system and supports both Level 2 and DC fast charging. With DC fast charging, the SUV can add 79 miles of range in just 10 minutes—a valuable feature for EV drivers seeking efficiency on longer journeys.
Safety and Trim Options to Match Every Driver’s Style
Safety features abound in the Vistiq, with advanced collision assistance via OnStar, improved safety warnings, and infrared-powered night vision for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. Cadillac will initially launch the Vistiq in three trims: Luxury, Sport, and Premium Luxury, with an additional Platinum trim to debut in 2025. The Platinum version will offer added performance features and expanded color choices, allowing customers to further personalize their driving experience.
Navigating a Shifting EV Market
Cadillac aims to replicate the Lyriq’s success with the Vistiq. The Lyriq has been a popular choice among luxury EV buyers in the U.S., significantly contributing to Cadillac’s recent sales growth. However, the Vistiq will be entering the market at a time of regulatory uncertainty. President-elect Donald Trump has expressed intent to eliminate federal EV tax credits, including the $7,500 incentive introduced under the Biden administration. For GM, achieving a “zero-emission” future and profitability in its EV business depends heavily on these incentives.
Despite potential challenges, Cadillac is confident the Vistiq will capture consumer interest as a well-rounded, luxury-focused EV that combines Cadillac’s trademark design, innovative technology, and performance.
