Interesting. Thanks for sharing. I am guessing making dual motors optional is a simple way to increase prices without being obvious.
Looks like some new colors too?

 

Here's the link to the complete guide : Vehicle Order Guide.

 

my PDF is the complete guide btw.

 

True, but accessing the web site will always provide the current guide. It also allows you to select other vehicles for comparison purposes, etc. That's why I posted the link.

 

Here are some of the major changes coming to the Optiq in 2026:
Currently, the Optiq is only available with all-wheel drive (AWD). A new Dual Motor AWD option is joining the 2026 lineup, which GM estimates can crank out 440 hp (324 kW) and 498 lb-ft (675 Nm) of torque. The 2026 Cadillac Optiq will be one of the first GM vehicles to feature a built-in NACS port, unlocking access to over 21,500 Tesla Superchargers across North America. The new model arrives with an updated Vision Enhanced Parking feature with an improved camera and radar system. GM has also updated its Super Cruise driver-assist technology with hands-on functionality, an improved Adaptive Cruise Control, and additional features.

 

Nice! Maybe when my lease is up...

 

The one improvement I worry I'm most missing out on is the camera and related processing. It seems intergal to several useful enhancements from lane keeping to parking.

I've noticed occasionally when the sun is low my car can't distinguish lane markings, I bet the next gen is much more capable.

 

I'm a little slow sometimes, in this case I originally didn't think about something that now that I see it, seems pretty darn significant.

I focused on them using more powerful drive motors, and offering RWD now... great, but now I wonder why? I guess they decided the main drive motor location is better in the rear? Is this to lessen torque steer?

For 2025 they seemed to brag about the strong front motor and weaker back motor disengaging when not needed so why such a major change after just the first model year?

...and Active Suspension? Is that V cars only or all 2026?

 

I’m starting to think that all Optiqs will still have a front motor but buyers will be able to upgrade to a stronger rear motor (440 hp total) or a V (519 hp total).

 

Although it really makes do difference to me I've seen quite a few reviews where they mention the front bias and some take issue with that. Maybe that's what's driving the change?

 

Is the change for the V model only or both the V and the non-V models?

 

Side thought, is the smaller front motor also to make room for active suspension components?

Like PJL asked... is this V only? hmmm

 

Interesting that there is no trailering package available for the V Optiq. Wonder what the reason for that is?

 

There are three motor options for the MY26 Optiq.

RWD, AWD, and V AWD.

RWD is 315 HP, the AWD is 440 HP, and the V AWD is 519 HP.

For MY26 it looks like they changed the Optiq to rear bias for power, to further separate itself from the Chevy Equinox, and provide a more sporty drive.

 

There are three motor options for the MY26 Optiq.

RWD, AWD, and V AWD.

RWD is 315 HP, the AWD is 440 HP, and the V AWD is 519 HP.

For MY26 it looks like they changed the Optiq to rear bias for power, to further separate itself from the Chevy Equinox, and provide a more sporty drive.

Any idea if the front motor in the 440 hp AWD version will be permanent magnet or inductive? I assume the V model’s motors will both be permanent magnet.

 

Should we speculate that both regular AWD and V models use the same motors (obviously would be derated for non-V) My guess is yes.

I also guess the trailer hitch is not an option because the larger rear motor crowds out this option somehow. I think the smaller front motor could leave more room for active suspension components (again probably only tunable on the V?) ???

Now I'm starting to convince myself, purely based on rumors in my head, that I am missing out, lol

 

Little frustrating about the large power bump over 1yr difference. Currently have the 25 🙄

 

Ya this is a substantial 1yr differential. I'm a bit cheesed I totally would've waited for this. Oh well. Time to stop watching reviews and reading about them. Comparison is the thief of joy LOL.

 

Looks like the 315 hp 2026 RWD Optiq will be $52,395. As such, it will be about $2,000 cheaper than the 2025 AWD Optiq. The 440 hp 2026 AWD Optiq will cost $55,895 and the 519 hp 2026 Optiq V will cost $68,795.

 

Where are you getting price info on the2026 Optiq’s? I don’t see a configurator on Caddy’s website.