Cadillac Embraces Electrification
Lately, much of the news about General Motors’ electric vehicle strategy has surrounded the company’s increasing caution as U.S. EV sales growth slows and inventories rise – some models of the Chevy Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, and others have been pushed back. But, long-term, the American giant remains committed to electrification. Earlier this year, it announced that the popular and affordable Chevy Bolt would return for a second generation, along with a raft of other EV products. The latest is an all-new, all-electric three-row SUV from Cadillac, called the Vistiq.
The New Cadillac Three-Row Electric SUV
The Vistiq will slot into Cadillac’s lineup above the spacious, stylish, and well-reviewed Lyriq, but below the monster Escalade IQ. Built on a dedicated EV platform featuring GM’s Ultium battery technology and vehicle architecture, it will be available with three rows of seats, giving it more space and flexibility than the two-row-only Lyriq. Exterior photos released by Cadillac show the brand’s distinctive technical pattern on the “grille” and bold LED front lights, huge wheels, a long wheelbase, and a long rear overhang that hints at a spacious cargo area.
Indeed, in terms of size and space, the Vistiq will likely give drivers a similar package to the three-row, gasoline-powered XT6 crossover that the brand currently sells. Targeted more at urban and on-road use, Cadillac says the Vistiq will be “distinctive and innovative,” and is targeted at “the modern family.”
Vistiq Range, Charging, and Performance
All Vistiq models come with a standard 102-kWh battery and dual-motor all-wheel drive. A whopping 615 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque help it rush to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, and Cadillac claims that the Vistiq will also deliver 300 miles of range. Charging speed has not been communicated, but we expect competitive rapid charging times thanks to Vistiq’s use of GM’s cutting-edge Ultium EV platform.
The Vistiq should also handle well. In addition to a choice of 21-, 22-, or 23-inch wheels, Cadillac is offering active rear steering to help reduce the turning radius and improve maneuverability in town while also improving highway stability. Road noise cancellation helps keep the cabin whisper-quiet.
Cadillac Vistiq Pricing and Standard Equipment
As you would expect of Cadillac, the Vistiq is expensive, but packed with standard equipment. The starting MSRP for this three-row electric Cadillac is $78,790, which includes a long list of technology features:
- 23-speaker audio system with Dolby Atmos to create an immersive 3D listening experience
- Driver assistance technologies including blind zone steering assist, side bicyclist alert, and forward collision alert
- OnStar automatic crash response
- Vehicle-to-home bi-directional charging capability, which can draw power from the vehicle and power your home during a blackout
There’s plenty of luxury on offer, as well. You can choose from Luxury, Sport, and Premium Luxury trim levels, with a Platinum trim launching in summer 2025 with added performance equipment and color options. All trim levels offer a very comfortable third row with padded armrests, smartphone storage, cupholders, and USB chargers; as well as easily reconfigurable seats and storage areas. Luxury and Premium Luxury trims come with open-pore wood (or carbon fiber for black interiors) and a recycled accent fabric alongside leather. Intelligent five-zone climate controls are also standard.
What Electric SUVs Does Cadillac Offer?
It's becoming clear that Cadillac is very quickly becoming a serious electric car player. From 2025 onward, it will have a lineup of five all-new, ground-up EV models.
The lineup will start with the Cadillac Optiq, which will serve as the brand’s entry level model in North America, but is also designed for a global electric car audience. Cadillac promises a compact package that will appeal to Europeans as well as Americans, and spirited driving dynamics along with expressive Cadillac styling.
The Lyriq, introduced in late 2022, is Cadillac’s mainstream EV offering. With innovative design, a spacious interior, and ground-up EV platform, it’s close to class-leading with its impressive real-world range and performance. The Vistiq should fill a gap for buyers that want a luxury EV SUV but want more space, and a third row of seats.
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ and Celestiq
At the top of the SUV tree, of course, will be the Escalade IQ, an electric take on Cadillac’s signature big-dog SUV. With a huge 200-kWh battery, massive wheels, a massive interior, and likely a massive price tag, it’s one of the most impressive electric vehicles we’ve yet seen – though given its size, weight, and battery capacity, it’s not exactly the greenest of green SUVs.
There's also, of course, Cadillac's hand-built, $300,000 flagship, the Celestiq - a massive, gorgeous grand touring hatchback that will be made in very limited numbers.
We’re excited to see Cadillac embracing the electrified future. With an EV entry in every relevant luxury segment, customers looking for American luxury and innovation will have plenty of choices if they want to go emissions-free.
* All mileage is EPA estimated.
