Cadillac Optiq vs. Lexus RZ, Audi Q4 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Genesis GV60 and Tesla Model Y

For drivers shopping for a luxury electric SUV, there are more choices than ever. The Cadillac Optiq competes in a particularly important part of the EV market: the premium compact SUV segment, where buyers can choose from established luxury brands such as Lexus, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Genesis, as well as EV-focused manufacturers such as Tesla.

The 2027 Cadillac Optiq brings a combination of long driving range, available all-wheel drive, premium technology and Cadillac luxury to the segment. With a starting MSRP of $49,995, an EPA-estimated range of up to 317 miles with rear-wheel drive, standard Super Cruise and a 33-inch display, the Optiq is designed to offer substantial technology and luxury without moving into the price range of larger luxury EVs.

Here’s how the Optiq compares with the Lexus RZ, Audi Q4 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Genesis GV60 and Tesla Model Y.

At a Glance

Model	Powertrain	Range*	AWD Availability	Starting Price*
Cadillac Optiq	Single-motor RWD / dual-motor AWD	Up to 317 miles	Available	$49,995
Lexus RZ 350e	Single-motor FWD	Up to 301 miles	Available	$47,395
Audi Q4 e-tron	Single- or dual-motor EV	Varies by configuration	Available	Varies
Mercedes-Benz EQB	Single- or dual-motor EV	Up to 250 miles	Available	$53,050
Genesis GV60	Single- or dual-motor EV	Up to 306 miles	Available	$52,525
Tesla Model Y	Single- or dual-motor EV	Up to 321 miles	Available	Varies

*Manufacturer pricing, range and equipment can vary by model, configuration, wheels, options and model year. Always verify current EPA ratings and pricing for the specific vehicle.

2027 Cadillac Optiq: A Strong Combination of Range and Luxury

The Optiq is Cadillac’s smaller all-electric SUV, but its specifications position it as a serious competitor to several established luxury EVs.

For 2027, the Optiq offers single-motor rear-wheel drive with an EPA-estimated 317 miles of range. Buyers who want all-wheel drive can choose a dual-motor configuration with an EPA-estimated 303 miles of range. Cadillac estimates up to 440 horsepower for the available AWD system.

The Optiq also starts at $49,995, placing it in the same general pricing conversation as the Lexus RZ, Genesis GV60 and Mercedes-Benz EQB.

Perhaps more importantly for luxury-SUV shoppers, the Optiq includes an impressive amount of technology as standard equipment.

Standard features include:

• Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance
• 33-inch Horizon Display
• Google built-in
• 19-speaker AKG Studio Audio System
• SkyGlass roof with power shade
• Digital Key
• Wireless phone charging
• NACS charging port
• 11.5-kW AC onboard charger
• Vehicle-to-Home capability
• One-Pedal Driving and Regen on Demand

Available features include a 19.2-kW AC onboard charger, head-up display, massaging front seats and additional premium interior equipment.

Cadillac Optiq vs. Lexus RZ

The Lexus RZ is perhaps one of the most natural alternatives to the Optiq for buyers who prioritize quietness, comfort and traditional Japanese luxury craftsmanship.

For 2026, the RZ lineup includes the RZ 350e, RZ 450e AWD and RZ 550e F SPORT AWD. The RZ 350e produces 221 horsepower and has a manufacturer-estimated range of approximately 301 miles, while the RZ 450e AWD produces 308 horsepower with an estimated 264-mile range. The performance-oriented RZ 550e F SPORT AWD produces 402 horsepower with an estimated 229-mile range.

The Optiq has an advantage in its combination of range and available AWD: its RWD version is rated at up to 317 miles, while the AWD version is rated at 303 miles.

For buyers who want:

Lexus RZ: A comfort-oriented EV with Lexus design and driving characteristics.

Cadillac Optiq: More range in comparable configurations, a larger 33-inch display, standard Super Cruise and a strong selection of luxury technology.

Cadillac Optiq vs. Audi Q4 e-tron

The Audi Q4 e-tron brings Audi’s familiar design language, quattro all-wheel drive and a premium European interior to the compact electric SUV segment.

The 2026 Q4 55 e-tron produces 335 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.0 seconds. The Q4 45 e-tron is also available with rear-wheel drive and 282 horsepower, while the Q4 55 adds dual-motor quattro all-wheel drive.

The Q4’s appeal is its combination of Audi styling, quattro capability and a familiar Audi cabin and interface.

The Optiq takes a different approach. Cadillac emphasizes a more dramatic interior with its 33-inch 9K Horizon Display, a standard 19-speaker AKG system and standard Super Cruise.

For buyers who want:

Audi Q4 e-tron: European design, quattro and Audi’s traditional driving character.

Cadillac Optiq: A more technology-forward interior, longer available range and standard Super Cruise.

Cadillac Optiq vs. Mercedes-Benz EQB

The Mercedes-Benz EQB is one of the more distinctive alternatives because it combines an electric powertrain with the practicality of the GLB SUV platform.

The EQB can accommodate up to seven passengers in certain configurations and offers three primary powertrain choices. Mercedes-Benz lists the EQB 250+ with 188 horsepower, the EQB 300 4MATIC with 225 combined horsepower and the EQB 350 4MATIC with 288 combined horsepower. The EQB 250+ has an EPA-estimated 250-mile range.

The Optiq is positioned differently.

It offers seating for five rather than attempting to provide a small third row, and it emphasizes EV range, premium technology and a more distinctly Cadillac interior.

The Optiq also starts below the EQB 300 and EQB 350, while offering up to 317 miles of EPA-estimated range in RWD configuration.

For buyers who want:

Mercedes-Benz EQB: Maximum flexibility in a compact Mercedes-Benz SUV, including available three-row seating.

Cadillac Optiq: Longer available range, standard Super Cruise and a technology-rich luxury interior.

Mercedes-Benz is also introducing its newer GLC Electric SUV, which is a different size and price proposition than the EQB. Mercedes-Benz currently lists the GLC Electric with up to 483 horsepower and a starting price that is still listed as forthcoming.

Cadillac Optiq vs. Genesis GV60

The Genesis GV60 is one of the closest competitors to the Optiq from a luxury and technology standpoint.

For 2026, the GV60 is available with rear-wheel drive producing 225 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 306-mile range. The AWD version produces 314 horsepower with an estimated 282-mile range, while the Performance AWD version produces 429 horsepower and can reach 483 horsepower with Boost Mode.

The GV60 also emphasizes technology and premium materials, making it a particularly strong choice for buyers who want a distinctive luxury EV.

The Optiq counters with a lower starting price, up to 317 miles of EPA-estimated range in RWD form and a substantial list of standard technology—including Super Cruise and the 33-inch Horizon Display.

For buyers who want:

Genesis GV60: A boutique-style luxury EV with a premium interior and strong performance options.

Cadillac Optiq: A larger-feeling technology experience, longer available range and Cadillac’s Super Cruise system.

Cadillac Optiq vs. Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is arguably the most important non-luxury-brand competitor in this category because of its combination of range, technology, charging infrastructure and strong market recognition.

Current Model Y configurations include rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models, with Tesla listing up to 321 miles of EPA-estimated range for its standard Model Y and up to 327 miles for the Model Y Premium. Tesla also lists up to 74–76 cubic feet of cargo capacity depending on configuration.

The Model Y also has access to Tesla’s Supercharger network and emphasizes a minimalist, software-centered ownership experience.

The Optiq takes a more traditional luxury-vehicle approach.

It combines a dedicated luxury brand, a premium interior, standard Super Cruise, a 33-inch display, 19-speaker AKG audio, available massaging seats and NACS charging capability.

The choice between the two therefore comes down to more than range.

Tesla Model Y: Strong charging-network integration, extensive software features and impressive cargo flexibility.

Cadillac Optiq: Traditional luxury-vehicle craftsmanship, premium features, Cadillac design and Super Cruise hands-free driving technology.

Range: How Does the Optiq Compare?

Range is one of the first specifications EV shoppers consider, and the Optiq performs particularly well in this group.

The 2027 Optiq offers:

• 317 miles with single-motor RWD
• 303 miles with dual-motor AWD
• NACS charging
• Available 19.2-kW AC charging
• Vehicle-to-Home capability

Cadillac’s AWD range is especially notable because moving to all-wheel drive does not require giving up substantial range.

Actual range will vary with temperature, driving style, road conditions, climate-control use, wheel and tire configuration and other factors.

Technology: Super Cruise Sets the Optiq Apart

One of the biggest differences between the Optiq and its competitors is Super Cruise.

Cadillac makes Super Cruise standard on the 2027 Optiq, along with a three-year OnStar One plan. Super Cruise provides hands-free driver assistance on compatible roads, while the driver must remain attentive and follow the system’s operating requirements.

This is an important distinction for buyers comparing luxury EVs because driver-assistance systems aren’t all designed or marketed in the same way.

Tesla offers Full Self-Driving (Supervised), but Tesla explicitly states that the system requires active driver supervision and does not make the vehicle autonomous.

The Optiq’s Super Cruise system provides Cadillac with a particularly strong technology story for highway driving.

Charging: The Optiq Moves to NACS

Charging compatibility is becoming increasingly important as EV ownership expands.

The 2027 Optiq uses a North American Charging System (NACS) charging port, allowing it to use the expanding NACS charging ecosystem. Cadillac also offers Vehicle-to-Home capability, allowing a properly equipped home and vehicle to use the Optiq as a potential backup power source.

Lexus also moved the 2026 RZ to NACS, while Tesla has long used its own Supercharger network.

Which Luxury Electric SUV Is Right for You?

There isn’t one EV that is perfect for every driver.

The Lexus RZ emphasizes Lexus comfort and refinement. Audi brings quattro and its European design philosophy. Mercedes-Benz offers the EQB’s flexible packaging and the newer GLC Electric for buyers moving into a higher price category. Genesis emphasizes distinctive luxury and performance with the GV60. Tesla focuses heavily on range, software and its Supercharger ecosystem.

The Cadillac Optiq takes a balanced approach.

It combines up to 317 miles of range, available AWD, NACS charging, standard Super Cruise, a 33-inch display, premium AKG audio, available massaging seats and Cadillac luxury design, while starting at $49,995.

For many EV shoppers, that combination may be the Optiq’s strongest advantage: it doesn’t require choosing between luxury, technology, driving range and everyday usability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cadillac Optiq a luxury electric SUV?

Yes. The Optiq is Cadillac’s compact luxury electric SUV, positioned below the Lyriq in Cadillac’s EV lineup.

How much range does the Cadillac Optiq have?

The 2027 Optiq has an EPA-estimated range of up to 317 miles with rear-wheel drive and 303 miles with available dual-motor all-wheel drive.

Does the Cadillac Optiq have all-wheel drive?

Yes. The Optiq is available with dual-motor all-wheel drive. Cadillac estimates up to 440 horsepower and 498 lb-ft of torque for the available AWD system.

Does the Cadillac Optiq have Super Cruise?

Yes. Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance is standard on the 2027 Optiq, with a three-year OnStar One plan.

Does the Cadillac Optiq use NACS?

Yes. The 2027 Optiq has a standard NACS charging port.

How does the Optiq compare with the Lexus RZ?

The Optiq offers up to 317 miles of EPA-estimated range in RWD configuration, compared with up to approximately 301 miles for the 2026 Lexus RZ 350e. The Optiq also offers standard Super Cruise and a 33-inch display.

How does the Optiq compare with the Audi Q4 e-tron?

The Audi Q4 e-tron offers Audi styling, available quattro all-wheel drive and up to 335 horsepower in the Q4 55 e-tron. The Optiq emphasizes longer available range, Cadillac luxury features and standard Super Cruise.

How does the Optiq compare with the Mercedes-Benz EQB?

The EQB offers available three-row seating and up to 288 horsepower in the EQB 350 4MATIC. The Optiq is a five-passenger SUV with up to 317 miles of range and standard Super Cruise.

How does the Optiq compare with the Genesis GV60?

The Genesis GV60 offers up to 306 miles of estimated range in RWD configuration and up to 429 horsepower in Performance AWD. The Optiq offers up to 317 miles of EPA-estimated range, standard Super Cruise and a starting price of $49,995.

How does the Optiq compare with the Tesla Model Y?

The Model Y offers up to 321 miles of EPA-estimated range in its current lineup and up to 76 cubic feet of cargo space depending on configuration. The Optiq counters with a more traditional luxury-car experience, standard Super Cruise, a 33-inch display, premium AKG audio and available massaging seats.

Explore the Cadillac Optiq at Pepe Cadillac

The best way to compare electric SUVs is to experience them in person. At Pepe Cadillac, shoppers can explore the Cadillac Optiq, learn about its available RWD and AWD configurations, experience Super Cruise and see how its technology and interior compare with the other luxury EVs they may be considering.