Cadillac Optiq vs. Lyriq: Which Electric SUV Size Is Right for You?

Cadillac now builds two electric SUVs that look alike at a glance but fit very different lives. Choosing between the Cadillac Optiq vs. Lyriq mostly comes down to size: the Optiq is the compact one, and the Lyriq is the midsize one with more cargo room, more range and more towing. Both seat five, both charge at home or on the road, and both include Super Cruise. This plain guide from Allen Turner Cadillac of Auburn walks you through the numbers that matter so you can pick the right size before you visit.

The Cadillac Optiq is the compact member of Cadillac’s electric SUV lineup. Image: Cadillac

Cadillac Optiq vs. Lyriq at a Glance

The quickest way to see the difference is to line up the numbers. The table below uses Cadillac’s figures for the single-motor rear-wheel-drive version of each SUV, which is where both lineups start. Dual-motor all-wheel drive is available on both.

Size, Space and Towing

The Optiq is 190 inches long on a 116-inch wheelbase. The Lyriq stretches to 196.7 inches on a 121.8-inch wheelbase, so it is about 6.7 inches longer overall. The shorter Optiq is easier to slip into a tight parking spot or a crowded garage, while the Lyriq uses its extra length for more cargo space and a higher towing rating.

Cargo room

Behind the rear seats, the Optiq holds 26 cubic feet and the Lyriq holds 28. Fold the rear seats and the gap grows: 57 cubic feet in the Optiq versus 60.8 in the Lyriq. For weekly groceries, a stroller or a couple of carry-on bags, the Optiq has you covered. If you often haul sports gear, a big dog crate or a load from the hardware store, the Lyriq gives you a little more room to work with.

Towing

This is the biggest gap between the two. Cadillac rates the Optiq to tow up to 1,500 pounds, while the Lyriq is rated up to 3,500 pounds, more than twice as much. If a small utility trailer or a lake weekend with a boat trailer is part of your plans, check your loaded trailer weight first. That number will often make the choice for you.

The midsize Cadillac Lyriq adds length, cargo room and towing capacity. Image: Cadillac

Range, Power and Charging

On range, the two are closer than their size suggests. Here is how the EPA estimates and Cadillac’s estimated power figures line up:

• Optiq RWD: 317 miles, 315 hp, 332 lb-ft of torque
• Optiq AWD: 303 miles, 440 hp, 498 lb-ft of torque
• Lyriq RWD: 326 miles, 365 hp, 325 lb-ft of torque
• Lyriq AWD: up to 319 miles, 515 hp, 450 lb-ft of torque

On a DC fast charger, the Optiq accepts up to 150 kW, and Cadillac estimates about 81 miles of range in about 10 minutes. The Lyriq accepts up to 190 kW for about 86 miles in about 10 minutes. Both use a North American Charging System (NACS) port. For home charging, both come with an 11.5 kW onboard charger, and a faster 19.2 kW unit is available. If you charge overnight in your garage, either SUV’s range leaves plenty of room for a normal day of errands and commuting. For real commutes and road trip planning, read our Lyriq range and charging guide.

The V-Series versions

If performance is the priority, both SUVs come in V-Series form. The Optiq-V makes an estimated 519 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque in Velocity Max mode, with up to 278 miles of EPA-estimated range. The Lyriq-V makes an estimated 615 hp and 650 lb-ft in Velocity Max, reaches 60 mph in 3.3 seconds according to Cadillac, and is rated at 285 miles.

Inside the Cabin: Tech and Comfort

Both SUVs seat five and offer Cadillac’s 33-inch Horizon Display, which stretches across the dash. Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance comes standard on both with a three-year OnStar One plan, for use on compatible roads. To see how it works on mapped highways like I-85, read our guide to Cadillac Super Cruise.

Audio is one place the Lyriq pulls ahead. The Optiq offers a 19-speaker AKG Studio Audio system, while Premium trims and above in the Lyriq step up to a 23-speaker AKG Studio Audio system. Dolby Atmos is available on both.

The Optiq comes in Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport and Premium Sport trims, plus the Optiq-V. The Lyriq adds Signature Luxury and Signature Sport above those, plus the Lyriq-V and Lyriq-V Premium, for eight trims in all.

Which Electric SUV Size Is Right for You?

Choose the Optiq if you

• Want a compact footprint that is easier to park and maneuver
• Usually carry one or two people plus everyday cargo
• Tow 1,500 pounds or less, or nothing at all
• Want Cadillac’s EV tech and Super Cruise in a smaller package

Choose the Lyriq if you

• Want extra length and cargo room for family trips
• Plan to tow up to 3,500 pounds
• Want the most range of the pair, up to 326 EPA-estimated miles
• Want faster DC fast charging and the 23-speaker AKG system

Open to a pre-owned EV? You can also browse our used vehicle inventory to see which Cadillac EVs are available right now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cadillac Optiq smaller than the Lyriq?

Yes. The Optiq is Cadillac’s compact electric SUV at 190 inches long, while the midsize Lyriq is 196.7 inches long on a longer wheelbase. Both seat five, but the Lyriq has more cargo space: 60.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded versus 57 in the Optiq.

Which has more range, the Cadillac Optiq or Lyriq?

The Lyriq has the edge. A rear-wheel-drive Lyriq has an EPA-estimated 326 miles of range, compared with 317 miles for a rear-wheel-drive Optiq. With all-wheel drive, the Optiq is rated at 303 miles and the Lyriq at up to 319 miles.

Does the Cadillac Optiq have Super Cruise?

Yes. Cadillac lists Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance as standard on the Optiq with a three-year OnStar One plan. The Lyriq also includes Super Cruise with the same three-year plan. It works on compatible roads, and you still need to keep your attention on the road.

How much can the Cadillac Optiq and Lyriq tow?

Cadillac rates the Optiq to tow up to 1,500 pounds and the Lyriq up to 3,500 pounds. Always check the rating for your exact configuration and the weight of your loaded trailer before you hook up.

Can I test drive a Cadillac Optiq or Lyriq at Allen Turner Cadillac?

Yes. Call (334) 821-9001 to set up a time to drive one or both, subject to availability. Allen Turner Cadillac is at 154 West Creek Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830, and you can find hours and more about the store on our About Us page. Our Cadillac test drive guide covers what to bring and what to check.

Find the Cadillac EV That Fits Your Life

The Optiq and Lyriq share Super Cruise, a 33-inch display and Cadillac’s EV know-how, so your choice really comes down to how much space, range and towing you need. If you mostly drive solo or as a couple, the Optiq is a smart, right-sized pick. If you need room for family gear or a trailer, the Lyriq earns its extra length. Allen Turner is the closest Cadillac store for drivers across a wide area, including Opelika, Valley and Tuskegee. Browse our new Cadillac inventory or explore Cadillac financing options before you stop by.