2026 Cadillac Vistiq Review : Cadillac has officially rounded out its electric SUV lineup with the introduction of the 2026 Cadillac Vistiq, a three-row crossover designed to deliver both luxury and performance. Positioned between the midsize Lyriq and the full-size Escalade IQ, the Vistiq also serves as the electric successor to the now-discontinued XT6. With cutting-edge technology, refined interiors, and impressive performance numbers, this SUV is Cadillac’s latest statement in the EV market.
Filling the Gap in Cadillac’s EV Portfolio
The Vistiq slots neatly into Cadillac’s EV family:
- Optiq (compact entry-level EV)
- Lyriq (midsize SUV)
- Vistiq (three-row midsize-to-large crossover)
- Escalade IQ (full-size flagship)
Gas-powered models like the Escalade and XT5 will remain for now, but Cadillac is clearly focusing on electrification, with the Vistiq set to replace the XT6.
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Sleek Exterior Design
While its proportions are close to the outgoing XT6, the Vistiq’s design is far more modern. A smooth illuminated panel replaces the traditional grille, while the tapered roofline enhances aerodynamics. The result is a futuristic yet distinctly Cadillac appearance.
Powertrain and Range
Every Vistiq model comes equipped with an all-wheel-drive system producing 615 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, powered by a 102 kWh battery. This setup delivers an estimated 305 miles of range, balancing strong performance with everyday practicality.
In Velocity Max mode, the Vistiq sprints from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds—remarkable for a nearly three-ton SUV. It also offers 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, ensuring it’s more than just a luxury cruiser.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Vistiq is offered in four trims, all featuring the same powertrain:
- Luxury – $79,090
- Sport – $79,590
- Premium Luxury – $93,590
- Platinum – $98,815
The entry-level Luxury trim qualifies for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, keeping it under $80,000 for eligible buyers.
Interior: Comfort and Versatility
Inside, the Vistiq emphasizes comfort and high-tech appeal:
- Seating: Available in six- or seven-passenger layouts with premium synthetic leather.
- Technology: A 33-inch curved digital display integrates the instrument cluster and infotainment. The center console adds a secondary climate screen, rotary infotainment controller, and scroll volume knob.
- Third-Row Comfort: Features include cup holders, USB ports, a dedicated climate zone, and dual sunroofs. Taller passengers can fit if the second row slides forward.
Cargo space is practical, with underfloor storage for added convenience.
Advanced Tech and Driver Assistance
Cadillac equips the Vistiq with a wealth of technology, highlighted by:
- Super Cruise (standard): Hands-free highway driving on 600,000+ miles of mapped roads, now upgraded to handle interchanges and automated lane changes.
- Night Vision (Premium Luxury & Platinum): Infrared display for detecting pedestrians and animals.
- Augmented Reality HUD: Provides 3D navigation and blind-spot alerts.
Ride Quality and Driving Dynamics
Suspension systems vary by trim:
- Luxury & Sport – Steel suspension with adaptive dampers.
- Premium Luxury & Platinum – Air suspension with rear-wheel steering.
The air suspension delivers exceptional comfort, allowing the Vistiq to glide over rough surfaces as if it were floating.
Charging and EV Features
The Vistiq supports up to 190 kW fast charging, slower than the Escalade IQ’s 350 kW capability. It can replenish about 79 miles in 10 minutes or reach 80% in just over 30 minutes.
Navigation automatically preconditions the battery for optimal charging and can locate Tesla’s V3 Superchargers, which the Vistiq can now access with an included adapter.
A notable shift is Cadillac’s decision to drop Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Instead, the system relies on Google Built-in, requiring users to log into apps directly within the car.
Competition in the Market
The Cadillac Vistiq enters a growing but still limited luxury three-row EV market. Its main competitors include:
- Tesla Model X
- Volvo EX90
- Rivian R1S (more rugged option)
- Lucid Gravity & Mercedes EQS SUV (higher starting price, closer to $100k)
Unlike rivals that emphasize sportiness or ruggedness, the Vistiq focuses on smooth luxury cruising, making it stand out.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Cadillac Vistiq offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology, all in a practical three-row layout. While its charging speed lags behind some competitors, its comfort, design, and advanced features position it as one of the most refined electric SUVs in its class.