2026 Cadillac Vistiq Review
A decade ago, Cadillac was not a brand many people would associate with electric vehicles. Fast forward to today, and Cadillac now offers one of the widest EV lineups in the US market, with six electric models ranging from around $50,000 to well over $140,000.
Sitting right in the middle of this lineup is the 2026 Cadillac Vistiq, a three-row electric SUV positioned between the Lyriq and the Escalade IQ. It replaces the outgoing XT6 and serves buyers who want a premium three-row EV without moving into full Escalade pricing.
This review explains what the Cadillac Vistiq is, how it compares to rivals like the Volvo EX90, Rivian R1S, Lucid Gravity, Tesla Model X and Hyundai Ioniq 9, and whether it makes sense for real-world ownership.
Cadillac Vistiq Positioning in the EV Lineup
Cadillac currently offers three electric SUVs with three rows of seating.
• Cadillac Vistiq
• Cadillac Escalade IQ
• Cadillac Escalade IQL
The Vistiq is the smallest and most affordable of the three, with pricing topping out around $100,000. Buyers wanting something larger or more expensive can move up to the Escalade IQ or the longer IQL.
In Cadillac’s lineup, the Vistiq effectively replaces the XT6. While it is similar in exterior size, it offers:
• A longer wheelbase
• More interior space
• Better ride comfort
• A fully electric Ultium platform
• No Chevrolet, GMC or Buick sibling
This exclusivity gives the Vistiq a more premium identity than the XT6 ever had.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
Visually, the Cadillac Vistiq sticks to a traditional SUV shape, which sets it apart from sleeker rivals like the Lucid Gravity or Tesla Model X.
Key design highlights
• Signature vertical LED headlights
• Illuminated Cadillac badge
• Long hood with classic rear-wheel-drive proportions
• Short front overhang and longer dash-to-axle ratio
• Blunt rear end for improved cargo practicality
• Large vertical LED tail lights split into upper and lower sections
Unlike many EVs, the front does not look overly smoothed or sealed. The design still resembles a Cadillac SUV, which many buyers will prefer.
Dimensions at a glance
• Length: 205.6 inches
• Width: Nearly 80 inches
• Height: Over 71 inches
For context:
• Longer than BMW X7
• Similar length to Mercedes-Benz GLS
• Taller than Lucid Gravity by about 6 inches
The tall roofline and upright stance give the Vistiq better third-row headroom and cargo usability than many rivals.
Platform and Weight
The Vistiq rides on GM’s Ultium EV platform, which is shared with vehicles ranging from the Chevy Equinox EV to the Hummer EV.
Advantages of Ultium
• Shared battery modules and motors
• Easier long-term parts availability
• Independently replaceable battery modules
• Lower repair costs compared to low-volume EVs
Downsides
• Heavy curb weight
• Slower DC fast-charging compared to newer platforms
The Vistiq weighs well over 6,000 pounds, which affects charging speed but does not significantly hurt performance.
Powertrain, Performance and Range
All Cadillac Vistiq models come standard with dual motors and all-wheel drive.
Performance figures
• Power: 615 horsepower
• Torque: 650 lb-ft
• 0 to 60 mph: 3.6 seconds
• Towing capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds
Despite its size and weight, acceleration is strong and feels effortless in daily driving.
Battery and range
• Battery capacity: Around 102 kWh
• EPA combined range: 300 to 305 miles
• EPA highway range: 271 miles
Efficiency is better than expected for a large, boxy SUV, averaging 3 to 3.1 miles per kWh in real-world driving.
Charging Performance
Charging is one of the Vistiq’s biggest compromises.
DC fast charging
• Peak rate: 190 kW
• 10 to 80 percent: 40 to 45 minutes
This is significantly slower than rivals like:
• Lucid Gravity at around 20 minutes
• Volvo EX90 at about 30 minutes
AC charging advantage
• Optional 19.2 kW onboard charger
• Full charge in roughly 5 hours on a compatible Level 2 charger
For owners who mostly charge at home, this fast AC charging can be a major advantage.
Interior Layout and Seating Comfort
Front seats
The front seats score very high for comfort.
• Upright seating position
• Excellent headroom
• 43.1 inches of legroom
• Power adjustable thigh support
• Massage function
• Four-way lumbar support
• Heated and ventilated seats
Tall drivers will find more space here than in many competitors.
Second row
The second row is where the Vistiq really shines.
• Excellent legroom even behind tall drivers
• Heated seats
• Flat floor
• Five-zone climate control
• Easy access to third row even with child seats installed
Seat movement allows child seats to remain latched while accessing the third row, which is rare in EVs.
Third row
The third row is surprisingly usable.
• Better headroom than many rivals
• Higher seating position than Lucid Gravity
• Stadium-style seating
• USB-C ports, cup holders and air vents
Adults can comfortably sit in the third row for longer trips.
Cargo Space and Practicality
Cargo space is adequate but not class-leading.
Cargo measurements
• Behind third row: 15.2 cubic feet
• With third row folded: 43 cubic feet
A deep under-floor storage area helps compensate for the smaller main cargo opening.
Downsides
• No front trunk despite available space
• Power tailgate does not open very high
• Narrower cargo opening than expected
Infotainment and Technology
Screens and software
• Massive OLED dashboard display
• Separate climate control touchscreen
• Head-up display with augmented reality
• Google-based infotainment system
Missing features
• No Apple CarPlay
• No Android Auto
This will be a dealbreaker for some buyers.
While Google software has improved, apps like Waze, Amazon Music and podcast platforms can still be buggy.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The Cadillac Vistiq comes well equipped with safety features.
Standard safety highlights
• Enhanced automatic emergency braking
• Intersection braking
• Rear cross-traffic braking
• Pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Blind zone steering assist
• Traffic sign recognition
Super Cruise
Cadillac’s Super Cruise remains one of the best hands-free highway systems available.
• Smooth lane centering
• Automatic lane changes
• Excellent driver monitoring
It is ideal for highway commuting but does not replace full self-driving systems.
Ride Quality, Handling and Noise
Ride and handling
• Adaptive air suspension
• Optional rear-wheel steering
• Excellent ride comfort
• Stable cornering for its size
The Vistiq handles better than expected for a 6,400-pound SUV.
Cabin refinement
• Measured 60 dB at 50 mph
• Minimal wind noise
• Excellent sound insulation
This is one of the quietest three-row EVs available.
Pricing Overview
Cadillac Vistiq pricing
• Starting price: $79,990
• As tested: $95,390
• Fully loaded: Around $100,415
Key rivals pricing comparison
| Model | Starting Price | Top Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cadillac Vistiq | $79,990 | ~$100,000 |
| Volvo EX90 | $81,290 | $95,990 |
| Rivian R1S | ~$80,000 | ~$130,000 |
| Lucid Gravity | ~$81,000 | ~$130,000 |
| Tesla Model X | ~$101,630 | Higher |
| Hyundai Ioniq 9 | $60,555 | ~$80,000 |
Pros and Cons Summary
What works well
• Comfortable three-row seating
• Premium interior materials
• Strong performance
• Good real-world efficiency
• Excellent ride quality
• Super Cruise hands-free driving
What could be better
• Slow DC fast charging
• No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
• No front trunk
• Expensive tire replacement costs
Final Verdict
The 2026 Cadillac Vistiq is a well-rounded luxury three-row electric SUV that prioritises comfort, refinement and interior space over cutting-edge charging speed.
It makes the most sense for buyers who:
• Mostly charge at home
• Want a traditional SUV shape
• Value ride comfort and interior quality
• Use hands-free highway driving regularly
If long road trips are a priority, rivals like the Lucid Gravity or Volvo EX90 may suit you better. If value is key, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 delivers similar space for much less money.
For buyers who want a luxury EV that feels like a proper SUV, the Cadillac Vistiq is a strong and surprisingly likable option.
