2026 Cadillac Vistiq: New Three-Row EV SUV

Cadillac is expanding its electric vehicle range. The new 2026 Cadillac Vistiq is here. This addition brings the EV lineup to five models. They spread across the luxury segment. The Vistiq is a new three-row SUV. It fits between the Lyriq-V and Escalade IQ models.

Vistiq’s Position and Unique Features

The Vistiq sits just below the Escalade IQ/IQL. It shares running gear with the Lyriq-V. The Lyriq-V is a slightly shorter two-row vehicle. Cadillac’s compact Optiq serves as the entry-level EV. The high-priced, wagon-like Celestiq acts as a halo model.

The Vistiq is more than just an extended Lyriq. Its unique exterior design is evident. The interior also sets it apart. Materials and the refined ride are luxurious. They are appropriate for a Cadillac. This newest EV SUV introduces a new feature. It is the first augmented-reality head-up display. New features also enhance the Super Cruise hands-free driving system.

Core Specifications: The Lowdown

The Vistiq rides on the same 121.8-inch wheelbase as the Lyriq. However, it is 8.9 inches longer overall. This extra length accommodates the third row. Its claimed base curb weight is 6326 pounds. This is about 500 pounds more than the Lyriq. A 102-kWh battery pack sits under the floor. This provides an estimated range of 305 miles.

Four trim levels are available for the Vistiq. These are Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury, and Platinum. The Sport trim costs an extra $500. Its base price is $79,090 for the Luxury. The Sport notably features blacked-out exterior trim. The Premium Luxury model adds $14,500. This includes an air suspension. Rear-wheel steering is also added. Night Vision and a head-up display are included. Second-row captain’s chairs complete this package.

Driving the Vistiq: Performance and Comfort

The driving experience varies. It depends largely on the Vistiq model. Most test drives occurred near Ann Arbor, Michigan. The Premium Luxury model was primarily driven. It rode on 23-inch wheels. These wheels had noise-reduction foam inside. Consequently, the ride was very quiet. It was surprisingly composed. This was true even over rough road sections.

The rear-wheel steering greatly helped. It made the Vistiq feel smaller. It did not seem as huge as a three-ton EV might. This system effectively shrinks the wheelbase in corners. However, the long wheelbase also contributes to overall smoothness. It avoids the occasional “bucking” motions. These are common on shorter-wheelbase EVs.

Power and Handling

The Vistiq boasts impressive power. In Velocity Max mode, it offers 615 hp. It also has 649 lb-ft of torque. Cadillac estimates it goes from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Less power is available in normal Tour or Sport modes. Nevertheless, the Vistiq offers plenty of acceleration. This is true in nearly all situations.

Cornering experience was limited. Damp roads made aggressive driving difficult. Still, the Vistiq handled curves confidently. It remained fairly level. The front seats are plush. They are also supportive. The massage function is adequately strong. This is relevant for target customers.

Suspension Differences

The steel-spring Vistiq offered a less “magic carpet” ride. It rode on smaller, 21-inch wheels. These had more tire sidewall. This usually helps ride compliance. However, the lack of insulating foam in these tires was a key difference. More noise came from the treads. A “basketball-like ping” was audible on expansion joints.

Turn-in felt slightly more sluggish without rear-wheel steering. However, there was also more steering feedback. It remained quiet overall. It compares well to other three-row SUVs. But comparing it back-to-back made the price jump desirable. The air springs and insulated tires of the Premium Luxury felt superior.

Living with the Vistiq: Interior and Features

The Vistiq’s interior feels conventional. It seems like a regular SUV. It only stands out when it is time to recharge. The basic layout mirrors gasoline-powered siblings. This includes the XT6 crossover. It also resembles Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC counterparts.

The front row offers ample space. The second row is adequate. However, it is not expansive. The third row is compromised. It has a high floor. Knees sit above hip level. This row is fine for short trips. It suits smaller occupants. USB-C ports are available for all rows. HVAC vents also serve second and third rows. An AC port is in the second row. This keeps everyone comfortable and charged.

Cargo and Displays

Behind the third row, luggage space is short. This is typical for most three-row SUVs. Buttons in the cargo area raise and lower the third row. They also fold the second row, but manually raise it. Another set of buttons is inside the rear doors. These fold the third row from the middle.

The instrument cluster and infotainment combine. They form a sweeping display. This spans the dashboard. The steering wheel slightly crops the top of the display. This depends on driver height and position. However, it does not block critical information. Instruments are straightforward. They are easy to read. Minimal clutter enhances clarity.

A small touchscreen is on the leftmost part of the cluster. It changes display settings. It also shows trip information. It adjusts the head-up display. The Vistiq has a third screen below the main display. This manages climate control. It is similar to the electric Escalade. Important functions are immediately accessible. This is true despite touchscreen use.

Super Cruise and Augmented Reality

The standard Super Cruise system has new features. It now coordinates with navigation. It can switch lanes for highway-to-highway interchanges. This only works if both roads support hands-free driving. It also moves to the right lane. This happens before the driver exits the highway. For now, this is exclusive to the Vistiq. Cadillac representatives advise to “stay tuned” for wider rollout. The Vistiq can tow 5000 pounds. Super Cruise also works with a trailer. However, automated lane changes are disabled when towing.

A new augmented-reality function enhances the head-up display. It projects directions at a longer focal point. This is different from the standard windshield view. It is one of three display options. It offers the best balance of minimal distraction. It provides useful alerts. Animated arrows guide navigation. Visual cues indicate Super Cruise lane changes.

Should You Buy a Vistiq? Market Comparison

The Vistiq is a luxury vehicle. Value from a purely rational view is often absent. If a three-row electric SUV is all you need, cheaper options exist. The Kia EV9 and upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 9 offer similar range. They cost around the mid-$60,000 range. For more luxurious rivals, options include the Rivian R1S and Volvo EX90. These are nearly direct comparisons. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV starts much higher. It is well above the Vistiq Premium Luxury price.

Ultimately, three-row EVs have limited selection. The Cadillac Vistiq offers an impressive combination. It blends style, comfort, and performance. It is a strong contender in its segment.

Highlights and Lowlights

What We Appreciate:

Smooth and silent operation, even for an EV.
Comfortable front-row seats.
Stress-free highway driving with Super Cruise.

What We Note:

High price for the best suspension and tires.
Third-row seating is not ideal for adults.
Even a great touchscreen isn’t better than physical buttons for some functions.

Favorite Detail:

A regen-on-demand paddle sits behind the left side of the steering wheel. Nearly every other GM electric vehicle has this. The cool part is its pressure sensitivity. It is not just an on/off switch. You can use it as a hand brake. This maximizes regenerative braking. This works even in conventional two-pedal mode driving.

A Premium Electric Family Choice

The 2026 Cadillac Vistiq solidifies Cadillac’s EV commitment. It delivers a stylish and comfortable three-row SUV. Its advanced features, especially Super Cruise, impress. While not the cheapest option, it offers a compelling luxury experience. It truly bridges the gap between smaller EVs and the top-tier Escalade IQ.