Summary
The Vistiq does what the XT6 before it simply couldn’t in the crowded luxury SUV space.
Detailed Review

Cadillac’s lineup of electric SUVs is bigger than any other brand’s.

With the arrival of the three-row 2026 Cadillac Vistiq, there are now four different models to choose from. It’s similar in size to the gas-powered XT6, which is set to be discontinued at the end of the year. That means shoppers who want a three-row SUV from Cadillac will have to choose between the Vistiq or the extra-large — and expensive — Escalade.

Entirely Electric

The all-electric drivetrain that underpins the Vistiq is based on the same Ultium platform as the other electric vehicles (EVs) in Cadillac’s lineup, including the smaller Optiq and Lyriq, and the enormous Escalade IQ. It uses dual permanent-magnet electric motors and a 102-kWh battery that’s supposed to be good for 483 to 491 km on a full charge, depending on the onboard charger’s capacity. It can reach speeds as fast as 190 kW at DC fast-charging stations — in ideal conditions, of course — and has access to Tesla Supercharging stations thanks to an accessory adapter.

With 613 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, the Vistiq can move — especially when the so-called “Velocity Max” mode is activated via a button on the steering wheel.

Shrunken Escalade

The XT6 failed to gain a foothold in the crowded luxury SUV market. It had forgettable styling, an outdated interior, and an uninspiring powertrain — all areas the Vistiq shines. With design language inspired by the half-million-dollar Celestiq, it carries forward a theme that’s become a signature of Cadillac’s EV lineup.

From the large grille that designers joke about looking like the Mandalorian’s helmet to the elegant, drawn-out lines, the Vistiq is modern and elegant. The company says if you feel like you’re looking at a Baby Escalade, you wouldn’t be wrong. That it bears a strong resemblance to the flagship of the lineup is no mistake.

In the flesh, it’s an Escalade sized down by a third; but like the XT6, it strikes a nice balance between size and usable interior space. The third row is perfect for kids, but will seat adults in a pinch.

Luxurious Cabin

The interior resembles those of the Lyriq and Optiq, but adds a centre console screen that offers dedicated switchgear for climate and seat adjustment. The 33-inch curved screen is sharp, and the Google-based operating system is responsive and easy to use; however, the lack of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is disappointing. 

Like a lot of EVs, there’s no power button; instead, the Vistiq is ready to go once the driver is on board, and it turns off when the seat is empty. Bonus points go to Cadillac, however, for including a “vehicle off” switch in the infotainment screen.

Cadillac has stepped it up when it comes to materials and switchgear that feels expensive, and the Vistiq has supple leather upholstery, architecturally inspired metal accents, soft-touch surfaces, and real carbon fibre and open-pore wood trim. It’s expensive, but Cadillac justifies the near six-figure starting price by stuffing the Vistiq full of all the latest technology it has to offer.

Impressive Tech

It starts with the latest version of Super Cruise, Cadillac’s hands-free highway driving software. The system can automatically pass slower vehicles, and even move into the right lane in preparation for an exit before handing off control to the driver. Nearly one million kilometres of mapped roads where hands-free driving is possible are highlighted in the navigation system.

All trims come standard with an excellent stereo equipped with Dolby Atmos, which provides next-level surround sound using 23 strategically placed speakers. The Vistiq also features the brand’s first use of an augmented reality head-up display. It uses lasers and refractive optics to produce vibrant images that look like they’ve been painted on the road. Navigation arrows appear in the distance and get closer as you approach your turn, and the system can even highlight passing cars and pedestrians.

Big Speed, Smooth Ride

Cheaper trims use steel-sprung suspension, while the Premium Luxury or the range-topping Platinum trims ride on air suspension that’s coupled with rear-wheel steering.  None of it’s enough to provide a transformative experience, but the setup comes with a slight edge in comfort and handling while also highlighting how good the base suspension really is.

Indeed, one of the best qualities of the Vistiq is its supple ride even over pockmarked and unpaved roads. It uses noise cancellation to block out unwanted sounds from the road, tires, and wind, and rides on foam-lined tires for an exceptionally quiet cabin. 

There’s no getting around the Vistiq’s weight, and you feel it under heavy braking, but it’s confident around corners and stable at highway speeds. Acceleration is very linear, and you have to push it past the halfway point to really get into the meat of the power. But once you do, hold on — it can hurtle to 100 km/h in less than four seconds.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 Cadillac Vistiq is an excellent luxury SUV that just happens to have an electric drivetrain. It carries forward the momentum Cadillac has had since it launched the Lyriq, although where that EV — as well as the Optiq — emphasizes value, the Vistiq strays away at least a little.

The Vistiq starts at $95,599 — that’s for either the Luxury or Sport trims —  and climbs steeply to $113,399 for the Premium Luxury that adds air suspension, rear-axle steering, and the augmented reality head-up display. Finally, the top-of-the-line Platinum is $120,099. (All prices include a non-negotiable freight charge of $2,600.)

The 2026 Cadillac Vistiq is on sale now.

Meet the Author

Kunal D’souza has been working in the automobile industry for over 15 years, but his obsession with cars goes back much further. From hardcore track specials to weird and quirky vehicles, there’s very little on wheels that doesn’t interest him. His work has appeared in newspapers, websites, and magazines, and he’s made appearances on TV and radio, all in the name of the automobile. When he’s not writing or talking about cars, he can be found working in his garden.