2026 Cadillac OPTIQ vs. LYRIQ: Choosing Between Cadillac's Compact and Midsize Electric SUVs

Drivers across Quebec are making the switch to electric, and Cadillac's all-electric SUV lineup offers two distinct choices. The 2026 OPTIQ enters as the compact option, while the LYRIQ continues as the established midsize model. Both deliver the luxury and technology Cadillac is known for, but they serve different driving needs—especially for those navigating Montréal's urban streets and Quebec's highway corridors.

The OPTIQ's compact footprint makes it well-suited for city driving, with a wheelbase that's nearly 15 centimetres shorter than the LYRIQ. This translates to easier parking and tighter turning in dense neighbourhoods like the Plateau or downtown Montréal. The LYRIQ, on the other hand, offers more interior room for passengers and cargo, making it a strong choice for families or drivers who frequently take longer trips outside the city. Both models share Cadillac's 33-inch diagonal LED display and hands-free Super Cruise technology, but their differences in size, range, and price create clear distinctions for buyers at different stages of their decision-making process.

At a Glance: OPTIQ vs. LYRIQ

Size and Maneuverability

The most immediate difference between the OPTIQ and LYRIQ is their physical size. The OPTIQ's 2,946 mm wheelbase sits 148 mm shorter than the LYRIQ's 3,094 mm wheelbase, and its overall length of 4,821 mm is 183 mm less than the LYRIQ's 5,004 mm. For drivers in Montréal, this size difference has practical implications.

The OPTIQ's compact dimensions make it easier to navigate narrow streets, find parking in busy areas, and execute tighter turns. This is particularly helpful in neighbourhoods with limited street parking or when manoeuvring through congested intersections. The LYRIQ, while larger, offers a more spacious interior that accommodates passengers more comfortably on longer drives, such as trips to the Laurentians or along the St. Lawrence River.

Key Differences:

• OPTIQ wheelbase: 2,946 mm (116.0 in) — easier urban handling
• LYRIQ wheelbase: 3,094 mm (121.8 in) — more passenger and cargo space
• OPTIQ overall length: 4,821 mm (189.8 in)
• LYRIQ overall length: 5,004 mm (197.0 in)

Range and Charging

Both the OPTIQ and LYRIQ offer solid electric range for daily driving in Quebec, but they differ slightly in their capabilities. The OPTIQ delivers up to 510 km of range with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 488 km with all-wheel drive (AWD). The LYRIQ provides up to 525 km (RWD) and 513 km (AWD), giving it a slight edge for drivers who make frequent longer trips.

Charging infrastructure continues to expand across Quebec, and both models support DC fast charging. The OPTIQ features a native NACS inlet, providing direct access to over 21,500 DC fast chargers across North America, including Tesla Superchargers. The LYRIQ also supports fast charging and is compatible with expanding public networks, including adapters for Tesla Superchargers.

For home charging, the OPTIQ offers an 11.5 kW onboard charger as standard on Luxury and Sport trims, with an optional 19.2 kW charger available. The LYRIQ provides similar options, with 11.5 kW standard on base trims and 19.2 kW on higher trims. Both models can be charged at home overnight, making them practical for daily use in and around Montréal.

Range Comparison:

• OPTIQ RWD: 510 km
• OPTIQ AWD: 488 km
• LYRIQ RWD: 525 km (est.)
• LYRIQ AWD: 513 km (est.)

Interior Space and Technology

The LYRIQ's larger exterior translates to more interior room. With 1,722 litres of cargo space when the rear seats are folded, the LYRIQ offers 119 litres more than the OPTIQ's 1,603 litres. Rear-seat passengers in the LYRIQ also have more legroom and shoulder room, which can be a deciding factor for families or drivers who frequently carry passengers.

Both models feature Cadillac's 33-inch diagonal LED display, which integrates Google built-in services, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and navigation. The display provides a clear, high-resolution interface for controlling the vehicle's systems, and both models include hands-free Super Cruise technology as standard. Super Cruise allows for hands-free driving on compatible highways across Canada, including major routes in Quebec such as Highway 20 and Highway 40.

Additional technology features shared by both models include HD Surround Vision, Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and a full suite of safety systems such as Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking, and Rear Cross Traffic Braking.

Technology Highlights:

• 33-inch diagonal LED display (both models)
• Hands-free Super Cruise (both models)
• Google built-in, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto (both models)
• HD Surround Vision and advanced safety systems (both models)
• LYRIQ offers more cargo space: 1,722 litres vs. 1,603 litres

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The OPTIQ and LYRIQ offer different power outputs, but both deliver smooth, quiet electric driving. The OPTIQ's RWD configuration produces 315 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD variant increases output to 440 hp and 498 lb-ft. The LYRIQ's RWD model generates 340 hp and approximately 325 lb-ft, and the AWD model boosts power to 515 hp and approximately 450 lb-ft.

The LYRIQ's higher power output translates to quicker acceleration, particularly in the AWD configuration. The LYRIQ AWD can accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in approximately 4.6 seconds, making it one of the more responsive electric SUVs in its class. The OPTIQ, while slightly less powerful, still provides brisk acceleration and responsive handling, with the AWD model offering confident performance in winter conditions common across Quebec.

Both models feature adaptive driving modes, including Tour, Snow/Ice, Sport, and My Mode, which allow drivers to adjust throttle response, steering feel, and braking behaviour. The OPTIQ's smaller size and lighter weight contribute to nimble handling, while the LYRIQ's longer wheelbase provides a more planted feel at highway speeds.

Performance Comparison:

Which Model Is Right for You?

Choosing between the OPTIQ and LYRIQ depends on your driving priorities and lifestyle needs. Here's how to decide:

Choose the OPTIQ if you:

• Live in or frequently drive through urban areas like downtown Montréal, the Plateau, or Old Montréal
• Value easier parking and tighter turning in congested neighbourhoods
• Want to minimize your upfront investment while still accessing Cadillac's luxury and technology
• Drive primarily within the city and surrounding areas, with occasional longer trips

Choose the LYRIQ if you:

• Need more interior space for passengers and cargo
• Frequently take longer trips outside Montréal, such as to the Laurentians, Tremblant, or Quebec City
• Want the highest available power and quickest acceleration in Cadillac's electric SUV lineup
• Prefer a more spacious, highway-focused driving experience

Both models offer the same advanced technology, including the 33-inch display, Super Cruise, and a full suite of safety features. The decision ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize compact urban agility or midsize space and power.

Experience the OPTIQ and LYRIQ at Mont-Royal Cadillac

The 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ and LYRIQ each bring distinct advantages to drivers in Quebec. The OPTIQ's compact size and lower starting price make it an accessible entry point into Cadillac's electric lineup, while the LYRIQ's spacious interior and higher power output cater to drivers who need more room and longer range. Both models deliver the technology, safety, and luxury that define Cadillac's approach to electric vehicles.

Schedule a test drive at Mont-Royal Cadillac in Montréal to compare the OPTIQ and LYRIQ side by side. Our team is ready to walk you through each model's features and help you find the right fit for your driving needs.