The 2026 Cadillac Vistiq is here to redefine what a midsize three-row luxury SUV can be. As Cadillac’s latest all-electric offering, built on the advanced Ultium battery platform, the Vistiq replaces the gas-powered XT6 with bold ambitions: to deliver Escalade-like opulence in a more manageable package. I recently had the chance to test drive this baby Escalade in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and I’m excited to share a detailed review of its design, performance, technology, and practicality. Whether you’re a family seeking a premium EV or a luxury enthusiast eyeing Cadillac’s electric future, this review will help you decide if the Vistiq is your next ride.

Exterior Design: Baby Escalade Vibes Done Right

The Cadillac Vistiq’s exterior screams sophistication with a nod to its larger sibling, the Escalade IQ. At just over 205 inches long, it’s about 7 inches longer than the outgoing XT6, yet 20 inches shorter than the Escalade IQ, striking a balance between presence and practicality. The opulent blue metallic paint ($625 extra) enhances its sleek, modern aesthetic, complemented by Cadillac’s signature “art and science” design language.

Key highlights include the illuminated, wreathless crest logo and a crest-shaped grille with LED light accents that perform a choreographed dance when you start the vehicle. Full LED headlights with a stacked arrangement and sequential turn signals add a distinctive flair. The premium luxury trim I tested came with 22-inch wheels wrapped in 295-width Goodyear all-season tires, though 21-inch and 23-inch options are available. The Platinum trim swaps gloss black accents for a full paint finish, elevating the upscale look. Adaptive air suspension, standard on higher trims, lets you raise or lower the vehicle for style or practicality.

From the side, aerodynamic roof rails and a panoramic glass sunroof (which opens for ventilation—a rarity in EVs) add functionality. The rear, with sequential taillights, a hidden wiper, and a power liftgate, reinforces the Escalade resemblance. The “900E4” badge denotes 650 lb-ft of torque (in Newton-meters) and all-wheel drive, making the Vistiq a head-turner that blends heritage with futuristic flair.

Interior: A Tech-Laden, Luxurious Haven

Step inside, and the Vistiq’s interior feels like a tech-forward sanctuary. The premium luxury trim I tested featured a Phantom Blue Nuvalux (vegan leather) interior with quilted stitching and contrast piping. Despite being synthetic, it feels plush and premium, rivaling real leather. Every trim gets heated, ventilated, and massaging seats with 16-way adjustments—unheard of at this price point. The Alcantara headliner, matte brown wood trim, and ambient lighting elevate the cabin’s sophistication.

A curved 33-inch OLED display dominates the dashboard, running Android Automotive with Google built-in. While it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (a GM quirk for EVs), the Google Maps integration with EV route planning is seamless, showing nearby chargers and estimated charge times. The augmented reality heads-up display and night vision camera (premium luxury trim) add a futuristic edge, though polarized sunglasses can dim the HUD slightly.

The five-zone climate control—covering the driver, front passenger, second row, and third row—is a standout, with a 7-inch touchscreen for rear passengers to tweak settings. A 23-speaker AKG audio system with Dolby Atmos delivers crisp sound, perfect for audiophiles. Storage is ample, with dual wireless charging pads, USB-C ports, a deep center console, and door pockets for large water bottles. The digital rearview mirror and 360-degree camera enhance visibility, though the lack of a soft-close door on lower trims is a minor miss

Second and Third-Row Comfort: Family-Friendly Flexibility

The Vistiq’s three-row layout is designed for families, though it’s not the roomiest in its class. The second row, with standard captain’s chairs in the premium luxury trim (a $800 upgrade on lower trims), offers over 40 inches of legroom and a flat floor for easy movement. Heated seats, USB-C ports, a 12-volt outlet, and pull-out cupholders add convenience, but the lack of cooled seats and retractable sunshades is noticeable.

Accessing the third row is a breeze with a one-touch button that tilts and slides the second-row seats, even with a child seat installed. The third row provides about 30 inches of legroom, adequate for kids or average-sized adults, though sliding the second row forward maximizes space. A separate glass panel over the third row lets in light, but the fixed tint could be darker for sun protection. Third-row air vents, USB-C ports, and padded leather keep passengers comfortable, though the seats don’t recline.

Cargo space is a step up from the XT6, with 15 cubic feet behind the third row, 43 cubic feet with it folded, and over 80 cubic feet with all seats down. A deep underfloor storage compartment compensates for the surprising lack of a frunk, though I wish Cadillac had utilized the front space for extra storage.

Performance: Blistering Power in a Family SUV

The Vistiq’s dual electric motors deliver a jaw-dropping 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the quickest three-row SUVs on the market. In VMAX mode, it hits 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds (I clocked 4.02 seconds uphill, 4.09 on level ground), outpacing the Volvo EX90 and leaving gas-powered XT6 owners in the dust. The one-speed transmission ensures instant torque, making merges and overtakes effortless.

Weighing 6,300 pounds, the Vistiq is hefty but feels nimble thanks to four-wheel steering (premium luxury trim) and adaptive air suspension. The ride is plush, soaking up bumps better than the Escalade IQ, with the 22-inch wheels striking a sweet spot for comfort. One-pedal driving is smooth, though the “high” regen setting felt too aggressive for my taste. The steering is precise for a crossover, though tuned for comfort over sportiness. A top speed of 130 mph and 5,000-pound towing capacity add versatility, but don’t expect track-day thrills—this is a family hauler first.

Range and Charging: Solid but Not Class-Leading

The Vistiq’s 102 kWh battery pack delivers an EPA-estimated 300-305 miles of range (300 with the 19.2 kW onboard charger). In my test at 70% charge, it showed 212 miles, suggesting real-world performance aligns with estimates. City driving with regenerative braking boosts efficiency, while highway trips may dip closer to 280 miles. Compared to rivals like the Rivian R1S or Lucid Gravity (both over 400 miles), the Vistiq’s range is adequate but not exceptional.

Charging speeds are decent, with 190 kW DC fast charging adding 80 miles in 10 minutes or 10-80% in 35-40 minutes. The 19.2 kW onboard charger supports level 2 charging in under 8 hours, while the 11.2 kW option takes over 10 hours. The J1772/CCS combo port will eventually switch to NACS, aligning with industry trends. While not the fastest charger, the Vistiq’s infrastructure is practical for most owners.

Technology and Safety: Cutting-Edge Features

The Vistiq is a tech powerhouse, with Cadillac’s next-generation Super Cruise leading the pack. This hands-free driving system, standard across trims, now includes lane guidance that adjusts for upcoming turns, making highway drives effortless. The driver-monitoring camera ensures safety, and the system engages smoothly. Other highlights include:

• 33-inch OLED display: Crisp, customizable, and intuitive.
• Augmented reality HUD: Overlays navigation cues for a 3D effect.
• Night vision camera: Enhances low-light safety (premium luxury trim).
• 23-speaker AKG audio: Dolby Atmos for immersive sound.
• Five-zone climate control: Personalized comfort for all rows.

The lack of wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is a drawback, but Google’s ecosystem is robust, with Spotify and GPS integration. Safety features like dual-channel ABS, a 360-degree camera, and adaptive cruise control make the Vistiq a secure family hauler.

Pricing and Value: Premium but Competitive

Starting at $77,300 for the Luxury trim, the Vistiq is well-equipped with massaging seats, Super Cruise, and a panoramic sunroof. The Sport trim adds $500, while the Premium Luxury trim I tested (around $94,500 with options) includes adaptive air suspension, four-wheel steering, and a HUD. The Platinum trim, about $5,000 more, adds Brembo brakes and a full paint finish.

Compared to rivals like the Volvo EX90, Tesla Model X, or Rivian R1S, the Vistiq offers more standard luxury features at a lower price than the Escalade IQ ($130,000+). While cheaper options like the Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 9 start around $20,000 less, they lack the Vistiq’s opulence. For families seeking a balance of tech, performance, and prestige, the Vistiq is a compelling value.

Things to Consider

The Vistiq isn’t flawless. The lack of a frunk is a missed opportunity, and third-row space lags behind competitors like the Rivian R1S. The absence of cooled second-row seats, retractable sunshades, and wireless phone integration may irk some buyers. Charging speeds and range, while solid, don’t lead the pack. Finally, the thick A-pillar and rear headrests slightly hamper visibility, though the digital rearview mirror helps.

Final Verdict: Is the Cadillac Vistiq Worth It?

The 2026 Cadillac Vistiq is a triumph for families craving a luxurious, tech-packed, and powerful electric SUV without the bulk of the Escalade IQ. Its stunning design, plush interior, blistering 615-horsepower performance, and advanced features like Super Cruise make it a standout in the midsize luxury EV segment. While it could use a frunk, more third-row space, and wireless phone integration, the Vistiq nails the balance of style, comfort, and practicality.

If you’re upgrading from an XT6 or seeking a premium three-row EV, the Vistiq is a must-test-drive. It’s available now at dealerships, starting at $77,300, and delivers Escalade-level luxury in a family-friendly package. Ready to experience Cadillac’s electric future? The Vistiq is waiting.

About the Author

Jake “The Bike Nut” Harrison
Jake Harrison is a passionate automotive and motorcycle enthusiast with over ten years of experience reviewing vehicles. From electric SUVs to classic bikes, Jake’s hands-on tests and detailed insights help readers make informed choices. When he’s not behind the wheel or handlebars, he’s sharing tips to fuel your love for the open road. Got questions about the Vistiq? Reach out—he’s always up for a chat!