The New Benchmark for Luxury Electric SUVs: 2027 Cadillac Vistiq

2027 Cadillac Vistiq Revealed: Is This $78,790 Luxury EV the Ultimate Tesla Model X Killer?
Image: 2027 Cadillac Vistiq Revealed: Is This $78,790 Luxury EV the Ultimate Tesla Model X Killer? – Performance and Specifications
Cadillac is officially filling the final gap in its electric ‘IQ’ portfolio. Positioned strategically between the mid-size Lyriq and the behemoth Escalade IQ, the 2027 Cadillac Vistiq has arrived with a starting price of $78,790. This three-row luxury SUV isn’t just a larger Lyriq; it is a statement of intent from General Motors to dominate the premium family segment. With a 300-mile range and a cockpit that rivals a private jet, the Vistiq is designed for those who find the Kia EV9 too mainstream and the Tesla Model X too minimalist.
Design and Exterior Presence
The 2027 Vistiq carries the unmistakable DNA of the Cadillac ‘IQ’ series. At the front, the signature ‘Black Crystal Shield’ grille is flanked by vertical LED headlights that perform a choreographed sequence upon approach. The silhouette is more traditional than the Lyriq, prioritizing third-row headroom and cargo space. Owners can choose between 21-inch, 22-inch, or massive 23-inch wheels, giving the Vistiq a commanding stance that easily rivals the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV.
Performance, Power, and the Ultium Platform
Underpinned by GM’s flexible Ultium Platform, the Vistiq comes standard with a dual-motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD) setup. This configuration produces a staggering 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. For those who need a bit of adrenaline during the school run, the ‘Velocity Max’ mode allows this heavy cruiser to sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds.
Battery Life and Charging Capabilities
Equipped with a 102-kWh battery pack, Cadillac estimates a range of 300 miles on a full charge. While some competitors push for 350+ miles, the Vistiq focuses on charging efficiency. With DC Fast Charging, it can add roughly 79 miles of range in just 10 minutes. It also features ‘Vehicle-to-Home’ (V2H) bi-directional charging, allowing the car to power your house during a blackout.
Interior Tech: The 33-Inch Command Center
Stepping inside the Vistiq is like entering a digital sanctuary. The dashboard is dominated by a 33-inch diagonal advanced LED display that integrates the instrument cluster and infotainment into one seamless, curved pane. Real wood veneers, carbon fiber accents, and premium fabrics replace the sea of plastic found in many modern EVs.
Seating and Cargo Versatility
As a dedicated three-row SUV, the Vistiq offers genuine comfort for seven passengers. The third row isn’t just for children; it features its own padded armrests, USB-C ports, and dedicated climate vents. With the seats folded flat, the Vistiq transforms into a cavernous hauler, making it the perfect companion for long family road trips.
Safety Ratings and Driver Assistance
While official NCAP and IIHS ratings are pending for the 2027 model year, Cadillac has packed the Vistiq with every safety tech in its arsenal. Most notably, the Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance system comes standard for three years. Other features include Blind Zone Steering Assist, Forward Collision Alert, and a sophisticated Night Vision camera system.
Market Comparison: Vistiq vs. The Competition
To understand where the Vistiq stands, we must look at its two closest rivals for the 2026-2027 production cycle: the Kia EV9 (the value king) and the Rivian R1S (the off-road specialist).
| Feature | 2027 Cadillac Vistiq | 2026 Kia EV9 GT-Line | 2026 Rivian R1S (Dual-Motor) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $78,790 | $73,900 | $75,900 |
| Horsepower | 615 hp | 379 hp | 533 hp |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.7 sec | 4.5 sec | 4.5 sec |
| Range (Est) | 300 Miles | 270 Miles | 315 Miles |
| Max Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 7,700 lbs |
Full Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Drive Type | Dual-Motor AWD |
| Battery Capacity | 102 kWh (Lithium-Ion) |
| Peak Torque | 650 lb-ft |
| On-board Charger | 19.2 kW (AC) |
| Suspension | Active Chassis w/ Air Ride |
| Audio System | 23-Speaker AKG Studio Reference |
Variant-Wise Pricing (Ex-Showroom Est.)
| Variant | Estimated Price (USD) | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury | $78,790 | Super Cruise, 21-inch wheels |
| Premium Luxury | $82,790 | Pano Roof, Adaptive Cruise |
| Sport | $86,790 | Blacked-out trim, 22-inch wheels |
| Platinum | $92,000 | Semi-Aniline Leather, Air Suspension |
People Also Ask (FAQs)
- When will the 2027 Cadillac Vistiq be available? Production starts in early 2025, with deliveries expected by mid-2026.
- How much does the Cadillac Vistiq cost? The base Luxury trim starts at $78,790.
- What is the range of the Vistiq? Cadillac estimates a 300-mile range per full charge.
- Is the Cadillac Vistiq a 7-seater? Yes, it comes with a standard three-row configuration for 7 passengers.
- Does the Vistiq have Super Cruise? Yes, Super Cruise is standard on all trims for the first three years.
- How fast is the Cadillac Vistiq? It can reach 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds using Velocity Max mode.
- What is the towing capacity? The Vistiq is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds.
- Where is the Cadillac Vistiq manufactured? It will be built at GM’s Spring Hill, Tennessee assembly plant.
- Does it support Apple CarPlay? No, like all new GM EVs, it uses a Google-based native infotainment system without CarPlay/Android Auto.
- What are the main rivals? The Kia EV9, Rivian R1S, and Tesla Model X.
The Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The 2027 Cadillac Vistiq is the most logical EV in Cadillac’s lineup. It offers the space families need without the intimidating size (or price) of the Escalade IQ. While the lack of Apple CarPlay remains a point of contention for many users on forums like Reddit and Cadillac Society, the sheer quality of the interior materials and the power of the Ultium drivetrain make it a compelling choice.
Pros
- Impressive 615 hp performance.
- World-class 33-inch LED display.
- Standard Super Cruise technology.
- Superior interior luxury compared to Tesla.
Cons
- No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
- Range is slightly lower than Rivian R1S.
- Heavy curb weight affects handling agility.