Cadillac Optiq vs Subaru Solterra
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Cadillac Optiq starts from $80,000 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Solterra opens at $76,990. That makes the Subaru Solterra the more affordable entry point by $3,010.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $88,000 and $84,689 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Cadillac Optiq features a 33-inch touchscreen paired with a 33-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Solterra gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Cadillac Optiq stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, ventilated seats, AKG audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Subaru Solterra. The Subaru Solterra counters with Apple CarPlay and V2L. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Cadillac Optiq gets leather upholstery while the Subaru Solterra offers synthetic leather.
Drivetrain
The Cadillac Optiq uses a Electric producing 224kW and 480Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.6 seconds.
The Subaru Solterra responds with a Electric Motor making 252kW and 455Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.9 seconds.
The Subaru Solterra has the clear power advantage at 252kW vs 224kW. In the real-world sprint, the Cadillac Optiq is 2.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 75kWh (Cadillac Optiq) vs 74.7kWh (Subaru Solterra), giving WLTP ranges of 425km and 517km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (Cadillac Optiq) vs 150kW (Subaru Solterra).
Space & Comfort
The Cadillac Optiq measures 4,953mm long on a 3,000mm wheelbase, 263mm longer than the Subaru Solterra at 4,690mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Cadillac Optiq generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 500L in the Cadillac Optiq and 452L in the Subaru Solterra, giving the Cadillac Optiq a 48L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 12.6m
Based on 12.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 150,000km (Cadillac Optiq) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Solterra). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Cadillac Optiq if: You need more boot space, or prefer Cadillac's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Solterra if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Subaru Solterra takes 5 of 8 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Cadillac Optiq has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Cadillac Optiq and Subaru Solterra?
The Subaru Solterra is the cheapest at $76,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Cadillac Optiq by $3,010.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Subaru Solterra has the most range at 517km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Cadillac Optiq accepts the highest DC charging at up to 150kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Subaru Solterra all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Cadillac Optiq has the largest boot at 500L.
Which can tow the most?
The Cadillac Optiq has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Solterra makes the most power at 252kW. The Cadillac Optiq is quickest to 100km/h in 4.6s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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