Cadillac, once synonymous with American luxury, is currently navigating an identity crossroads. From the high-performance Blackwing sedans to the imposing Escalade, the brand seems pulled in different directions. Amidst a lineup of less memorable crossovers, the 2024 Cadillac Lyriq emerges as a transformative electric vehicle, signaling a fresh direction for the marque, alongside the forthcoming Celestiq flagship sedan.
The Lyriq, Cadillac’s inaugural EV, bears significant weight as the brand steps into the electric era. Launching amidst fluctuating interest rates and evolving EV demand, the Lyriq’s arrival is timely yet challenging. However, despite its somewhat unconventional name, the Lyriq distinguishes itself as a compelling vehicle. It’s a genuinely appealing electric crossover that prioritizes luxury and inherent quality over fleeting trends or mere acceleration figures, potentially redefining Cadillac’s position in the automotive landscape.
While not without minor imperfections, and with the long-term reliability of the Ultium platform yet to be fully established, the Lyriq stands out as one of the most intriguing luxury EVs currently available, offering a unique blend of style, comfort, and technology.
Cadillac Lyriq Front View
Delving into the Basics of the Cadillac Lyriq
The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq is a newly introduced midsize, two-row electric crossover, built upon General Motors’ advanced modular Ultium EV platform and battery architecture. Each Lyriq is equipped with a substantial 102-kWh battery pack, providing an estimated range exceeding 300 miles and supporting rapid charging up to 190 kW. The base single-motor rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration delivers 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) version, which was the focus of this review, significantly boosts output to 500 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, while also adding a 3,500-pound towing capacity. Considering its considerable weight of nearly three tons with a driver, the Lyriq’s range figures are notably impressive for a vehicle in its class.
Unlike many crossovers that often appear bulky, the Lyriq boasts a sleek and refined aesthetic. Its 16.5-foot length is sculpted with flowing lines and precise creases, culminating in an elongated rear and a gracefully sloping roofline. This design language results in a vehicle that is only marginally longer (by three inches) and noticeably lower (by five and a half inches) than a BMW X5, yet presents a more streamlined and sophisticated silhouette, setting it apart in the competitive luxury EV segment.
Cadillac Lyriq Side Profile
Stepping inside the Lyriq reveals a cabin dominated by a striking 33-inch display, seamlessly integrating infotainment functions while thankfully retaining physical controls for climate adjustments. The steering wheel incorporates traditional buttons for audio alongside touch-capacitive controls for GM’s Super Cruise, a hands-free highway driving assistance system. Notably, the seat adjustment controls are located on the door panels, reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz, a departure from the conventional side-of-seat placement.
Cadillac Lyriq Interior Display
Cadillac Lyriq Interior Front Seats
The Driving Dynamics of the Cadillac Lyriq EV
Effortless cruising is where the Cadillac Lyriq truly excels. While its 500 horsepower is more than adequate for brisk acceleration, even in a vehicle of this size and weight, the Lyriq encourages a relaxed and composed driving style. In contrast to performance-oriented SUVs like the BMW XM or Audi RS Q8, the Lyriq doesn’t attempt to masquerade as a sports car. It firmly establishes itself as a luxury vehicle, prioritizing passenger comfort, a high-fidelity sound system, and exceptional noise isolation from the road. This focus on refinement creates a serene and enjoyable driving environment.
However, the Lyriq is far from lacking in driving capability when pushed. Body control remains composed during more spirited driving, the ride quality is remarkably smooth even with the optional 22-inch wheels, and acceleration is readily available when demanded. The overall driving character leans more towards “grand touring” than outright “sport,” reflected in its light and moderately paced steering – a characteristic that aligns well with its luxury intentions. This deliberate approach demonstrates a clear understanding of its target audience and preferred driving experience.
Cadillac Lyriq Driving View
Cadillac Lyriq Driving on Road
Cadillac Lyriq Front Grille Detail
The review experience included testing GM’s Super Cruise, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system for highways. Easily identifiable by an illuminated black strip at the top of the steering wheel when active, Super Cruise proved to be assertive and confidence-inspiring, surpassing a brief experience with Ford’s BlueCruise. Super Cruise effectively manages speed, lane changes, overtaking, and returning to the original lane. The system’s proficiency suggests that widespread adoption of Super Cruise could significantly enhance highway order and flow.
A minor drawback noted with Super Cruise is its reliance on GM’s integrated Google Maps for navigation. When using smartphone-based navigation apps like CarPlay, Super Cruise lacks awareness of upcoming exits, potentially leading to unwanted lane changes and overtaking maneuvers when the driver might prefer to maintain their current course.
Cadillac Lyriq Super Cruise Steering Wheel
High Points and Minor Drawbacks of the Lyriq
The Cadillac Lyriq’s exterior design is arguably one of its strongest selling points. Its striking aesthetics have garnered considerable public attention, even surpassing reactions to a Maserati Gran Turismo experienced the week prior. The sophisticated Celestial Metallic paint enhances its visual appeal, while the grille design, resembling a collar and bowtie, adds a distinctive touch. The Lyriq’s visual presence resonates across various demographics, from younger individuals to professionals.
Cadillac Lyriq Front Angle View
The interior of the Lyriq arguably surpasses even its exterior in terms of design and execution. It features premium materials, including supple leather, layered wood, and genuine metal accents, completely avoiding artificial carbon fiber. The cabin environment feels luxurious and well-crafted. User interfaces are intuitive, with a balanced mix of touchscreen controls and physical buttons for essential functions. The inclusion of haptic seat feedback for parking sensors and cross-traffic alerts, initially unusual, quickly becomes a valued and effective safety feature, subtly vibrating specific seat areas to indicate the direction of obstacles.
However, the Lyriq does have some minor shortcomings. The sloping roofline, while stylish, does compromise rearward visibility, although a digital rear-view mirror is included to mitigate this. Parking, particularly parallel parking, can be challenging due to the vehicle’s length, slower steering response, and limited sightlines. Additionally, the lack of forward creep and a somewhat relaxed accelerator pedal response can make fine maneuvers in tight parking spaces slightly cumbersome. Furthermore, the CarPlay integration, in the context of the ongoing interface strategy discussions between GM and Apple, utilizes only a portion of the expansive 33-inch screen, which feels like a missed opportunity for full utilization of the display real estate.
Finally, the “Sport” designation for the top trim level seems somewhat incongruous with the Lyriq’s overall character. While the chassis and powertrain are well-tuned, the vehicle’s emphasis on luxury and comfort makes “Platinum” or a similar moniker seem more fitting.
Cadillac Lyriq: Features, Options, and Market Competition
The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq starts at $58,590, including destination charges, for the rear-wheel-drive Tech trim. This base model includes the 33-inch display but omits Super Cruise. The Luxury trim, priced at $62,690, adds Super Cruise, enhanced 19.2-kW AC charging capability, and a panoramic moonroof. All-wheel drive is available as a $3,500 standalone upgrade across trims. The reviewed top-tier Sport 3 AWD model had a sticker price of $78,895, incorporating options like Celestial Metallic paint ($625) and a black roof ($600).
Cadillac Lyriq Rear View
Cadillac Lyriq Charging Port Detail
While approaching $80,000, the Lyriq’s pricing becomes more compelling when compared to its luxury EV competitors. The BMW iX starts at $87,250 with comparable power and range, as do the Mercedes EQE SUV at $74,900 and the Audi Q8 E-Tron at $75,595. The Lexus RZ and Genesis GV70 Electrified, while priced closer to lower Lyriq trims, are smaller and offer less range, making them less direct competitors. The Ultium-based Acura ZDX, positioned as sportier, starts at $74,850 for the Type S guise. The upcoming Audi Q6 E-Tron, with a coupe-like design, is also anticipated to be a close competitor in the segment.
Currently, GM is offering a $7,500 “Ultium Promise Bonus Cash” incentive for Lyriq and Blazer EV buyers who may not qualify for the full federal tax credit. This incentive, however, is not applicable to leases, which do qualify for the federal credit. In a market with increasing EV incentives, potential buyers are encouraged to explore available offers when shopping for a Lyriq.
Range, Charging Capabilities, and Efficiency of the Lyriq EV
The all-wheel-drive Cadillac Lyriq achieves an EPA-estimated range of 307 miles, while rear-drive models are rated up to 314 miles on a full charge. All Lyriq variants support DC fast charging at a maximum rate of 190 kW. Standard models offer 11.5 kW Level 2 AC charging, with an optional upgrade to 19.2 kW, which GM states can add up to 51 miles of range per hour when using a compatible charger.
Cadillac Lyriq Charging Port
Cadillac Lyriq Rear Lights Detail
During the review period, local driving patterns limited the opportunity to fully assess DC fast charging speeds. However, in over 100 miles of mixed driving, only 30% of the battery capacity was consumed, aligning with the claimed 307-mile range. Real-world EV road trips highlight that charging speeds can vary significantly based on charger availability, station load, and network reliability, making the vehicle’s inherent charging capability just one factor in the overall charging experience.
Verdict on the Cadillac Lyriq: Value and Overall Impression
The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq delivers on the expected range, styling, and luxury features for its price point, approaching $80,000 in higher trims. Its visual appeal and premium feel justify its position in the luxury segment. The Lyriq distinguishes itself by prioritizing comfort and developing a distinct character, rather than resorting to sporty pretenses.
While the long-term success of the Ultium platform remains to be fully seen, the Lyriq stands as the most compelling GM-based EV to date. It represents a promising direction for Cadillac, blending modern EV technology with traditional luxury values. If the Lyriq is indicative of Cadillac’s future trajectory, it signals a positive and engaging path forward for the brand in the evolving automotive landscape.
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Cadillac Lyriq Interior Rear Seats
Cadillac Lyriq Interior Dashboard
Cadillac Lyriq Rear Badge Detail
Cadillac Lyriq Front Lights Detail
Cadillac Lyriq Wheels Detail
