Cadillacs Lyriq

Cadillac has embraced the electric vehicle (EV) movement with considerable zeal, introducing four EV models, alongside various upgrades and the limited-edition Celestiq. This gives consumers a wider selection of American luxury electric vehicles compared to other manufacturers like Ford and Stellantis, which offer significantly fewer options. However, the names of Cadillac’s EVs are often peculiar, with the Lyriq SUV marking the brand’s inaugural foray into electrification.

For clarity on their nomenclature, the smallest Cadillac EV is the Optiq SUV, which compares in size to the Chevy Equinox. Following is the Lyriq, matched by the Blazer from GM. Moving up in size, we have the Vistiq, which stands alone in the current GM lineup. Finally, there’s the IQ, which is the electric version of the Escalade. I’ve had the pleasure of driving both the Optiq and Vistiq, both proving to be capable Cadillacs. My exploration now turns to the Lyriq, specifically the high-performance Lyriq-V, presented in a striking red hue.

In Cadillac terminology, “V” signifies speed — and the Lyriq-V embodies this promise. Having previously driven the supercharged Escalade V, I can attest that Cadillac’s performance moniker goes beyond mere fashion; it denotes impressive specifications. With an output of 615 horsepower, the Lyriq-V boasts the quickest 0-60 mph time of any Cadillac production model ever, clocking in at 3.3 seconds.

Although its design might suggest it belongs beside mundane vehicles, the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V is unmistakably a powerhouse, highlighted by its 615 horsepower (compared to the standard RWD model’s 365 and AWD’s 515 horsepower). Additional sporty features include Brembo brakes, 22-inch wheels, an optional carbon fiber package, and a launch mode for maximum takeoff.

So, how does it feel to drive? The Lyriq-V is certainly thrilling — clearly a substantial positive attribute. In contrast to the more exuberant Escalade V, the Lyriq-V is a pleasure to maneuver, albeit slightly subdued in vibe. With an almost silent electric powertrain, the high-profile wheels and luxurious interior create an atmosphere that allows one to shut out the outside noise.

As a performance SUV, it excels; however, with an expansive 102-kilowatt-hour battery, one must be mindful of usage. The estimated range is around 285 miles, but aggressive driving can quickly deplete the battery. For instance, a single 0-60 sprint in “V-Mode” consumed eight miles of range. On the bright side, the Lyriq does respond positively to gentler driving, potentially extending the range closer to 300 miles. Driving a spirited Cadillac should ideally be balanced with a mindful approach — especially given its high potential for performance.

The interior meets high expectations for comfort. Upholstered in Nappa leather, the spacious cabin features a large display, which serves dual purposes as both the infotainment center and the digital dashboard, without being overly distracting. The Lyriq-V is equipped with CarPlay, a welcome addition after GM’s recent shift away from this feature in its EV lineup. The heated and ventilated quilted leather seats provide a premium experience as you command the power of this Cadillac, whether en route to the store or out for a spirited drive.

My passengers shared positive feedback on the cabin atmosphere, with my more reserved brother commenting on the quality of the interior from his passenger seat, chuckling softly when I accelerated briskly from a stoplight.

Alex Hevesy/SlashGear

The Lyriq-V can deliver exhilarating fun on the road. With the “V-Mode” feature, you can optimize the suspension, throttle response, and braking to your liking. Safely enjoying some spirited sprints along the highway, I found the absence of engine noise refreshing, appreciating the instant torque and acceleration that electric driving uniquely provides.

Typically, I don’t fully assess a car’s cargo capacity during reviews as I don’t frequently transport large items. However, during my time with the Lyriq, I had the task of moving, which allowed me to experience its storage capabilities firsthand. With 60.8 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s not as accommodating as a Subaru Outback with its 80.5 cubic feet, but it was sufficient for my needs during the move.

As expected from Cadillac, the pricing reflects its luxury status. The base rear-wheel-drive Lyriq has a starting price of $60,995, while the V-Series model escalates to $83,795. The tested Lyriq-V featured a $5,700 carbon fiber package and $1,225 for the “Radiant Red” paint. The red brake calipers for the V-Series cost an additional $595, with a $100 charge for brake linings. Including the destination fee of $1,495 brings the total to a hefty $92,910.

While there are more affordable EVs available that can offer comparable passenger and cargo space to the Lyriq, its value proposition diminishes when viewed purely through a practical lens. Nevertheless, when comparing luxury performance electric SUVs, the Lyriq-V stands out. Against the highest trim of the BMW iX xDrive60, the Lyriq-V may have a shorter range, yet it provides more horsepower and faster acceleration, noted as being 1.1 seconds better.

The same holds for the Mercedes EQS 550 4Matic, which is pricier and offers slightly better range but less horsepower and slower performance. The EQS does, however, have the option for a tight third row of seats. SUVs like the Rivian R1S Quad and BMW XM outpace the Lyriq-V in both price and design, often exceeding six figures and straying far from conventional standards.

It’s a unique experience to evaluate an electric SUV that takes its role seriously, yet revels in spirited driving when desired. The Lyriq-V offers an exhilarating ride – balancing luxury with substantial power – while boasting a quiet ride. Although it may not check every box for practicality, it undeniably excites the driver behind the wheel, making it a standout choice in the GM electric lineup.