Cadillac Lyriq Reviews: Unveiling if This Electric SUV Lives Up to the Hype

The automotive landscape is rapidly shifting, and Cadillac is determined to redefine its legacy in this electric era. Once synonymous with American luxury, Cadillac now navigates a diverse portfolio, from high-performance Blackwing sedans to the iconic Escalade. However, it’s the 2024 Cadillac Lyriq that signals a significant turning point. This all-electric crossover, along with the forthcoming Celestiq flagship sedan, represents Cadillac’s bold step towards an electric future, aiming to recapture its position as a leader in luxury and innovation.

Entering a market grappling with fluctuating EV demand and evolving consumer preferences, the Lyriq faces considerable expectations. Yet, beyond its distinctive name, initial Cadillac Lyriq Reviews suggest a compelling vehicle. It’s not just about chasing acceleration figures or relying on gimmicks; the Lyriq focuses on delivering genuine luxury and substantial quality, potentially placing Cadillac back at the forefront of desirable automobiles.

While not without its imperfections, particularly concerning the long-term viability of the Ultium platform, the Cadillac Lyriq stands out as one of the most intriguing luxury electric vehicles available today.

Cadillac Lyriq: The Fundamentals

The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq is a brand-new, midsize, two-row electric crossover, built upon GM’s advanced Ultium EV platform and battery technology. Every Lyriq is equipped with a substantial 102-kWh battery pack, promising over 300 miles of range and supporting rapid charging up to 190 kW. The base rear-wheel-drive configuration delivers 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The all-wheel-drive version, which was the model tested, significantly boosts output to 500 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, while also adding a 3,500-pound towing capacity. Considering its nearly three-ton weight with a driver, these performance figures are quite impressive.

Unlike many bulky crossovers, the Lyriq presents a streamlined and elegant profile. Its sculpted form stretches over 16.5 feet, characterized by flowing lines, a long rear, and a gently sloping roof. This design results in a vehicle that is only slightly longer and notably shorter than a BMW X5, yet exudes a more refined and sophisticated aesthetic.

Inside, the Lyriq’s focal point is a massive 33-inch screen that integrates all infotainment functionalities, thankfully keeping physical controls for climate settings. The steering wheel includes traditional audio controls along with touch-sensitive buttons for GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system. Interestingly, the seat adjustment controls are located on the door panels, reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz design.

Driving Experience: Cadillac Lyriq on the Road

Effortless cruising is where the Cadillac Lyriq truly excels. While the 500 horsepower output ensures brisk acceleration, even for a vehicle of this size, the overall driving experience promotes relaxation and comfort. Unlike performance-oriented SUVs that try to mimic sports cars, the Lyriq embraces its identity as a luxury vehicle. From the exceptionally comfortable seats to the premium sound system and minimal road noise intrusion, the Lyriq prioritizes a serene and refined driving environment.

However, this doesn’t imply lackluster handling. The Lyriq manages body movements effectively, offers a smooth ride even with the optional 22-inch wheels, and delivers quick acceleration when demanded. Its driving character leans more towards “grand touring” than “sport,” evidenced by the light and somewhat slow steering response, which is perfectly appropriate for its luxury focus. It encourages a composed and confident driving style.

The review also highlighted GM’s Super Cruise, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving aid, which proved to be impressive. Identified by an illuminated black strip at the top of the steering wheel when active, Super Cruise feels more confident and proactive compared to Ford’s BlueCruise system. It manages speed, lane changes, overtaking, and returning to the original lane efficiently. If widely adopted, systems like Super Cruise could significantly improve highway driving orderliness.

A noted limitation of Super Cruise is its reliance on GM’s integrated Google Maps for navigation. Using smartphone-based navigation apps like CarPlay means Super Cruise won’t anticipate upcoming exits, potentially leading to unwanted lane changes when the driver intends to exit soon.

Cadillac Lyriq: High Points and Minor Drawbacks

The Cadillac Lyriq’s design is undeniably striking and has garnered widespread positive attention. Surprisingly, it attracted more compliments than a Maserati Gran Turismo encountered the previous week, from diverse demographics. The Celestial Metallic paint enhances its visual appeal, and the front-end design, resembling a collar and bowtie, is particularly distinctive.

The interior quality of the Lyriq arguably surpasses its exterior, featuring premium materials and supportive seating. The cabin avoids faux carbon fiber, opting for genuine leather, layered wood, and metal accents. The user interface is intuitive, with sufficient physical buttons for essential functions. The haptic seat feedback for parking sensors and cross-traffic alerts is a unique and effective feature, quickly becoming a natural aid.

Despite these strengths, the Lyriq has some drawbacks. The sloping roofline reduces rearward visibility, although a digital rearview mirror is included. Its length, combined with slow steering and limited sightlines, makes parallel parking challenging. The lack of forward creep and a less responsive accelerator pedal can complicate minor parking adjustments. Furthermore, Apple CarPlay integration utilizes only half of the expansive 33-inch screen, a consequence of the ongoing tension between GM and Apple regarding in-car technology integration.

Finally, the “Sport” designation in the top trim name seems misapplied. While the chassis and powertrain are well-tuned, the vehicle’s character is far from sporty. A more fitting name like “Platinum” would better reflect its luxury focus.

Features, Options, and Market Competition for the Cadillac Lyriq

The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq starts at $58,590, including destination charges, for the rear-wheel-drive Tech trim, which includes the 33-inch display but excludes Super Cruise. Upgrading to the Luxury trim at $62,690 adds Super Cruise, 19.2-kW AC charging capability, and a panoramic moonroof. All-wheel drive is a $3,500 standalone option. The fully loaded Sport 3 AWD model tested reached $78,895, including premium paint and a black roof.

Compared to competitors, the Lyriq presents a compelling value proposition. The BMW iX starts at a higher price with similar performance and range, as do the Mercedes EQE SUV and Audi Q8 E-Tron. While the Lexus RZ and Genesis GV70 Electrified are priced closer to lower Lyriq trims, they lack the size and range to directly compete. The Acura ZDX, another Ultium-based EV, is positioned with a sportier focus. The upcoming Audi Q6 E-Tron coupe is also expected to be a close competitor.

Currently, GM offers a $7,500 “Ultium Promise Bonus Cash” discount for Lyriq and Blazer EV buyers who may not qualify for the full federal tax credit. This incentive, along with other potential EV incentives from various manufacturers and dealerships, makes shopping around for the best deal advisable.

Cadillac Lyriq: Range, Charging Performance, and Efficiency

The all-wheel-drive Cadillac Lyriq achieves an EPA-estimated range of 307 miles, with rear-drive models rated slightly higher at 314 miles. All Lyriq versions support DC fast charging up to 190 kW. Standard models offer 11.5 kW Level 2 AC charging, with an upgrade to 19.2 kW available, potentially adding up to 51 miles of range per hour with a compatible charger.

Real-world charging experiences can vary significantly based on charger availability, network reliability, and usage at charging stations. During the test drive, the Lyriq’s energy consumption aligned with its claimed 307-mile range, using only 30% of the battery capacity over 100 miles of driving.

Final Verdict: Cadillac Lyriq Review – Is it Worth It?

The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq delivers on its promises of range, style, and luxury, aligning with expectations for a vehicle in its price range. It presents a premium feel and appearance, justifying its price point. Its appeal lies in its emphasis on comfort and refinement, setting it apart from EVs that prioritize sportiness above all else.

While the long-term success of the Ultium platform remains to be seen, the Lyriq is arguably the most convincing GM-based EV to date. If the Lyriq represents Cadillac’s future direction, it’s a promising start, making a strong case for the brand’s resurgence in the luxury EV market.