Quickest Cadillac: Lyriq-V
Cadillac’s V-series vehicles, like the CT4-V and CT5-V, have a well-earned reputation in car enthusiast circles for their exceptional power, performance, and handling. Now, the American luxury brand is applying the V treatment to its electric Lyriq SUV, and the result is the quickest-accelerating Cadillac in history.
Of course, like other V-series models, the Lyriq-V, as the new high-performance SUV is known, isn’t just about speed. It wraps its impressive performance in Cadillac’s signature style, with a luxurious, tech-packed interior. Let’s take a look at this exciting new entry.
Cadillac Lyriq-V Performance
The Lyriq-V combines luxury, tech, and performance in a unique way, made possible by its electric architecture. Thanks to the 102-kWh battery being positioned low in the rigid body structure, it has a low center of gravity and a solid foundation for great handling. Cadillac says that its team was able to improve the standard Lyriq’s suspension to achieve additional precision for performance driving, while also improving the level of isolation and calm you would expect from a Cadillac.
Changes include a lower, multi-link suspension, Brembo high-performance front brakes, a quicker steering ratio, and continuously variable dampers. Cadillac says these will provide a more comfortable ride, but also more spirited handling; this should be a smooth and effortless EV to drive, but with a strong connection to the road.
The headline figures, of course, are the 615 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque generated by dual electric motors, which will deliver a powerful surge of acceleration. Driving modes include V-Mode, which allows drivers to save their favorite performance-focused settings, including a new “competitive” mode. Engaging V mode is easy thanks to a dedicated button on the steering wheel, letting drivers dial up the fun with one touch.
There is also a Velocity Max feature that Cadillac says “unleashes the vehicle’s full performance capability,” as well as a lunch control function that delivers maximum acceleration in a straight line. With launch control engaged, the Lyriq-V will rip to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds.
Cadillac hasn’t ignored the emotional element of performance, either. The company claims that a unique, multi-layered sound experience synchronizes sounds inside and outside to make the Lyriq-V more exciting to drive, creating an almost orchestral experience while V mode activates a different sound experience for performance driving.
Inside the Cadillac Lyriq-V
The performance orientation of the Lyriq-V is obvious inside its spacious cabin, which includes numerous sporty details along with cutting-edge tech. Like all Lyriq models, there is a large panoramic glass roof, a 23-speaker AKG audio system with Dolby Atmos surround-sound, and a giant 33-inch LED display for both driver information and infotainment.
A new addition to the Lyriq-V is a dual-plane head-up display with augmented reality, which can project navigation directions directly onto the road ahead. Other interior upgrades include a unique steering wheel with V-series logo and the all-important V-mode button, as well as a regeneration-on-demand paddle to let drivers easily control the level of brake regeneration.
Power-adjustable bolsters on the front seats let the driver and front passenger get snug for carving corners, while unique embroidery on the Nappa leather seats, paperwood trim elements and illuminated sill plates offer pure Cadillac luxury.
Cadillac Lyriq-V Design
On the outside, the Lyriq-V distinguishes itself from the sleek, aerodynamic standard Lyriq with a more aggressive lower front fascia, deeper side sills, body-colored lower trim, and even carbon-fiber accents.
The illuminated “shield” up front, standing in for the grille you’d normally find on a gasoline Cadillac, integrates signature choreographed lighting and has a new black, crystal-look finish. A black roof is also standard on the Lyriq, which is available with a few exclusive colors, including a matte-finish Magnus Metal Frost.
Of course, there are little V-series logos on the doors and the tailgate, in addition to a special V-pattern mesh used for grille openings. Giant 22-inch wheels have a dark, sporty finish with etched logos and a choice of all-season or summer high-performance tires.
How Much Does the Cadillac Lyriq-V Cost?
The starting MSRP for the Cadillac Lyriq-V is $79,990, including destination freight charge, which is impressively good value for its level of performance. For a small price premium, it offers substantially more performance than the Audi SQ6 e-tron, and it’s tens of thousands of dollars cheaper than the 630-hp Porsche Macan Turbo EV, while offering more interior space and more standard equipment.
Cadillac’s suite of tech is arguably class-leading, with the Lyriq-V featuring standard Super Cruise, General Motors’ excellent hands-free driver assistance system, and the EPA-estimated 285 miles of range is class-competitive with other, similarly-powerful electric SUVs.
We think the Lyriq-V does a great job of uniting luxury, tech, and performance all under one roof, and are excited to get behind the wheel soon. Production begins in early 2025 at GM’s Spring Hill, Tennessee manufacturing plant.
