Overview : 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
The 2024 Lyriq is a significant step forward for Cadillac, showcasing the brand's future direction. However, its on-road behavior is a nod to the company's most iconic luxury sedans. Unlike its competitors, which focus on acceleration and handling, the Lyriq prefers a more relaxed driving experience. This approach is likely to appeal to the brand's loyal customers, who are trading in their aging DTS sedans and SRX crossovers for a more eco-friendly option. While it lacks a Blackwing badge, the Lyriq shares its scalable battery architecture with the formidable GMC Hummer EV pickup truck. Despite this, the Lyriq stands out with its elegant bodywork, giving it a sleek appearance, and its luxurious cabin. A digital display, seamlessly transitioning from a dashboard infotainment screen to behind the steering wheel, adds to its refined feel. With an estimated range of 308 miles per charge, the Lyriq is a competitive EV option, complemented by DC fast charging capabilities that leverage America's growing public EV charging infrastructure.
Price and Variants : 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
For the 2024 Lyriq, Cadillac has simplified its trim lineup to three distinct options, each with an escalating level of equipment. The entry-level Tech model is equipped with a 340-hp single-motor electric powertrain and offers a 308-mile range per charge, down from the previous 312-mile estimate. Moving up to the mid-level Luxury trim unlocks more desirable features, while the top-of-the-line Sport trim boasts an aggressive exterior look with darkened chrome trim and a unique grille treatment.
The base price for the Lyriq is for the Tech trim, which includes a large, curved 33.0-inch digital dashboard display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a fixed glass roof, 20-inch wheels, and faux leather upholstery. However, we suggest upgrading to the Luxury trim for customizable ambient interior lighting, wood interior trim, a heated steering wheel and front seats, and adaptive cruise control. Additionally, the Luxury trim opens up the availability of several desirable options, including Cadillac's Super Cruise hands-free driving system.
For those looking for even more power and capability, the 500-hp Dual Motor AWD model is recommended, boasting a 3500-pound towing capacity. The pricing for the Lyriq is as follows: the Tech trim starts at $58,590, the Luxury trim at $62,690, and the Sport trim at $63,190.
Power and Performance : 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
The Lyriq comes standard with a 340-hp electric motor on the rear axle and rear-wheel drive. While acceleration is adequate and the Lyriq feels responsive, it lacks the powerful feeling of rival SUVs like the BMW iX and the Model X. At test track, the rear-wheel drive Lyriq took 5.7 seconds to reach 60 mph, which is relatively quick for mid-size SUVs, but slower than some of its EV competitors. The optional 500-hp dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain adds a second motor at the front for improved acceleration.
However, the Lyriq may disappoint enthusiast drivers looking for a fun driving experience. While its handling feels stable and competent, it doesn't provide much excitement when pushed hard. The steering is nicely weighted, but lacks tactility, and the brake pedal feels similar. Thankfully, Cadillac has developed an aggressive regenerative braking system that enables one-pedal driving, allowing the driver to slow down by simply lifting off the accelerator pedal in most day-to-day driving scenarios. The suspension is comfortable on smooth roads, but may feel too firm on rougher terrain.
Range, Charging and Battery : 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
General Motors has expanded its lineup of EV battery technology with the introduction of Ultium, which made its debut last year with the Lyriq. This cutting-edge technology offers scalable batteries ranging from 50.0 kWh to 200 kWh, with the largest size intended for use in larger EV pickup trucks like the GMC Hummer EV SUT. The Lyriq's 102.0-kWh battery provides an estimated range of up to 308 miles per charge for the single-motor version and 307 miles for the dual-motor variant. During a highway range test, the single-motor Lyriq was able to drive for up to 270 miles before requiring a recharge. Furthermore, all Lyriq models come equipped with standard DC fast charging capability, and home power outlets can also be used to charge the vehicle. The company has also developed a new battery management system that optimizes performance and maximizes the lifespan of the battery.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Lyriq in rear-wheel drive configuration is rated for 92 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPGe) in the city and 82 MPGe on the highway. During our own test, we managed to achieve 72 MPGe in a combination of city and highway driving, although results may vary based on driving style and conditions. For a more detailed breakdown of the Lyriq's fuel efficiency, interested buyers can consult
the EPA's official website.
Chassis, Dimension and Cargo : 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
The Cadillac Lyriq's chassis is equipped with a multilink suspension system in the front and rear, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for passengers. The braking system features 12.6-inch vented discs in the front and 13.6-inch vented discs in the rear, ensuring reliable stopping power.
The Lyriq rides on Michelin Primacy All-Season tires with a size of 265/50R-20 107H M+S TPC, which provide excellent traction in various weather conditions.
In terms of dimensions, the Lyriq boasts a long wheelbase of 121.8 inches, contributing to its stable handling and comfortable ride. The overall length of the vehicle is 196.7 inches, with a width of 77.8 inches and a height of 63.9 inches. The passenger volume is 107 cubic feet, providing ample space for occupants to stretch out and enjoy the ride. The cargo volume is 28 cubic feet, which is on par with other vehicles in the luxury electric SUV segment.
Despite its luxurious features and technology, the Lyriq is a heavy vehicle with a curb weight of 5,642 pounds. This weight is due in part to the battery pack required for electric power, but it may affect the vehicle's fuel efficiency and handling compared to lighter SUVs.
Exterior : 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
The design of the Cadillac Lyriq is a fusion of modernity and boldness, setting itself apart from the brand's conventional styling. EVs tend to push the boundaries of design, and the Lyriq does just that while maintaining Cadillac's established persona. The front grille, which is adorned with a Black Crystal Shield grille, is a far cry from the traditional Caddy grille, with laser-etched lines that give the appearance of a conventional grille. The vertical LED light clusters, coupled with LED cornering lamps on higher trims, add a distinct look to the front fascia. The rear of the SUV features wraparound LED taillights that extend around the C pillars, adding to the car's overall statement-making design. The Tech and Luxury trims come with 20-inch wheels and a glass roof with a power sunshade, which is upgraded to a panoramic sunroof on higher trims. The Sport trim features dark-finished elements instead of the bright elements on the Tech and Luxury trims. Additionally, the 22-inch wheels on the Sport trim make a bold statement. The power liftgate can be equipped with hands-free functionality, adding convenience to the design.
Interior : 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
The current Cadillacs have evolved significantly over the past decade, and the Lyriq model is no exception. It draws inspiration from the popular Escalade and boasts a stunning interior that is crafted from premium materials, elevating the SUV's overall feel to the truly luxurious level. The build quality is also top-notch, adding to the premium experience. As expected from electric vehicles, the Lyriq is loaded with advanced technology, including a massive 33-inch curved LED display that dominates most of the dashboard. While the display offers excellent resolution, navigating through the numerous standard functions can be overwhelming for new users. Fortunately, voice controls are available to simplify the process. The ambient cabin lighting adds an extra touch of elegance without being ostentatious.
Similar to most midsize SUVs, the Cadillac Lyriq can accommodate up to five passengers inside its cabin. However, being a luxury vehicle, the seats are exceptionally comfortable and highly customizable to the individual's preferences. The interior space is thoughtfully designed, providing front seat passengers with ample headroom at 38.6 inches and legroom at 44.3 inches. Rear passengers can also enjoy a comfortable ride with 39.6 inches of legroom and 37.7 inches of headroom. The Lyriq's decent step-in height makes it easier for passengers to get in and out of the vehicle. Additionally, the highly adjustable front seats feature multiple profiles in the seat memory, allowing different users to quickly tap in or out.
Infotainment and Connectivity : 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
The Cadillac Lyriq boasts a cutting-edge, high-tech dashboard that's sure to impress tech-savvy drivers. It features a massive 33.0-inch curved advanced LED touchscreen, similar to that of the Escalade, which functions as both the infotainment system and the driver's gauge display. This screen dominates the dashboard and provides easy access to a wide range of features, from music and navigation to climate control and vehicle settings.
For drivers who prefer not to use touchscreens, the Lyriq's infotainment system can also be controlled by a click wheel on the center console, providing a more tactile and precise control option. Standard features on the Lyriq's infotainment system include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
As a luxury electric SUV, the Lyriq comes equipped with a premium 19-speaker stereo system from the renowned high-end audio experts at AKG. This sound system is sure to provide an exceptional listening experience, adding to the overall luxury and comfort of the vehicle.
Safety and Warranty : 2024 Cadillac Lyriq
The Cadillac Lyriq is a luxurious electric SUV with a range of safety features that make it a top contender in the premium people hauler segment. The base configuration comes with forward collision avoidance, blind-spot assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keep assist. An optional package includes adaptive cruise control, rear pedestrian alert, and enhanced automatic parking assist.
The Lyriq's Super Cruise hands-free driving system requires a subscription, but the manufacturer has made driver-assistance features standard across all models. Buyers interested in crash test results can check the NHTSA and IIHS websites.
The Lyriq comes with an impressive warranty, including a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty, a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a first dealer maintenance visit currently covered. The electric warranty includes four years/50,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage, eight years/100,000 miles of powertrain coverage, and roadside assistance, with one year of complimentary maintenance coverage that covers the first dealer maintenance visit.
Higher-end sub-trims offer additional safety features such as an inclination sensor and interior movement sensor, electronic stability and traction control, and eight airbags. The Lyriq's reliability has not been extensively surveyed, but there has been one recall for a blank instrument panel display, which is not a critical issue.
