The Lyriq is Cadillac’s first full EV. It is also a full Cadillac, right down to its optional nappa leather and genuine open pore wood décor. A traditional Cadillac buyer could find a Lyriq in the showroom, slip into the driver’s seat and probably not be aware that this is a car designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle. I don’t mean that Cadillac is using any stealth here; I think the approach for this audience is to present new technology in a familiar package.
That is not to say the Lyriq doesn’t stand out. The car’s design clearly labels it as a Cadillac, with signature vertical daytime running lights and prominent (though redesigned) Cadillac badge on the grille. But there is something very new and fresh about the Lyriq’s profile, particularly when the rear section lights up. Carrying on one Cadillac tradition, it is a large car, although it only features two rows of seats.
Another traditional Cadillac feature is power. The Lyriq we drove, a fully optioned all-wheel drive version, featured two motors producing a collective 515 horsepower. There was never a moment, on city streets or freeways, where the Lyriq failed to deliver more than enough motivation.
Another element is added with the Lyriq—efficiency. The car delivered 2.7 mi/kWh, which is a respectable number. GM’s Ultium platform also underpins several of the company’s EVs as well as ones from Honda and Acura.
The ride, the inside, the price
Cadillac has never been known for its sporty demeanor (though the V-series is changing that). The Lyriq delivers a smooth ride, but not the floaty one of the past. The steering feel wasn’t sportscar-like, nor should it be. It was responsive, which is all that is asked of a luxury wagon.
Inside was where the Lyriq shone. The 33-inch curved interior display is not the largest offered in this class, but it is more than sufficient to do the job of giving the driver all the info needed. Controls were clear and easy to manipulate. Buttons and switches were all visible and identifiable.
Finally, it’s down to the price. This is a Cadillac, so a starting price of $58,595 is about what you’d expect. While that entry-level Lyriq is well-appointed, it may not have everything you want or need. All-wheel drive, which is a real nice-to-have for everyday driving and a must-have for places with serious winters, is an extra $3,500. Of course that’s not just driving an extra set of wheels, but also includes a serious bump in horsepower.
Another key feature not available on all trims is GM’s Super Cruise, arguably the premier adaptive cruise control that allows drivers some measure of hands-off driving. It can come as part of a package, but the plan is to offer it as a subscription. After regular use, Cadillac’s betting customers will pay to have it available all the time.
Whatever level you choose, as of this writing the Lyriq still qualifies for the $7,500 federal tax credit as well as several other purchase incentives. That federal spiff may disappear soon, so if that’s a factor in your decision, be prepared to act quickly.
The Lyriq comes in six trim levels—Luxury 1-3 and Sport 1-3. We drove a Sport 3 that came to $81,085 after $12,195 in accessories and $1,395 destination charge. But there are deals. A quick check showed that Cadillac had lease offers starting as low as $519 a month for 36 months with a little less than $5,000 due at signing. Cadillac claims the Lyriq is the best-selling luxury EV, so the brand can be expected to continue this kind of offer to maintain its market lead.
The bottom line—this is a luxury Cadillac EV for those who don’t know if they want an EV. It’s safe, powerful, comfortable and reasonably affordable for this class. We expect it to seduce many Cadillac shoppers into going electric and never looking back.
