Designed for the modern luxury SUV market, the 2024 Cadillac Lyriq promises elegance, innovation, and sustainable power without compromising comfort. As Cadillac’s first all-electric model, this vehicle aims to strike the right balance between classic luxury features and the latest technology.
Striking Design: Elegance Meets Modernity
At first glance, the Lyriq is unmistakably Cadillac. Its sleek, lower profile stands out from Cadillac’s gas-powered XT models, with proportions that feel intentional and refined. Compared to the XT5, the Lyriq is longer, lower, and wider, giving it a bold, aggressive stance. The seven-inch ground clearance ensures practicality, offering flexibility for urban or highway adventures without sacrificing a sporty, low-slung appearance. Even with its eye-catching polished 22-inch wheels on higher trims, the Lyriq is not a vehicle designed for rugged off-roading—but it looks spectacular cruising the streets.
From its LED cornering headlights to its hands-free power liftgate, every detail speaks to Cadillac’s attention to luxury. Optional exterior finishes, such as the Nimbus Metallic blue and a black-painted roof, add to the customization appeal. Inside, ambient lighting in 26 different colors and meticulously designed controls deliver a sense of refinement, though some materials—like piano black panels—can attract fingerprints.
Performance and Range: A Balanced Approach
The Lyriq aims for comfort and effortless cruising over raw speed. In its base rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration, the SUV produces 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, with a 102 kWh battery providing an EPA-estimated range of 314 miles. Real-world testing suggests a slightly more conservative range of around 255 miles, depending on driving conditions. For those seeking additional power, the all-wheel drive (AWD) version adds a second motor, increasing output to 500 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. However, this enhanced performance reduces the range slightly to 307 miles.
Despite its power, the Lyriq’s driving experience is more about smooth acceleration than heart-pounding speed. While it isn’t designed to compete with performance-focused EVs like the Tesla Model Y, the instant torque offers a satisfying burst from stoplights. At over 5,500 pounds, the Lyriq is no lightweight, but its five-link suspension system and passive dampers ensure a smooth, composed ride for both driver and passengers.
Cabin Comfort: A Quiet, Thoughtful Space
Inside the Lyriq, Cadillac prioritizes comfort and luxury with an array of thoughtful touches. The cabin seats five and comes standard with Inteluxe synthetic leather, though higher trims offer genuine Nappa leather. Front seat heating, ventilation, and even massage functionality are available in the Luxury trims, ensuring a premium experience. Passengers will appreciate the expansive glass panoramic roof, which comes standard across all trims and enhances the airy feel of the interior.
A 33-inch, curved dashboard display is the centerpiece of the cabin. It integrates Cadillac’s Google Built-In infotainment system, which features 5G connectivity and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional AKG 19-speaker audio, available on the Luxury 2 trim and above, delivers crisp sound while active noise cancellation ensures a tranquil ride. Rear-seat passengers won’t be overlooked either, thanks to tri-zone climate control on higher trims.
Cargo capacity is respectable, with 28 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats, expanding to 60.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. Although the Lyriq prioritizes style, it maintains enough practicality for daily life, road trips, or a weekend getaway.
Super Cruise and Driving Tech: A New Era of Hands-Free Travel
The 2024 Lyriq is equipped with Cadillac’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system, offered on Luxury 2 trims and above. This technology shines on highways, allowing for stress-free cruising on mapped routes. However, some drivers have noted issues on certain road surfaces, particularly grooved concrete, where the vehicle’s lane-keeping can become wobbly. Cadillac has acknowledged this issue and is working on software improvements to enhance Super Cruise’s performance over time.
For safety, the Lyriq includes features like enhanced automatic emergency braking, blind zone steering assist, and reverse automatic braking. AWD models also have a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, giving the Lyriq some added utility for those needing to haul light loads.
Charging and Range Management: Practical and Future-Proof
Charging the Lyriq is a straightforward process. It comes with an 11.5 kW onboard AC charger, which adds about 31 miles of range per hour. Buyers can upgrade to a 19.2 kW charger for $1,480, which speeds up charging to 51 miles of range per hour when using a compatible home station. For road trips, the Lyriq supports 190 kW DC fast charging, allowing it to add 77 miles of range in just 10 minutes.
While Cadillac currently uses the CCS charging standard, the automaker plans to introduce NACS compatibility by 2025, making the Lyriq compatible with Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. This future-proofing will further enhance the convenience of ownership.
A Compelling Luxury EV for the Modern Driver
The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq successfully blends Cadillac’s signature luxury with the benefits of electric power. It may not be the fastest EV on the road, but it excels where it matters most—providing a comfortable, stylish, and quiet driving experience.
While it has a few quirks, Cadillac has positioned the Lyriq as a gateway to EV ownership that appeals to both loyal Cadillac customers and new buyers alike. As Cadillac refines its EV technology and expands its offerings, the Lyriq sets a promising foundation for the brand’s electric future. It’s not just an EV—it’s a Cadillac, through and through.