Inside the Luxurious Cabin
When you step inside the Cadillac Lyriq, it’s immediately clear that this electric SUV is all about luxury. The attention to detail in the interior design is impressive, with high-quality materials and a sense of elegance that rivals even more expensive vehicles. Despite its hefty price tag, the Lyriq’s interior feels worth every penny.
One of the standout features is the massive 33-inch display, which is both visually striking and highly functional. While the infotainment system had some issues in the Lyriq’s platform-mate, the Blazer EV, Cadillac’s system runs smoothly and seamlessly. It retains wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, as well as GM’s Android Automotive software, which allows you to log in to your Google account. Although there was a slight delay in accessing the native Google Maps navigation system, it operated flawlessly for the rest of the week.
Getting comfortable in the Lyriq may take a moment to adjust if you’re used to other Cadillac interiors. The unique steering wheel buttons and door-mounted seat controls are a departure from the norm, but they offer easy access to a range of features. Cadillac has included physical controls for every frequently used function, making it intuitive for both long-time Cadillac buyers and those new to electric vehicles.
Driving Experience
The driving experience of the Cadillac Lyriq is where it truly shines. The slower steering rack may take some getting used to, as it requires more effort to maneuver at low speeds. However, this deliberate design choice provides a smooth and stable feel at higher speeds. While a quicker rack might make the car feel more agile, the Lyriq’s easy-going steering is well-suited for highway driving.
With 500 horsepower under the hood, you might expect the Lyriq to be a high-performance thrill ride. However, Cadillac has intentionally tuned the acceleration to be more gradual and controlled. While you can still enjoy quick bursts of speed, the Lyriq prioritizes a smooth and comfortable driving experience over outright performance. This approach sets it apart from other electric SUVs that emphasize raw power.
On the road, the Lyriq offers a respectable ride quality, striking a balance between comfort and handling. While it may not be as plush as some Mercedes or BMW EVs, it provides a pleasant driving experience. Pushing the chassis to its limits reveals that the Lyriq’s weight is noticeable in corners and under heavy braking. It handles twisty roads competently but prefers cruising in a straight line. Nevertheless, the combination of luxury and 500 horsepower makes the Lyriq a joy to drive.
Noise cancellation technology effectively eliminates tire noise, but wind noise was an issue in the test vehicle. Cadillac acknowledged that there was a problem with the A-pillar trim piece and assured that it would be resolved in future models. Despite this minor setback, the 19-speaker AKG audio system delivers exceptional sound quality, making it a pleasure to listen to music while driving.
Super Cruise and Range
The Lyriq offers Cadillac’s advanced Super Cruise system, which provides an unparalleled driving experience on the highway. The active-lane lane changing is seamless, and the system follows lane markings with precision. However, during the test drive, Super Cruise unexpectedly deactivated several times on empty highways, which seemed more like glitches than genuine safety concerns. Cadillac will need to address these issues to ensure a consistent and reliable experience.
With a 102-kilowatt-hour battery pack, the Lyriq offers an impressive range of 307 miles. Even with the larger 22-inch wheels on the Sport 3 model, the range penalty is minimal compared to the single-motor rear-drive version. Opting for all-wheel drive provides improved acceleration and traction without sacrificing range, making it a worthwhile upgrade.
Conclusion
While the Lyriq had a few minor issues during the test drive, it remains an exceptional electric SUV. Cadillac has finally overcome production woes and is now able to deliver the Lyriq in substantial numbers. The competition in the electric SUV market is fierce, with other manufacturers staking their claims. However, the Lyriq’s luxurious design, comfortable driving experience, and impressive range make it a standout choice. Cadillac’s vision of the future is finally becoming a reality, and the Lyriq is a key part of that future.