Cadillac’s latest electric vehicle, the Lyriq, is making waves in the automotive industry. With its bold design and unique features, the Lyriq stands out from the crowd. Its modern appearance easily outshines other vehicles in its class, such as the Volvo XC90. The Lyriq’s crossover/SUV classification may be a bit misleading, as its low roof and spacious cargo area give it the feel of a luxury sedan or even a station wagon. Its versatile configuration is both practical and likable.
One aspect that may disappoint potential buyers is the color options. While the “Emerald Lake Metallic” may sound enticing, it falls short of expectations. In certain lighting conditions, the green hue is barely noticeable, appearing more like a dark shade of black. Cadillac could have improved this by lightening up the color to truly capture the essence of emerald lakes. Thankfully, Cadillac has showcased the Lyriq in a vibrant red color, which provides a much-needed pop of excitement.
Upon approaching the Lyriq, it puts on a mesmerizing light show with its LED headlamps and tail lamps. The grille’s Cadillac badge lights up, while various lighting elements throughout the car activate in choreographed sequences. This spectacle creates an impression that the car is excited to see you and ready to embark on a journey.
The Lyriq’s attention to detail extends to its door handles, which pop out as you approach the car and retract when you get inside. However, there may be instances where the car fails to detect the key fob’s approach, resulting in non-deployment of the handles. Nevertheless, these minor inconveniences do not overshadow the overall appeal of the Lyriq.
Cadillac has made an interesting design choice with the illuminated badges. While the front badge lights up, the back badge remains devoid of color, which gives it a more bare appearance. It would have been just as effective to have a multicolored illuminated badge for a more visually striking effect. Cadillac has also added convenient touches to the badge design, such as using the badge to open the back hatch and the charging door.
Stepping into the Lyriq’s cabin, you’re greeted by a 33-inch curved LED display, which provides a wealth of information. The welcome screen shows a profile view of the car, accompanied by a line of bars indicating battery state-of-charge. While this display offers limited visibility of the battery percentage, it conveys available range in miles, which is crucial information for EV owners.
When it comes to charging, the Lyriq performs well at public charging stations. With a maximum charge rate of 190 kilowatts, it can replenish its range quickly. However, there may be instances where charging sessions end prematurely, leaving owners wondering if it’s the fault of the charger or the car. Despite this minor setback, owning an EV like the Lyriq still offers convenience and efficiency, especially when charging at home.
The Lyriq’s Super Cruise feature is impressive, allowing for hands-free driving on highways. However, it’s easy to become less attentive as the car takes control, which can be potentially dangerous. While these self-driving technologies provide convenience, they can diminish the joy of being fully engaged behind the wheel.
The Lyriq’s interior exudes luxury and reflects its price point. Soft-touch materials and sleek metallic accents create a modern look that sets it apart from other Cadillac models. The Lyriq’s heated/cooled seats are not only comfortable but also feature a perforation pattern reminiscent of the Cadillac badge. Attention to detail can be seen in the placement of AKG speaker enclosures and the use of aluminum cladding to avoid accidental damage. However, some small design elements, such as the dust-attracting dashboard shelf in the XT4 model, could be improved.
Practicality is a key consideration in the Lyriq’s design, with its open footwell and various storage compartments. However, certain choices, such as a shallow shelf and a vertical slot for phone charging, may not be suitable for all users. Ensuring that items remain secure and do not obstruct the pedals should be a priority.
The Lyriq offers multiple options for regeneration, including a steering wheel paddle and one-pedal driving. While these features provide enhanced control and efficiency, there may be slight delays when transitioning between regenerative braking and traditional braking.
Cadillac pays attention to the details, as seen in the rolling numbers on the climate control switches. This delightful touch adds a nostalgic element reminiscent of old scoreboards or train station displays. Implementing similar rolling numbers on other displays within the car could further enhance its distinctive character.
In conclusion, the Cadillac Lyriq proves to be a standout in the world of electric vehicles. Its bold design and unique features make it a strong contender in the luxury segment. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as limited color options and occasional charging issues, the Lyriq offers a compelling driving experience. With its innovative technology and attention to detail, the Lyriq sets a new standard for electric vehicles.