The Cadillac Lyriq is set to hit the market after a long period of delay, offering a luxurious electric SUV experience that is unparalleled in its class. With a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain delivering 500 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, the Lyriq is more about luxury than performance. In this review of the Cadillac Lyriq Sport 3 trim, we delve into the design, technology, driving experience, and overall impressions of this high-end electric vehicle.
**Design and Luxury**
Stepping into the cabin of the Cadillac Lyriq, one is immediately struck by the attention to detail and luxury that Cadillac has infused into the design. With a price tag of $83,500 for the loaded tester, the interior of the Lyriq feels every bit like an $80,000 luxury vehicle. From the elegant adornments to the high-quality materials, the Lyriq sets a new standard for luxury in the electric SUV segment. Despite its hefty price, the Lyriq’s interior outshines competitors like the Tesla Model Y in terms of luxury and materials quality.
**Technology and Infotainment**
The Cadillac Lyriq is equipped with a vast 33-inch display that houses the infotainment system. Running GM’s Android Automotive software, the system offers seamless integration with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. While there may be a slight lag during setup, the navigation system operates flawlessly once initiated. The unique steering wheel buttons and door-mounted seat controls add to the intuitive user experience of the Lyriq’s technology suite, making it easy for both long-time Cadillac buyers and EV newcomers to navigate.
**Driving Experience and Performance**
The Cadillac Lyriq’s driving experience is characterized by a slower steering rack that provides a smooth and stable feel at low speeds and responsive steering at higher speeds. With 500 horsepower under the hood, the Lyriq offers a comfortable acceleration off the line and impressive handling on the highway. The lack of adaptive dampers may impact ride quality over rough roads, but the Lyriq strikes a good balance between comfort and handling. While it may not handle corners like a sports sedan, the Lyriq’s performance is sure to impress with its power and stability.
**Noise Reduction and Comfort**
The active noise cancellation technology in the Cadillac Lyriq effectively eliminates tire noise, providing a quiet and serene cabin environment. However, some wind noise issues were noted in this particular test vehicle, which Cadillac has acknowledged and plans to address. The 19-speaker AKG audio system offers a premium sound experience that complements long highway drives, especially when paired with Cadillac’s advanced Super Cruise system. While Super Cruise boasts impressive lane-keeping capabilities, some unexpected system cancelations were observed during highway driving, pointing to potential glitches in the system.
**Range and Charging**
The Cadillac Lyriq Sport 3 model is equipped with a 102-kilowatt-hour battery pack that delivers an impressive 307 miles of range, even with the large 22-inch wheels. Charging capabilities are solid with a 190-kW maximum charge speed, though they may fall behind other EV competitors in the market. Despite this, the Lyriq’s range and performance make it a compelling option for those seeking a luxurious electric SUV experience.
In conclusion, the Cadillac Lyriq Sport 3 impresses with its luxury design, innovative technology, comfortable driving experience, and competitive range. While some minor issues with noise and Super Cruise system reliability were noted, the overall package of the Lyriq makes it a standout option in the electric SUV market. Cadillac’s commitment to luxury and performance shines through in the Lyriq, setting a new standard for high-end electric vehicles.