When you think of luxury cars, one name that inevitably comes to mind is Cadillac. For decades, Cadillac has been synonymous with style, class, and excellence, holding its own against the dominant German luxury brands. Now, as the automotive world moves towards electric vehicles (EVs), Cadillac is ready to make its mark with the Cadillac Lyriq, the brand's first all-electric SUV.
The Cadillac Lyriq, pronounced like "lyric," is more than just another EV; it is the embodiment of Cadillac's commitment to electrification and a glimpse of what's to come from the iconic brand. As with any first-generation vehicle, there's always the question of whether it can compete with more established rivals. In the case of the Lyriq, it proves that Cadillac is fully embracing the electric future.
During a 10-day test drive, the Lyriq showcased its impressive capabilities, serving as both a comfortable highway cruiser and a reliable daily driver. The smooth, frictionless, and whisper-quiet drive quality was everything you'd expect from a Cadillac, and the acceleration was delightful, though not as intense as some high-performance EVs. The Lyriq's single-motor rear-wheel-drive configuration offered a balanced blend of power and range, emitting 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, with a promise of 500hp and 450 lb-ft of torque for the upcoming all-wheel-drive version.
One of the key highlights of the Lyriq is its use of General Motors' new flexible Ultium architecture, which will power the next generation of GM's EV lineup. The Lyriq's impressive road grip, despite its substantial curb weight, can be attributed to the 102kWh Ultium battery incorporated under its floorboards. This massive battery pack, which shares a similar capacity to those in luxury German EVs, offers an EPA-estimated range of around 312 miles, depending on driving conditions. Throughout a 350-mile road trip, the Lyriq displayed an efficiency of 2.7 miles per kWh, translating to approximately 275.4 miles of range.
Charging the Lyriq proved to be a bit of a challenge, as fast-charging capabilities didn't always meet expectations. However, it's worth noting that charging infrastructure is continually improving, and more charging stations are being installed to accommodate the growing EV market.
Inside, the Lyriq continues Cadillac's tradition of providing a luxurious and tech-savvy cabin. High-quality materials, sumptuous appointments, and advanced technology create an inviting and upscale interior environment. Cadillac's Super Cruise, a hands-free highway driving assistant, will be available for the Lyriq after an over-the-air software update.
The Lyriq is more than just a beautiful electric SUV; it represents Cadillac's transformation into an all-electric company. It may not be perfect, but as a first foray into the EV market, it serves as a compelling preview of what Cadillac has in store for the future. With its blend of comfort, luxury, and advanced features, the Lyriq proves itself worthy of being the "Cadillac of electric vehicles," offering a competitive alternative for luxury car shoppers seeking an electrified experience. As the electric future unfolds, the Lyriq paves the way for more exciting electric offerings from Cadillac, cementing the brand's position as a leader in the world of luxury EVs.
