Cadillac Lyriq-V: The Dawn of a High-Performance Electric Luxury SUV








The Cadillac Lyriq-V emerges as a formidable contender in the luxury electric SUV arena, marrying exhilarating performance with sophisticated comfort. This new iteration, infused with Cadillac's esteemed "V" designation, propels the Lyriq into a new dimension of power and agility. Designed for discerning drivers who demand both speed and luxury, the Lyriq-V boasts a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, delivering a robust 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Its ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a breathtaking 3.3 seconds rivals that of high-end sports cars, all while providing a spacious and opulent cabin for five occupants. This vehicle represents a pivotal step for Cadillac, showcasing its commitment to electrifying its lineup without compromising the brand's legacy of premium design and dynamic capabilities.
Cadillac Lyriq-V: Unveiling a New Era of Electrified Performance in Seattle
In a momentous event that unfolded in the vibrant city of Seattle on July 30, 2025, Cadillac introduced the world to its groundbreaking 2026 Lyriq-V. This highly anticipated electric luxury SUV, previewed in January, shattered expectations with its extraordinary performance figures, claiming the title of the fastest Cadillac ever produced. The vehicle's prowess was vividly demonstrated through an exclusive first-drive experience, where its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system showcased its remarkable acceleration. With 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque in its specialized "Velocity Max" mode, the Lyriq-V delivered a sensation reminiscent of a high-performance sports car, all within the confines of a lavishly appointed SUV designed for five passengers.
Engaging the Lyriq-V's peak performance modes requires a precise sequence, highlighting the vehicle's sophisticated engineering. Drivers can activate "V-Mode"—which unlocks the full spectrum of horsepower and torque—either via a dedicated button on the steering wheel, conveniently located near the SuperCruise controls, or through the central infotainment display's menu. Following this, a firm depression of the brake pedal is necessary until an on-screen animation signals readiness. Only then, with the accelerator fully engaged and the brake released, does the Lyriq-V unleash its astonishing power, launching forward with incredible force. During rigorous testing conducted in Seattle's urban and track environments, the vehicle consistently achieved 0-60 mph times under 3.3 seconds, with some independent assessments even dipping below 3 seconds on a slightly sloped track. Cadillac confidently maintains its official 3.3-second 0-60 mph claim and an impressive quarter-mile time under 12 seconds.
Beyond straight-line speed, the Lyriq-V also proved its surprising agility on an autocross course when set to "Competitive Mode." This mode transforms the luxury SUV into a highly responsive machine, adept at navigating tight turns with precision, underscoring the exceptional rigidity provided by its 22-inch tires. Key enhancements in Competitive Mode include elevated stability control thresholds for increased lateral slide, preemptive traction control on the front axle to mitigate understeer, and advanced brake torque vectoring for optimized power distribution to the outer wheels. These features collectively enable a dynamic driving experience rarely associated with an SUV of its stature.
The $80,000 Lyriq-V comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of high-performance and luxury upgrades. These include the customizable V-Mode, offering personalized performance settings and a unique auditory experience; a multi-layered sound system synchronized for an immersive journey; Launch Control for consistent, thrilling acceleration; Competitive Mode for enhanced vehicle agility; standard Brembo performance front brake calipers, with optional V-Series logo accents; and the standard Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology, including three years of OnStar service. While the larger 22-inch wheels and sport tires result in a reduced range of 285 miles compared to the standard Lyriq's 326 miles, the vehicle's charging capabilities remain robust: Level 2 charging at 19.2 kW adds approximately 44 miles per hour, and 190 kW fast DC charging can provide around 75 miles in just 10 minutes. Furthermore, a NACS adapter ensures compatibility with Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.
Drawing comparisons to the Chevrolet Blazer SS, a less expensive General Motors counterpart, reveals shared foundations in their 22-inch wheels, 615 hp, 650 lb-ft of torque, and 102 kWh battery. Despite the Blazer SS being marginally slower by 0.1 seconds in 0-60 mph acceleration, it mysteriously offers an additional 20 miles of range. Cadillac's strategy with the Lyriq-V caters to a specific clientele willing to prioritize performance over extended range, aligning perfectly with its customer base's preferences. The vehicle also integrates an array of cutting-edge technological features, such as a 33-inch diagonal advanced LED display, Super Cruise with enhanced driver assistance, a Dual-Plane Augmented Reality Head-Up Display, and a premium 23-speaker AKG Studio sound system with Dolby Atmos, culminating in an unparalleled in-cabin experience.
The Cadillac Lyriq-V stands as a testament to the brand's bold vision for an electrified future, seamlessly blending raw power with the refined elegance expected of a luxury vehicle. This innovation positions Cadillac as a leader among traditional automakers in the transition to electric mobility, attracting a younger, more affluent demographic. With its compelling combination of sport and luxury, the Lyriq-V offers a sophisticated choice for those seeking an uncompromising driving experience in the new electric era.