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Cadillac just debuted the first of its new generation of electric vehicles with their Lyriq show car. We dive into all the detail of this hotly anticipated new luxury crossover.
Both Show and Go
The Lyriq EV may be two years away from production, but the recently revealed show car version makes a strong statement that Cadillac is not just interested in catching up with the times, but actually wants to bend the curve. With competition like the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan, Cadillac’s Lyriq will needs to hit the mark on performance, styling, and technology. And, judging from the first glimpses of the Lyriq, Cadillac may have a contender on their hands.
The Run Down
The Lyriq EV is a mid-size crossover comparable in size to the current Cadillac XT5. Power will come from a 100kWh battery pack, though given the Lyriq’s architecture, could go all the way up to 200kWh. Cadillac says they are aiming for a range in excess of 300 miles and a 0-60 time of close to 3 seconds. They also plan for both RWD and AWD configurations. Cadillac also plans for the Lyriq to be the fastest charging EV on the market, with a charging rate of 19kW.
Speaking a Different (Design) Language
If we’re being honest, recent Cadillac products haven’t quite kept pace with the cutting edge of luxury design. But the company is looking to change that. Car and Driver quotes Head of Cadillac global design Andrew Smith saying, “The Lyriq represents the next iteration of the iconic brand’s styling.” In evolutionary parlance, the Lyriq represents a moment of punctuated equilibrium, where the once stable status quo gets suddenly and irrecoverably upended.
And this new look is coming at just the right time. In keeping with modern aesthetics, the Lyriq features an expansive grille bookended by vertical LED headlights. The Lyriq currently sports 22-inch wheels and a sleek and sporty exterior designed to maximize aerodynamics (and overall efficiency). The roof line slopes to a rear spoiler and raked rear window. Overall, the Lyriq looks appropriately 2022, its targeted release date.
Super Cruise Control
The fast charging and the swift 0-60 time aren’t the only big tech items on display in the new Lyriq. An advanced LED 33-inch screen spans nearly the entire length of the dash, encompassing both the gauge cluster and the infotainment display.
Even more impressive is the addition of the second generation of GM’s Super Cruise driver assistance software. Though their respective titles might obscure that fact, Super Cruise is one step ahead of Tesla’s Auto Pilot system, in that you can go entirely handsfree (Auto Pilot requires you to continually return your hand to the steering wheel) while the car monitors the driver’s eyes for their attention to the road. Super Cruise also allows for automated lane changes and remote monitored parking.
The Future Looks Bright
The Cadillac Lyriq EV, with its striking good looks, generous array of cutting-edge technology, and efficient powertrain, is every bit the halo car it’s intended to be. We’ll add that it was nice to have GM give such a thoroughgoing promotion of the Lyriq. Recent promos for the Ford Bronco and even GM’s own Hummer EV have taken to treating the vehicle in question like the shark in Jaws, best seen only in shadow. With two years to go, we’re thankful for this glimpse into Cadillac’s future.
