VM Test Drive Report Cadillac Lyriq: A Lyrical Experience

The first impression is already positive: The doors feel solid and heavy, closing with a satisfying thud. Inside, the Lyriq exudes a premium scent, almost reminiscent of "dental offices" from Audi. The dashboard layout in front of our chauffeur with the curved screen is reminiscent of BMW and the like – the ambiance could be crafted in any premium model – the Lyriq refrains from the exaggerated American bling-bling. So, how lyrical would a switch from the well-known premium brands be?

Our driver, usually in an i7, is bothered by the simple turn signal sound and the somewhat hard plastic in the lower areas of the center console. Indeed, Cadillac has subtly saved here, but we're also at "just" i5 level, which also subtly lags behind the i7 in detail...there has to be a difference somewhere between "Executive" and "Luxury." Yet, the 3.09-meter wheelbase is already luxurious in its class and offers ample legroom in the rear, even behind tall drivers.

The Lyriq is quiet – and produces a well-crafted V8 sound when the accelerator pedal is pressed

There is consensus, however, regarding the sound: Basically almost inaudibly quiet, but with a stronger foot on the accelerator, Cadillac has subtly overlaid the venerable V8 hum – powerful yet sophisticated. It then bothers the rear passengers even more that the small headrests are placed too far back, disturbing the relaxing overall package. Because one has to lean their head back so far that they can already look out of the third side window, which, in its angularity, is clearly the most "Cadillac-like" element of the interior.

Power is always ample: The two electric machines provide up to 388 kW (528 hp) and 610 Nm of torque, enough to shoot the five-meter limousine into a gap in Parisian city traffic. The chassis feels firm to us in the rear, but not uncomfortable, and the steering could be a bit more precise for our driver. Here, for him, nothing tops BMW. Nonetheless, the whole thing makes a successful European impression.

Large trunk, but with a hefty curb weight of over 2.7 tons

And the Lyriq is also practical, as the unusual rear carries a large tailgate, behind which there is a generous 793 to 1,722 liters of cargo volume, in addition to up to 1,587 kg of towing capacity, which is also impressive for an electric vehicle.

Which brings us to consumption: Cadillac states a not-so-cheap 22.5 kWh/100 km, which we easily undercut in well-air-conditioned commuting and city traffic. Cadillac cites a range of up to 530 km according to WLTP, our Lyriq shows almost a full 473 km, meaning the 102-kWh battery should still deliver a genuine 350 to 400 km even in winter. DC charging can be done with up to 190 kW, Cadillac doesn't skimp here either.