Cadillac’s latest electric crossover is faster to 60 mph than a CT5-V Blackwing
January 23, 2025 at 08:00
- Cadillac has introduced the new 2026 Lyriq-V, which will go into production shortly.
- It features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 615 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque.
- The SUV has 285 miles of range, a $79,990 price tag, and a 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds.
Cadillac’s electrification journey is entering a new phase as the company has introduced the first fully electric V-Series. We’re talking about the 2026 Lyriq-V and it’s the quickest road-going Cadillac ever created.
Jumping right into the numbers, the high-performance crossover has a 102 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing an estimated 615 hp (459 kW / 624 PS) and 650 lb-ft (880 Nm) of torque. Those numbers carryover from the three-row Vistiq, but the Lyriq-V weighs 346 lbs (156.9 kg) less, as it tips the scales at 5,980 lbs (2,713 kg).
More: Cadillac Aims To Become America’s Best-Selling Luxury EV Brand In 2025
This enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in approximately 3.3 seconds in Velocity Max mode. That makes it the quickest Cadillac, as it’s a tenth of a second faster than the CT5-V Blackwing.
Unfortunately, the performance comes at a cost as the range is an estimated 285 miles (459 km). That’s quite a bit less than other all-wheel drive Lyriqs, which have EPA ranges of 303 and 319 miles (488 and 513 km).
When the battery is low, a DC fast charger can deliver up to 75 miles (121 km) of range in as little as 10 minutes. At home, a 7.7 kW AC charger gives up to 19 miles (31 km) per hour, while an 11.5 kW charger increases that to 27 miles (43 km) per hour. The available 19.2 kW charger is even better as it delivers up to 44 miles (71 km) of range per hour.
Performance upgrades extend beyond the powertrain as engineers installed a quicker steering ratio and a lowered multi-link suspension with continuous damping control. During a media briefing earlier this month, Lyriq-V chief engineer Dave Stutzman told us the changes allow for comfort as well as “confidence and control” for spirited driving.
The performance features don’t end there as the model has Launch Control and a customizable V-Mode. They’re joined by a Competitive Mode, which enables a “suite of traction management features specifically engineered to increase vehicle agility.”
When it comes time to stop, Brembo front brakes are called into action. They measure 15.35 inches (390 mm), which makes them nearly 2.8 inches (71 mm) larger than the discs found on the standard model. Besides the beefier brakes, the Lyriq-V offers red calipers with a V-Series logo.
Part of what makes a V-Series so special is the sound it makes. For the Lyriq-V, Cadillac created a “unique, multi-layered sound experience” that can be heard inside and out. During the briefing, officials said some elements were borrowed from their LMDh race car and noted the sound can ‘move around’ the cabin by using speakers in various locations. It will be interesting to hear what Cadillac has come up with but, if it doesn’t float your boat, you can shut it off.
A Slightly More Aggressive Design
Styling changes are relatively minor, but the Lyriq-V is distinguished by a unique front fascia and a revised intake with a mesh insert. They’re joined by sportier side skirts and additional body-color trim.
Designers also gave the model a unique chin spoiler as well as V-Series badges on the rear doors and tailgate. Customers can further up the ante with carbon fiber accents and an exclusive Magnus Metal Frost paint job.
The crossover rides on 22-inch wheels that have a dark finish as well as an etched V-Series logo. They’re wrapped in summer-only performance tires, but all-seasons are also available.
A Classy Cabin With Sporty Touches
The Lyriq’s interior has been highly praised and the performance variant doesn’t mess with success. However, drivers will be greeted by a unique steering wheel that features a V-Series logo as well as an aluminum Regen On Demand paddle. They’re accompanied by special front seats and upholstery.
A 33-inch display is the star attraction and it sports a ‘V-ified’ infotainment experience. Buyers will also find paperwood trim and illuminated V-Series door sill plates. The model will also become the first Cadillac to have a dual-plane augmented reality head-up display. Rounding out the highlights are a fixed panoramic glass roof, Super Cruise, and a 23-speaker AKG audio system.
Arrives Later This Year For Less Than $80,000
The 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V will be built in Spring Hill, Tennessee and production will begin in the first quarter of this year. Pricing starts at $79,990 including destination, which sounds like a pretty good deal considering the all-wheel drive Lyriq begins at $64,115. The model is also significantly cheaper than the Tesla Model X Plaid, which starts at $94,990 but offers better range and performance.
