The 2025 Cadillac Lyriq is Cadillac's flagship entry in the electric SUV market, and it doesn’t disappoint in showcasing the brand’s blend of luxury and innovation. From its impressive powertrains to advanced regenerative braking, this all-electric SUV delivers on multiple fronts. But like any vehicle, it's not without its flaws. If you're considering adding the Lyriq to your garage, here are five reasons why you might love it — and two areas where it falls short.
The Lyriq offers two powerful configurations to suit your driving preferences. The standard model comes with a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive setup that generates 340 horsepower. For those wanting even more performance, an all-wheel-drive version is available, featuring a dual-motor system delivering a hearty 500 horsepower.
Both powertrains pair beautifully with a 102-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack which keeps the massive 5,500-pound SUV zippy and responsive. Even with its weight, the Lyriq accelerates confidently, offering smooth and seamless drives.
When it comes to range, the 2025 Cadillac Lyriq delivers competitive numbers in the electric SUV category. The rear-wheel-drive variant boasts an EPA-estimated range of 326 miles on a full charge, while the all-wheel-drive model offers a solid 319 miles. While not industry-leading, these numbers comfortably place the Lyriq among other premium EV options.
Charging is also straightforward, with a Level 2 home charger adding up to 51 miles of range per hour. Plus, with fast charging, you can get up to 77 miles of range in just 10 minutes — perfect for on-the-go convenience.
If smooth, composed rides are your preference, you’re in luck. The Lyriq’s low-mounted battery provides a low center of gravity, which contributes to a planted and stable driving experience. While not built as a sports SUV, the Lyriq delivers a satisfying mix of powerful performance and luxury comfort.
It shines especially on highways, where its quiet and spacious cabin can be fully appreciated. The suspension system absorbs bumps gracefully, and hefty, confidence-inspiring steering complements its cruising capabilities. Whether you’re navigating curves or cruising straight stretches of road, the Lyriq performs as expected from a Cadillac.
The Lyriq introduces an innovative approach to regenerative braking. Its steering wheel features a pressure-sensitive paddle that allows the driver to customize the amount of regenerative braking in real-time. Pull harder on the paddle, and you get more aggressive braking — light pulls result in gentler deceleration.
There’s also a one-pedal driving mode that enhances efficiency while simplifying driving in traffic. The system adapts to your preferences effortlessly, making regenerative tech both functional and fun to use.
The Cadillac Lyriq's interior technology sets a high bar. Its standout feature is a stunning, 33-inch curved dashboard that houses both the digital driver’s display and the infotainment center touchscreen. The system, powered by Google Built-In software, is user-friendly and visually impressive.
Adding to its appeal are extras like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with physical controls for essentials like climate and audio. It’s a welcome blend of modern convenience and traditional practicality, ensuring that drivers never feel overwhelmed or lost in overly complex systems.
While the Lyriq impresses with some tangible controls, the touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel are problematic. They’re overly sensitive and prone to accidental activation, which can make simple tasks like adjusting settings a frustrating experience. Additionally, features like changing drive modes require several taps on the touchscreen, which feels unnecessarily cumbersome.
At first glance, the Lyriq’s interior has a clean and modern design that feels premium. However, upon closer inspection, some materials fall short of luxury standards. Flights of polished elegance, like soft-touch finishes, are interspersed with surprisingly cheap plastics that detract from the upscale vibe expected in its class. For buyers moving over from competitors like Mercedes or Tesla, this may be a noticeable drawback.
The 2025 Cadillac Lyriq has a lot going for it. It offers impressive power, a respectable range, and luxurious touches that make it a pleasure to drive and own. Features like progressive regenerative braking and user-friendly tech show Cadillac’s commitment to innovation, while its roomy comfort makes it an excellent cruiser.
That said, the flaws in control ergonomics and interior material quality may give certain buyers pause. If a pure luxury experience or bulletproof feature functionality is what you’re after, some rivals might be worth a closer look.
Still, with its well-rounded performance and competitive pricing, the Cadillac Lyriq represents a strong contender in the electric SUV space. If you value comfort, technology, and Cadillac's iconic styling, the Lyriq could be a perfect fit for your driveway.