2023 Cadillac Lyriq SUVOTY Review: Bespoke Luxury

The 2023 Cadillac Lyriq, which is ushering in Cadillac's electric vehicle future, is being unfairly critiqued by those doubting EVs in general and Cadillac in particular.

Here's what we concluded after our judging: The Lyriq is a strong harbinger of what's to come for the marque, thanks to its striking good looks, spirited driving dynamics, excellent regenerative braking, and innovative touches.

From a styling perspective, the Lyriq looks the part of an electric vehicle without sacrificing its design in the name of aerodynamics. "It has that classic Cadillac long-nose profile and harkens back to the brand's heyday, with the neat vertical taillight elements and ostentatious delights like the walkup and shutdown light show," features editor Christian Seabaugh said.

Guest judge and former Ford design chief Moray Callum had even higher praise for the Lyriq's exterior. "I think it's the best-looking car out there," he said.

Inside, the main attraction is an impressive 33.0-inch curved screen with crisp graphics. Although judges were divided on the intuitiveness of the Lyriq's infotainment system, associate editor Alex Leanse felt the Cadillac's approach to splitting digital and physical controls was a reasoned one. Amenities include heated, cooled, and massaging seats; a panoramic sunroof with a sunshade; AKG stereo speakers in the front headrests; and a pullout drawer in the dash.

Thankfully, Cadillac didn't dip into the old GM parts bin when it came to building out the Lyriq. Its bespoke silver door handles and interior controls are nicely weighted, including the turn signal stalk and window switches. For the headlights, you simply press a button on the left edge of the screen for the menu spelled out—no symbols to decipher. The judges also praised this particular Lyriq's wood trim with a laser-cut pattern.

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Its rear seats are comfortable and roomy, with air vents and both 12-volt and USB outlets for passengers. (A nice touch: You can insert the seat belt latches into a slot on the door to keep them from rattling around.) The Lyriq's cargo area features usable underfloor storage and a place to stow the cover—extra space that helps offset its lack of a frunk.

Engineering-wise, the Lyriq uses GM's Ultium electric vehicle platform and battery management system, helping the single-motor, rear-drive Lyriq achieve roughly 312 miles of range and a decent 97/82/89 mpg-e rating. Judges found the power delivery from the 340-hp 450E model to be smooth and its steering quick, with a well-damped ride from its coil-spring setup.

"There's a wonderful liveliness and creaminess to the Lyriq's transitory behavior," digital director Erik Johnson said. Seabaugh noted how power "comes in one long, smooth gob of V-8-like torque," adding, "The accelerator mapping and weighting makes the Cadillac really easy to drive."

When it comes to stopping, the Lyriq benefits from natural pedal feel for an EV and offers excellent one-pedal driving, which eases off the brake pressure around 5 mph to deliver a "buttery-smooth limo stop," associate editor Duncan Brady said.

Given everything the Lyriq offers for its price point, judges also appreciated the Lyriq's overall value play. "Incredible for under $63,000 in terms of features and range," buyer's guide director Zach Gale said.

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On the downside, several judges found the Lyriq to be a bit immature in some areas. Cadillac pulled its launch forward, leaving features like Super Cruise to come later, and systems such as its lane keep assist were deemed weak in execution, allowing it to get too close to the lines. Judges called out some fit and finish issues, including from guest judge and automotive consultant Gordon Dickie, who took issue with a flimsy charge door cover that squeaked like a mouse when opening.

No, it's not perfect, and its early start might have hindered the vehicle's overall execution, but the Lyriq is an impressive first EV for Cadillac and an important addition to the segment. It should more than suit Cadillac buyers considering an electric vehicle, all while introducing the brand to a new generation of customers.