► Cadillac reveals high-performance Lyriq-V
► Electric performance crossover designed to fight Ioniq 5 N
► Launches in North America first, may come to Europe
Cadillac has revealed its first-ever electric car to wear its high-performance badge: meet the Lyriq-V. It’s designed to tackle the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, as well as sporty EVs like the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 and electric Porsche Macan.
The Lyriq-V uses a dual-motor setup for electric all-wheel drive, developing around 615bhp and 650lb ft. Cadillac says, according to its own internal testing, the Lyriq-V is capable of a 0-60mph time of 3.3sec – quicker than cars like the riotously good fun CT5-V Blackwing or the utterly silly Escalade-V.
Like any other GM electric car including the regular Lyriq, the Lyriq-V uses the Ultium platform and battery technology. Here, a massive 102kWh battery pack is fitted, whereby Cadillac claims a zero to 80 per cent charge can be dealt with in 41 minutes.
It’s not just about power, mind you. Cadillac has thrown a load of performance software and engineering at the Lyriq-V, including launch control and a ‘competitive mode’ for track driving. The brand’s Super Cruise technology is included as standard, as well as Brembo brakes and a bespoke EV sound.
And, because it’s a V model, the hot Lyriq has a bespoke bodykit and 22-inch wheels, lowered multi-link suspension and a few V details peppered around the interior.
Cadillac says that the Lyriq-V will go on sale in the United States for $79,990 (good luck selling any, in 2025…) and Canada, as well as Australia and New Zealand first. The brand also confirms it will launch in ‘other global markets to be announced at a later date,’ likely meaning a launch in European markets as the brand slowly expends across the Continent with models like the regular Lyriq and Optiq SUV.