The Cadillac Lyriq is Cadillac’s first electric vehicle, a two-row luxury SUV that went on sale in 2022 as a 2023 model. It was one of the first vehicles on GM’s Ultium electric platform and is built in Spring Hill, Tennessee. The Lyriq introduced a 33-inch curved LED display, an illuminated “Black Crystal” grille and a range of roughly 300 miles or more depending on version. It opened the door to Cadillac’s growing EV lineup, including the Optiq, Vistiq, Escalade IQ and Celestiq.

At a glance

Launched 2022 (2023 model year)
Platform GM Ultium
Drive Rear-wheel drive or dual-motor all-wheel drive
Display 33-inch curved LED
Built Spring Hill, Tennessee
Seats Five

Why it mattered

Cadillac announced that it would become an electric-first brand, and the Lyriq was the first step. Its design previewed Cadillac’s electric styling: vertical lighting, a closed illuminated grille and a sleek profile. Inside, a single curved display and a 19-speaker AKG sound system brought Escalade-like technology to a mid-size SUV.

Driving and range

The Lyriq drives quietly and smoothly, with instant torque and a low center of gravity. Its range — roughly 300 miles or more depending on configuration — and DC fast charging make it practical for daily use and many regional trips. Performance versions later added more power.

Cadillac’s EV family

  • Lyriq — mid-size two-row SUV.
  • Optiq — smaller electric SUV.
  • Vistiq — three-row electric SUV.
  • Escalade IQ — full-size electric Escalade. See the Escalade IQ.
  • Celestiq — hand-built flagship sedan. See the Celestiq.

EVs and chauffeured travel

Electric SUVs deliver a wonderfully quiet ride for passengers. Two-row models like the Lyriq are better suited to one to three passengers with modest luggage; for families and groups, three-row SUVs remain the practical choice. Read electric vs gas luxury cars.