Automotive
As the global pandemic’s disruptions began to subside, Cadillac introduced the 2023 Lyriq at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show, marking a significant milestone for the American luxury automaker.
The most notable revelation was not merely the launch of a new model, but the fact that the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq was the brand’s inaugural electric vehicle. Breaking away from the conventional approach of starting with sedans or hatchbacks, Cadillac opted to enter the EV market with a crossover, recognizing the growing demand for this vehicle type. To cater to diverse customer preferences, the automaker offered three distinct trim levels: Tech, Luxury, and Sport.
Embracing a new era of design, the 2024 Cadillac Lyriq showcased a distinctive front fascia devoid of a traditional grille. Instead, it featured a broad pentagonal panel adorned with diagonal stripes and illuminated LED accents. Vertically positioned headlights flanked the panel, with daytime running lights integrated on the outer sides. Horizontal turn signals were mounted above, beneath the hood’s leading edge. The avant-garde design extended to the lower bumper area with a piano black-finished trapezoidal air intake, essential for cooling the electric system components.
Built on the shared Ultium platform with the Chevrolet Blazer EV, the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq emerged as a luxurious mid-size electric crossover with sporty aesthetics. Its design featured a sloping panoramic windshield transitioning into a gently raked roofline. The rear tailgate incorporated a spoiler at its upper edge, while narrow side windows relative to the vehicle’s height contributed to its dynamic appearance. L-shaped taillights flanked the tailgate, complemented by Cadillac’s signature slim vertical lights in the lower section.
The interior of the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq offered a contemporary and opulent cabin environment. A standout feature was the expansive 33-inch curved display spanning the dashboard, encompassing both the driver’s LCD instrument cluster and the infotainment touchscreen. Front bucket seats with supportive bolsters were separated by a floating center console housing drive mode controls and cup holders. The rear compartment accommodated up to three passengers on a 60/40 split-folding bench seat, with sufficient headroom despite the sloping roofline. The trunk featured a flat floor with an additional hidden storage compartment for smaller items.
Powered by the Ultium platform, the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq offered a choice between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. Standard equipment included a 100 kWh battery pack integrated into the floor. Charging capabilities included public chargers supporting up to 190 kW and a home charger with a capacity of up to 11.4 kW. The initial offering comprised a rear-wheel-drive model with a 340-hp (345 PS) motor and an EPA-estimated range of 314 miles (505 km), alongside an all-wheel-drive variant with dual motors producing 500 hp (507 PS) and an estimated range of 307 miles (494 km).
