Lyriq V is quickest Cadillac yet

FOLLOWING the surprise global announcement of Cadillac’s Lyriq-V electric performance SUV as the US luxury brand officially opened its first Australian showroom last October, it has been confirmed that the first battery electric V-Series model will also be the quickest to ever bear the badge.

Cadillac Australia and New Zealand said the Lyriq-V will make its way Down Under in early 2026 following last week’s debut in the United States where it is priced from $US79,990 ($A127,310) with claims it will deliver signature performance blended with craftsmanship and technology.

With an estimate output of 458kW and 880Nm, the Lyriq-V is set to offer a 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 3.3 seconds, making it the quickest-accelerating production Cadillac yet.

Although Australian pricing for the Lyriq-V is yet to be announced, local orders for regular variants of the Lyriq large SUV are already open with a starting ticket of $117,000 plus on-road costs to undercut European rivals like the Audi Q8 E-Tron, BMW iX, and Mercedes-Benz EQE UV while offering higher outputs from its standard dual-motor drivetrain.

Despite its performance intent, the Lyriq-V is promised to retain its maker’s high luxury standards, offering what Cadillac says is a “a quiet, smooth and effortless experience with a strong connection to the road”.

The connection comes in part from lowered multi-link suspension, standard continuous adaptive damping and a quicker steering ratio aimed at providing a “comfortable yet spirited ride and handling”.

“(The) Lyriq-V brings luxury, technology and performance together to push its capabilities to the limit,” said Cadillac Lyriq-V chief engineer Dave Stutzman.

“With the combination of its rigid body structure and lower centre of gravity, our team was able to improve the suspension to achieve the right level of precision and isolation, adding to its outstanding canyon-carving abilities.”

The Lyriq-V features a 102kWh battery pack claimed to offer up to 457km driving range.

Further highlights include V-Mode – a competition setting access via a button on the steering wheel – launch control, a “multi-layered sound experience” (read: synthesised engine noise”), Brembo high-performance brakes, and Super Cruise autonomous driver assistance technology.

In standing above the standard Lyriq, the V-Series variant boast unique exterior design elements said to create a “distinctive persona”. These include familiar V-Series accents such as a lowered fascia and rocker panels, body-coloured trim accents, V-Series logos, V-mesh grille patterning, and unique 22-inch wheels in a Dark Sport finish.

The Lyriq-V will also come as standard with a black painted roof, contrasting standard colours that include Magnus Metal Frost, an exclusive and limited-time paint option.

Moving inside, the cabin of the Lyriq-V sports a fixed glass panoramic roof, 23-speaker AKG premium sound system, uniquely styled steering wheel, power adjustable front seats, illuminated sill plates, Nappa leather upholstery, and contrasting paperwood décor.

“(The) V-Series captures the spirit of Cadillac, embodying our relentless pursuit of engineering excellence through our racing and production vehicles,” said Cadillac global vice president John Roth.

“(The) Lyriq-V takes this commitment a step further in the EV era, pushing our performance pedigree of V-Series to new heights with a powerful, personalised and high-tech driving experience that fits perfectly into our customers’ lives.”