Cadillac Pushes Edge of Performance With 2026 Lyriq-V

Picking up on the exotic Opulent Velocity concept vehicle, the high-performance version of the 2026 Lyriq helps mark the 20th anniversary of the V-Series. 

But performance is just one of the reasons to check out the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V. The crossover EV is an attractive and well-equipped machine that could win over buyers who’ve questioned whether there’s a reason to trade in their internal combustion machines.

In short: The 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V takes what was already a sporty and well-equipped battery-electric crossover and adds a new level of performance. Launching from 0 to 60, it is in fact the fastest vehicle, whether gas or battery-powered, ever to roll out from one of the luxury brand’s factories.

2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V Review

Few brands have made a bigger investment in battery power. By the end of this year, Cadillac will have five different EVs in its showrooms, from the “entry-luxury” Optiq to the exotic, hand-built Celestiq. But it was the Lyriq that planted Caddy’s flag in the EV market.

With its distinctive shape and defining exterior lighting, the Lyriq debuted as one of the most striking Cadillac offerings we’ve seen in years. And by taking advantage of a skateboard-like platform moving the battery pack and other key drivetrain components below the load floor, the two-row crossover provides class-above interior space, with a cabin just as uniquely styled.

Now, the General Motors luxury brand is taking advantage of Lyriq’s electric drive system, milking its motors for every possible pound-foot of torque and transforming it into the fastest-ever street-legal product Cadillac has ever brought to market.

2026 Lyriq: What’s New

The 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V is the first of what will be a lineup of V-Series battery-electric vehicles. Caddy is already announcing that the Optiq-V is set to follow.

Making 615 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, the luxury brand claims Lyriq-V can hit 60 in a mere 3.3 seconds, faster even than any of its gas-powered Blackwing models. That said, the EV isn’t designed to log track time; it’s a blindingly fast street machine that delivers a blend of performance and luxury.

Beyond the powertrain upgrade, the Lyriq-V gets welcome features like a specially tuned Continuous Damping Control suspension, which replaces the Magnetic Ride Control system found on other Lyriq trims. It’s nominally set up for ride comfort, but can be stiffened up with a tap on the touchscreen.

Powertrain

With the debut of the V-Series package, buyers have a range of powertrain choices for Lyriq, starting with the base single-motor option. The original all-wheel-drive system was no slouch, punching out a solid 500 horsepower and launching from 0 to 60 in a quick 4.6 seconds.

The V-Series takes things to another level, jumping to 615 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. And, as with all of the latest EVs, that torque comes on all but instantaneously, providing the sort of neck-snapping launch feel that can impress even those who’ve spent time in one of the Cadillac Blackwing models.

To unlock maximum power, drivers need to trigger Velocity Max mode. This approach helps maximize range when peak performance isn’t called for — the EPA rating Lyriq-V at 285 miles per charge.

Before you press the V-Mode button on the steering wheel, however, you’ll be able to preset a wide range of vehicle functions, including steering, suspension, acceleration, and brake feel, and even a simulated audio track.

Battery & Charging

GM is typically vague about battery details, but has confirmed that the lithium-ion pack in the Lyriq-V has a usable rating of 102.0 kWh. It sacrifices an EPA-estimated 22 miles of range compared with the standard Lyriq AWD model.

Caddy claims you can add up to 75 miles of range in 10 minutes when plugged into a fast-enough public DC quick charger. It can go “from low state of charge to 80% in about 41 minutes,” the automaker’s website notes. That generally means 10% to 80%.

At home or at the office, a 100A 240V charger will get you another 19 mph — though the upgraded 11.5kW charger jumps to a maximum 27 mph.

Driving Impressions

Initially, I set up V-Mode for the most aggressive launch feel and I was rewarded with the sort of takeoff I can imagine you’d experience launching from an aircraft carrier. It made me particularly pleased by the embrace of Lyriq-V’s sport seats.

Ostensibly, the performance EV is designed specifically for street use. And there’s no question it doesn’t corner and handle as aggressively as the track-ready Cadillac Blackwing models. That said, the placement of the EV’s battery pack actually yields an extremely low center of gravity, yielding far more nimble handling than you might expect of a midsize crossover weighing in at a hefty 5,980 pounds.

Over the next few days, I spent a lot of time playing with the V-Mode settings, which allow for extensive customization of the electric crossover’s performance and ride. For everyday operation, I discovered, this Lyriq was as comfortable and well-mannered as the more mundane all-wheel-drive system — something that my passengers clearly appreciated.

This almost Jekyll-and-Hyde personality is one of the advantages of electric propulsion and a real plus for those who will use the Lyriq-V for daily commutes and family errands most of the time.

One of the quirkier features is the adjustable audio track that can be used to change the V’s aural personality. Gimmicky? No question. And folks I took out were divided over the optional “performance” setting. That said, I found it useful to get some feedback on how the Lyriq-V was behaving at any given moment. If nothing else, it reminded me to back off the throttle when I might otherwise have blasted down the road well into extralegal speeds.

Exterior Design

I’m a particular fan of the Lyriq in all its forms. The automaker’s gas models are a bit too tame for my taste, and Lyriq delivers the sort of look I expect from a brand that continues to designate itself “standard of the world.” As with other Lyriq packages, however, there are some quirky details, starting with the reverse-opening pop-out door handles.

The distinctive lighting — which picks up on Cadillac’s traditional, vertical orientation — is a particularly effective use of new LED technology.

Surprisingly, Caddy decided to take a low-key approach with the V-Series package, making relatively few changes to the AWD model’s detailing. There are a handful of enhancements, starting with a unique front fascia, side rockers, and lower trim. Add exterior V-Series badges, and buyers can opt for a carbon-fiber accent package, as well.

Interior Design

One of the benefits of using a skateboard-style platform is how it frees up space normally devoted to an engine compartment. While Lyriq doesn’t offer a frunk, or front trunk, it boasts class-above passenger space.

That helps explain why Cadillac decided to switch from the four-passenger layout of the original Lyriq concept to the five-seat production version. And with no transmission tunnel, Lyriq gets a flat load floor enhancing rear seat roominess — with as much as 40 inches of legroom in back.

Despite the coupe-like roofline, I had no trouble planting my 6’2” frame on the bench without banging my head. Up front, a huge center console drops in between the driver and the passenger, with more than enough space for a large purse or computer bag.

The cabin gets a decidedly high-tech feel, with the instrument panel dominated by a custom-designed 33-inch LED display that serves double duty as a gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The latter system handles virtually all vehicle functions, minimizing conventional controls.

Changes for the V-Series are modest, and most notable in the form of the unique, illuminated sill plates.

Technology

The good news is that the Lyriq-V is one of the few GM EVs to still offer both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — both in wireless form. There’s an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, as well as Qi wireless charging.

I was particularly pleased when the original Lyriq debuted that it maintained a conventional climate control bar, rather than moving all HVAC functions onto the touchscreen. But requiring you to tap the display to open the glovebox? Really?

2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V Review: Final Thoughts

While the powertrain numbers are impressive, there are some even faster, more powerful options available for those who want maximum performance. The Lucid Sapphire, for one, or the Tesla Model S Plaid edition. Both get 0-60 launches down to the roughly 2-second range. 

But, for the money, the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V is a veritable bargain, starting at $79,990 including delivery fees. And as much as I love the numbers the Lucid and Tesla packages put down, I found the Caddy performance EV more than quick enough.

It’s a handsome design, inside and out, and the dual personality of the drivetrain and suspension make for the sort of vehicle that you can enjoy, whether spinning tires or hauling the kids off to school before your morning commute. Cadillac’s new Lyriq-V deserves a close inspection.