Lyriq V: Cadillac's Quickest Ever Electric SUV

Cadillac's claims have been verified: the Lyriq V officially holds the title for the brand's fastest-accelerating production vehicle ever. Clocking a 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds, this electric SUV lives up to the hype. This impressive feat is achieved despite its considerable curb weight of 6,059 pounds. The launch process is user-friendly; simply engage Velocity Max mode with a button on the steering wheel to unleash the full 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. With Competition mode also activated for optimized rear-biased torque delivery, a firm press of the brake and accelerator is all that's needed to prepare for a blistering launch.

While its off-the-line speed is undeniable, the Lyriq V's performance in the quarter-mile run tells a slightly different story. It completed the distance in 12.0 seconds at 113.1 mph. For context, the related Chevrolet Blazer SS EV proved slightly quicker, posting a time of 11.8 seconds. When compared to a high-performance electric rival like the Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV, the Lyriq V falls a bit short, with the Mercedes achieving a 3.1-second 0-60 mph sprint and an 11.5-second quarter-mile time.

Handling the Heft: Brakes and Dynamics

Bringing over three tons of SUV to a halt is a significant challenge, and our testing pushed the Lyriq V's braking system to its limits. The vehicle is equipped with six-piston Brembo front calipers and 15.4-inch rotors, but after a series of aggressive stops from 60 and 100 mph, the brakes experienced significant overheating. This prompted the vehicle's onboard system to limit its top speed to 71 mph to allow for cooling.

Despite the thermal issues under extreme duress, the braking performance in a single stop was commendable. The Lyriq V achieved a 60-0 mph stopping distance of 111 feet, a solid figure that positions it favorably between the 109 feet of the lighter AMG EQE and the 114 feet of the Blazer SS. In handling tests like the figure eight and skidpad, the vehicle posted respectable but not class-leading numbers. It managed a 25.2-second lap in the figure eight and pulled 0.87 g on the skidpad, where brake fade once again became a factor during extended lapping.

Real-World Electric Performance

Beyond pure speed, an EV's utility is measured by its range and charging capabilities. The Lyriq V carries an EPA-estimated range of 285 miles, which is quite strong for a vehicle with this level of performance. In our own standardized highway range test, conducted at a consistent 70 mph, the vehicle managed a real-world distance of 255 miles. It's important for owners to remember that frequent use of the Velocity Max mode will naturally lead to a significant reduction in available range.

Where the Lyriq V shows room for improvement is in its DC fast-charging speed. While it can add about 81 miles of range in 15 minutes, a more comprehensive charging session from a low state of charge to 80 percent can take close to an hour. This rate is slower than many competitors. On a more positive note, the standard 19.2-kilowatt onboard AC charger is a significant advantage for home charging, enabling much faster Level 2 charging sessions for those with compatible equipment.

The V-Series Experience: Design and Daily Driving

Inside the Lyriq V, occupants are greeted by a sophisticated blend of modern luxury and performance-oriented details. The cabin is dominated by a stunning 33-inch curved digital display that serves as both the instrument cluster and infotainment hub. Premium materials like leather, wood, and carbon fiber accents create an upscale atmosphere. As a top-tier model, it also includes advanced technology like an augmented reality head-up display and a three-year subscription to GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system.

The exterior styling is equally compelling, building on the standard Lyriq's sharp design with a black roof, exclusive 22-inch wheels, and an optional carbon-fiber trim package for a more aggressive look. In everyday driving, the Lyriq V feels every bit as large and substantial as it is. The cabin is exceptionally quiet and isolated from road noise, even at highway speeds. However, the ride quality, influenced by the V-specific adaptive dampers and large wheels, is firm and may not feel particularly plush over broken pavement. The steering is heavy but features a quick ratio, providing a sense of control, and the regenerative braking paddle allows for effective one-pedal driving.

Value and Verdict

The 2026 Cadillac Lyriq V starts at $85,290, with our heavily optioned test vehicle reaching a final price of $92,910. While alternatives like the Chevrolet Blazer SS offer similar performance for less money, the Lyriq V provides a distinct combination of luxury, style, and brand prestige. Despite some of the inherent challenges of current EV technology, such as its charging speed, the Lyriq V successfully delivers on its promise. It's a true luxury performance SUV that also happens to be electric, offering owners the ultimate bragging right as the quickest Cadillac ever made.