2026 Cadillac Lyriq V
The First All-Electric Cadillac to Wear the V-Series Badge
When Cadillac first introduced the all-electric Lyriq nearly four years ago, it arrived with everything people expected from the brand. Bold Art and Science design, a premium interior loaded with technology, and over 300 miles of electric range. However, its early journey in the US market was not smooth. Production delays, supplier issues, and quality concerns slowed momentum.
As Cadillac fixed those problems and ramped up production, the Lyriq steadily became one of the bestselling midsize luxury electric SUVs in America. For 2026, Cadillac has taken the Lyriq one step further by introducing a performance-focused version for the first time.
This is the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq V, and it marks an important milestone. It is the first Cadillac ever to wear the V-Series badge with a fully electric drivetrain. With over 600 horsepower on tap, it is also the quickest accelerating Cadillac the company has ever produced.
Powertrain and Performance Overview
The Lyriq V uses a revised version of GM’s Ultium architecture. Unlike some other Ultium-based models, it does not offer a front trunk. Cadillac says this decision allows room for an optional high-capacity onboard charger.
Key Powertrain Specifications
Dual electric motor setup
102 kWh lithium-ion battery pack
Standard electronic all-wheel drive
Single-speed reduction gear transmission
Output and Acceleration
| Specification | Cadillac Lyriq-V |
|---|---|
| Power | 615 horsepower |
| Torque | 650 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | 3.3 seconds (claimed) |
| Tested 0–60 mph | Around 3.38 seconds |
| Top Speed | Just over 130 mph |
For context, the regular all-wheel-drive Lyriq produces around 515 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. The V adds roughly 100 horsepower and nearly 200 lb-ft more torque, which is a substantial jump.
By the numbers, the Lyriq V is quicker to 60 mph than the CT5-V Blackwing, making it the fastest accelerating Cadillac to date.
Weight and Driving Character
Curb weight is just over 6,000 pounds
Heavy feel is noticeable in corners
Straight-line performance is effortless and immediate
Cadillac has also retuned the suspension specifically for the V. It uses Sachs adaptive dampers rather than air suspension. Despite the large 22-inch wheels, ride quality remains surprisingly comfortable for daily use.
Range, Charging, and Real-World Efficiency
The added performance comes with a small range penalty.
Range and Charging Details
EPA-estimated range: up to 285 miles
About 15 miles less than the standard AWD Lyriq
Real-world testing in cold conditions averaged around 250 miles
Charging Capabilities
CCS combo charging port
DC fast charging up to 190 kW
10 to 90 percent charge in around 45 minutes
Optional 19.2 kW onboard charger
Full home charge in under 8 hours with the high-output charger
Charging speed is acceptable but not class-leading. Packaging efficiency could have been better given the vehicle’s size.
Exterior Design and V-Specific Styling
The Lyriq was already one of the most distinctive electric SUVs in its segment, and the V treatment builds on that foundation.
Front Design Highlights
Dark chrome accents
Illuminated Cadillac crest
Animated LED light choreography during lock, unlock, and charging
Vertical stacked LED headlights with sequential indicators
Gloss black front splitter and active grille shutters
Standard Super Cruise hardware integrated into the front fascia
Side Profile and Dimensions
Length: 196.7 inches
Wheelbase: 121.8 inches
Roughly 6 to 8 inches longer than most rivals
The proportions give the Lyriq V a bold presence, making it stand out next to competitors like the Tesla Model Y, Audi Q6 e-tron, or Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV.
Wheels, Brakes, and Suspension
Exclusive 22-inch V-specific alloy wheels
Michelin all-season tires
275/40 R22 tire size
15.7-inch front rotors with Brembo six-piston calipers
13.8-inch rear rotors
Brakes are around 2 inches larger than the standard Lyriq
Stopping power is noticeably improved, matching the performance upgrade.
Rear Design
Bold LED tail light signature with sequential elements
Subtle V-Series badging
Aggressive rear bumper design
No rear wiper due to aerodynamic design
Illuminated rear Cadillac logo
The Lyriq’s design has aged well, and in the right color combination, it still turns heads even after several years on sale.
Cargo Space and Practicality
Despite its size, cargo space is not a class leader.
Cargo Capacity
| Configuration | Storage Space |
|---|---|
| Seats up | Just under 30 cubic feet |
| Seats folded | Just under 60 cubic feet |
Additional notes:
No third row seating
Deep under-floor storage
Side storage compartments
Power liftgate operated via Cadillac logo
Cadillac could have extracted more space from the footprint. Smaller rivals offer similar cargo capacity with less exterior bulk.
Interior Design and Technology
Cadillac focused heavily on making the Lyriq V feel like a true luxury vehicle inside.
Cabin Layout and Materials
33-inch curved OLED display
Claimed 9K resolution
Premium leather and real wood trim
Ambient lighting embedded into wood grain
V-specific steering wheel and alloy sport pedals
The interior feels modern, upscale, and distinctly Cadillac.
Seats and Comfort
The tested vehicle was equipped with the optional Premium package.
Full Nappa leather upholstery
Heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats
16-way power adjustment
Aggressive V-specific bolstering
V-Series embroidery on seatbacks
Speakers integrated into headrests
The seats are comfortable and supportive, suitable for both spirited driving and long trips.
Infotainment and Driver Assistance
One major highlight is something that may not last long.
Infotainment Features
Wireless Apple CarPlay
Wireless Android Auto
Google built-in system
Fast and responsive interface
Physical controls for key functions
This is one of the last GM electric vehicles to still offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it especially appealing to buyers who prefer phone integration.
Driver Assistance
Super Cruise standard
Hands-free highway driving
Driver monitoring camera
Augmented reality head-up display
360-degree camera system
Super Cruise remains one of the best hands-free driving systems available today.
Rear Seat Space and Comfort
Rear seat accommodation is strong and family-friendly.
Legroom: approximately 39.5 inches
Flat floor design
Heated rear seats
Three-zone climate control
Rear USB ports and power outlet
Fold-down armrest with cup holders
The panoramic sunroof slightly reduces headroom, but overall comfort remains excellent for adult passengers.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The Lyriq V Series Premium comes loaded with safety tech. Cadillac has included almost every modern assistance feature available.
Key safety features
Enhanced automatic emergency braking
Intersection automatic emergency braking
Reverse automatic braking
Rear cross-traffic braking
Enhanced automatic parking assist
Forward collision alert
Rear pedestrian alert
Front pedestrian and bicyclist braking
Side bicyclist alert
Blind zone steering assist
HD surround vision camera system
Interior movement sensor
Inclination sensor
This makes the Lyriq V one of the most safety-packed performance EVs in its segment.
Driving Experience and V Mode
The V button on the steering wheel unlocks the Lyriq V’s full performance.
V Mode Features
Full 615 horsepower output
Launch control activation
Adjustable suspension and steering
Modified stability control
Customizable performance settings
Without V mode engaged, output drops to around 515 horsepower, and 0–60 mph times increase by roughly 0.7 seconds.
Real-World Acceleration Testing
0–60 mph in V mode: ~3.38 seconds
0–60 mph without V mode: ~4.1 seconds
Acceleration is immediate and repeatable. While the synthesized performance sound is divisive, the thrust is undeniable.
Ride, Handling, and Build Quality
Ride quality remains comfortable despite large wheels
Suspension absorbs bumps well
Steering is responsive but not very communicative
Body roll is present due to weight
Build quality has improved significantly compared to early Lyriq models
No squeaks or rattles during testing
This is not a track-focused V model, but it excels as a fast, comfortable daily performance SUV.
Pricing and Variants
US Pricing Overview
Base Lyriq RWD: around $60,695
AWD Lyriq: around $65,000
Premium Sport AWD: around $73,000
Lyriq V: starts around $80,000
Lyriq V Premium: around $85,000
Tested vehicle: approximately $87,000
When compared to similarly equipped trims, the jump to the V is roughly $7,000, which feels reasonable for the performance gain.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Cadillac Lyriq V successfully brings V-Series performance into the electric era without sacrificing daily comfort. It delivers brutal straight-line speed, standout design, a luxurious interior, and one of the best hands-free driving systems available.
It is not the sharpest handling V model Cadillac has ever made, and range could be better. However, as an everyday performance electric SUV that still feels premium and special, it works extremely well.
For buyers who want electric performance with real luxury and who still value Apple CarPlay, the Lyriq V stands out in a crowded segment.
2026 Cadillac Lyriq V Frequently Asked Questions
The 2026 Cadillac Lyriq V is the first all-electric Cadillac to wear the V-Series badge. It is a performance focused version of the Lyriq, featuring a dual motor all-wheel drive setup with significantly higher power and sharper tuning compared to the standard model.
The Lyriq V produces 615 horsepower and 650 lb ft of torque. This is about 100 horsepower and nearly 200 lb ft more than the regular all-wheel drive Lyriq.
Cadillac claims a 0 to 60 mph time of around 3.3 seconds. Real world testing shows consistent runs in the 3.3 to 3.4 second range when the vehicle is in V mode.
The EPA estimated range of the Lyriq V is up to 285 miles on a full charge. In real world mixed driving, especially in colder conditions, owners can expect around 250 miles of usable range.
Yes, the Lyriq V supports DC fast charging up to 190 kW using a CCS connector. It can charge from 10 percent to 90 percent in roughly 45 minutes. An optional 19.2 kW onboard charger is also available for faster home charging.
The Lyriq V does not offer a front trunk because of its modified Ultium platform layout. Cadillac prioritized space for components like the available 19.2 kW onboard charger instead of front storage.
The Lyriq V features exclusive 22 inch alloy wheels, Brembo performance brakes, V-Series badging, a sport oriented design theme, dark chrome accents, and unique lighting animations. The Opulent Blue paint option is also a highlight on the V model.
The Lyriq V comes with a V specific adaptive suspension using Sachs dampers. It is tuned for better body control and performance while still maintaining daily driving comfort. It does not use air suspension.
Yes, Super Cruise comes standard on the Lyriq V. It allows hands free driving on compatible highways and includes a three year subscription from Cadillac.
The Lyriq V offers a 33 inch curved OLED display, V-Series sport seats with optional premium Nappa leather, heating, ventilation and massage, a 23 speaker AKG audio system, ambient lighting, and an augmented reality head up display.
Yes, the Lyriq V supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is one of the last GM electric vehicles to offer full phone integration alongside Google built in services.
The Lyriq V offers just under 30 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and nearly 60 cubic feet with the seats folded down. While usable, it is slightly less than some rivals considering the overall size of the vehicle.
The Lyriq V starts at around 80,000 dollars in the United States. A fully loaded Premium V trim with options like Nappa leather and upgraded audio can reach approximately 87,000 dollars.
For buyers who want maximum acceleration, V-Series branding, upgraded brakes, suspension tuning, and exclusive styling, the Lyriq V offers strong value for the extra cost. Those prioritizing range or price may find the regular Lyriq or Optiq V more suitable.
