Almost three years ago, in March 2023, Cadillac Society was the first to report that a high-performance Cadillac Lyriq-V was on the way. Following a brief teaser toward the end of 2024, the luxury marque has now officially announced the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V, providing us with specs, features and pricing.
First, let’s get the big stuff out of the way: the Lyriq-V features a Cadillac-estimated 615 horsepower that enables it to sprint from 0-60 mph in a Cadillac-estimated 3.3 seconds, making it the quickest Cadillac ever. A unique suspension joins forces with unique exterior and interior touches for the first-ever battery-electric V-Series vehicle.
Performance
A standard dual motor all-wheel drive system delivers a Cadillac-estimated 615 horsepower and 650 pound-feet (880 Nm) of torque, enabled by Velocity Max, a driver-selectable feature that unleashes the vehicle’s full performance capability. The source for the power is a 102 kilowatt-hour battery pack that will enable a Cadillac-estimated 285 miles of driving range per charge.
Cadillac says that the Lyriq-V delivers a unique expression of the marque’s signature Isolated Precision – a driving experience that’s quiet, smooth and effortless, but with a strong connection to the road. The chassis is comprised of standard Continuous Damping Control (CDC), which is specifically calibrated for the Lyriq-V, plus a lowered (by 16 mm) multi-link suspension and a quicker steering ratio, delivering comfortable yet spirited ride and handling. Those expecting Air Ride Control (for vertical height adjustment) or Magnetic Ride Control are out of luck, as the lowered CDC setup is the one and only suspension.
“Lyriq-V brings luxury, technology and performance together to push its capabilities to the limit,” said Lyriq-V chief engineer, Dave Stutzman. “With the combination of its rigid body structure and lower center 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.”
Additional performance-supporting and enhancing technologies include:
- Competitive Mode enables a suite of traction management features specifically engineered to increase vehicle agility.
- V-Mode, which takes performance customization further, allowing drivers to save performance-focused settings, including Competitive Mode and a unique sound experience. It’s intended to offer instant access to the driver’s preferred performance-driving settings via the V button on the steering wheel. V-Mode can also be accessed in the Drive Mode app within the 33-inch-diagonal advanced LED display.
- Unique, multi-layered sound experience, with interior and exterior signature sounds that are “synchronized for an orchestrated sonic experience.”
- Launch Control is designed for consistently thrilling straight line acceleration. When engaged in V-Mode or Velocity Max, the vehicle will deliver an extremely rapid 3.3 second 0-60 acceleration.
- Brembo performance front brake calipers are standard. In addition to providing excellent stopping capability, they’re designed to provide consistent, fade-resistant performance during spirited driving. Available red calipers are accented with the V-Series logo.
- Standard Super Cruise, the industry’s first truly hands-free driver assistance technology (with three years of OnStar connected service).
Exterior
On the outside, the Lyriq-V starts out with the same attractive body as regular Lyriqs, adding several key touches for a distinctive persona that, according to Cadillac, “projects power and refinement through a sporty aesthetic.”
The LED “grille”, officially known as the Black Crystal Shield, is the same as on the Lyriq Sport, integrating Cadillac’s signature choreographed lighting. Like other V-Series models, the Lyriq-V features a unique lower front fascia with a V-pattern mesh on the front lower grille and a unique chin spoiler. Unique side rockers and body colored lower trim differentiate the Lyriq-V from other Lyriq models. Additionally, unique carbon fiber accents are optional, which Cadillac Society reported on back in 2023. The V-Series logo adorns the rear doors and the tailgate.
A unique set of 22-inch wheels with a dark sport finish and an etched V-Series logo are standard. They can be wrapped in either standard summer or available all-season tires.
From a color standpoint, Cadillac says that the Lyriq-V will offer “an exciting exterior color palate”, which includes a limited exterior color option called Magnus Metal Frost, which is Cadillac speak for matte. A black painted roof is standard, providing a sinister appearance.
Interior
The interior of the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V is the same as the “regular” Lyriq, but with a few key differences that reinforce its performance persona.
What’s the same is the 33-inch diagonal LED display spanning the gauge cluster and center stack screen, a panoramic fixed glass roof, 23-speaker AKG Studio Audio System with Dolby Atmos, plus the 2-3 (front-rear) seating layout. From there, the Lyriq-V adds several unique features, including:
- Standard paperwood décor, available Nappa leather seating and available embroidery and V-pattern detailing on the seatbacks
- A unique steering wheel with a sport rim and sculpted hand grips, V-Series logo, a standout V-Mode button, and an aluminum Regen On Demand paddle
- Power-adjustable seat bolsters for the seatbacks and seat cushions on the driver and front passenger seats
- Infotainment experience updated with specific customization options reflecting the V-Series persona
- A signature V-Series illuminated sill plate
A signature “interior sound” is also part and parcel, and the Lyriq-V will launch a dual-plane Augmented Reality Head Up Display.
Pricing And Availability
The Cadillac Lyriq-V will be available in the U.S., Canada, and globally. U.S. pricing starts at $79,990 (including destination freight charge but excluding tax, title and dealer fees).
Production is scheduled to start in “early 2025” at the Spring Hill plant in Tennessee.
