2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V Initial Driving Review: Achieving What Mercedes Could Not

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      As the Cadillac Lyriq-V launched from the line for its 0-60 mph acceleration, I felt a physical pressure in my head. However, after performing this exhilarating feat for an hour until Team Cadillac called it, the discomfort quickly faded into normalcy.

      Remarkably, I found myself achieving quicker times than Cadillac's advertised figures for their latest V model. While the initial discomfort was real, it didn't last long. Despite its rapid acceleration, the interior envelops passengers in luxurious leather, soft-touch materials, and chrome accents, evoking a sense of luxury that many might have thought Cadillac could no longer master. Moreover, the design is encased in an elegant exterior that avoids excessive carbon fiber embellishments. This stands in stark contrast to modern AMG models, and it's hard not to feel a sense of pride seeing Cadillac making a comeback.

      The 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V marks the first electric vehicle to don the V-Series badge and is the quickest production Cadillac ever made. It offers an understated package with minimal drawbacks, none of which are unique to the V.

      Rather than being a completely new model, the Cadillac Lyriq-V serves as a faster, stronger, and pricier performance version of the well-regarded Lyriq introduced in recent years. Additionally, it provides some upgrades for the 2026 Lyriq line. It now tops the Lyriq range and could very well be the discreet luxury EV worth purchasing.

      This car is a hidden gem, and I appreciate it in a way that AMG appears to have overlooked in its pursuit of a younger demographic. At first glance, the Lyriq doesn’t immediately signal that it’s the V model; a closer inspection—or the eye of a Cadillac enthusiast—reveals its distinct features. The appealing dash-to-axle ratio and compact rear continue from the standard model, with the V incorporating specific front and rear lower fascias, redesigned 22-inch wheels, and distinctive badging. The V also features a standard black roof (which other Lyriqs can opt for), a ride height lowered by 0.62 inches (which you likely noticed), and buyers can choose a carbon fiber front and rear splitter/diffuser along with side sill extensions for an additional $5,700. While driving, it might be challenging to identify the V model.

      Inside, it offers the standard Lyriq experience, which is quite impressive. This means a 33-inch LED display complemented by buttons, knobs, and my preferred toggles. The interior design is clean with comfortable, supportive seating. However, it does retain some of the packaging limitations found in every Lyriq and most Ultium-based EVs, such as a notably deep dashboard and rear seats that sit slightly high. Nevertheless, I would happily take a road trip in this vehicle. There are no excessive carbon fiber accents, and the touchscreen software remains uncomplicated. Some red accents appear on the screen, and there's a new V mode button on the steering wheel and drive mode selector. That’s all, and it's perfectly acceptable.

      Significant updates for the V occur beneath its exterior. The 102-kWh battery pack shared with other Lyriqs powers upgraded motors on each axle, producing a total of 615 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque in Velocity Max mode. While the battery itself remains unchanged, the cooling system received upgrades to facilitate improved flow, essential for the V model's performance. The battery’s discharge current limit has been increased by 25% via software, explaining the need for enhanced cooling. Each drive mode prompts the cooling system to ensure optimal temperatures through the balancing of battery and climate control output. Additionally, the drive units have revised final drive ratios, with the front unit increasing from 9.85 to 11.59 and the rear from 10.5 to 11.6. Cadillac also enlarged the rear drive unit’s half shaft diameter from 41mm to 44mm.

      In contrast to the 2026 Rivian R1T Quad, Cadillac upgraded the Lyriq-V’s braking system to manage the increased power with 6-piston Brembo calipers gripping 15.3-inch front rotors and single-piston 13.6-inch rear discs.

      For enhanced control and reduced body roll, the V model is equipped with Sachs adaptive dampers—the only Lyriq variant to forego passive dampers. Cadillac engineer Alex Doss explained that the decision to use adaptive dampers instead of magnetic ride control was due to the heavy nature of EVs. The continuous damping control offered by the valve-based system provides a broader rebound control range, crucial for handling a vehicle weighing 5,980 pounds. Other suspension components were also upgraded to accommodate the additional power, including a rear roll bar that is 533% stiffer, a front top mount that is 140% stiffer,