Cadillac’s 2026 Lyriq-V Aims For High-Performance EV Market

Cadillac is turning up the heat on its electric SUV lineup with the new 2026 Lyriq-V, marking the first high-performance EV from the brand. Slated for an early 2025 debut, the Lyriq-V is set to compete with powerhouses like the BMW iX M60 and promises a blend of Cadillac luxury with the kind of punchy performance fans expect from a V-series model.

While Cadillac kept detailed specs under wraps, they did tease some intriguing upgrades in photos and video.

The Lyriq-V sports a subtle yet aggressive redesign, featuring sharper bumpers, a color-coded body kit, and Brembo brake calipers nestled behind beefy, multispoke alloy wheels. New V badges on the nose, tail, and rear doors, along with the lower stance, signal that this isn't your typical Lyriq.

Inside, a new “V” button on the steering wheel hints at a performance drive mode, though Cadillac hasn’t yet detailed what that means in terms of power and handling. If we look to the regular AWD Lyriq, which offers 500 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, Cadillac’s 2026 Lyriq-V should easily surpass those numbers.

Cadillac’s Ultium-based sibling, the Chevy Blazer EV SS, already boasts 595 hp, so expect the Lyriq-V to meet or exceed that to keep up with rivals. Cadillac has global aspirations for the Lyriq-V, planning both left- and right-hand drive models. Initially, it’ll roll out in North America, Australia, and New Zealand, with a broader release across other markets anticipated later.