I don’t speak the langue of auto designers, but I do know good looking car when I see it, and I am rather taken with the new-for-2023 Cadillac Lyriq. Cadillac’s first all-electric model, Lyriq has met with largely positive reviews, and seems to be selling rather well. You can read our driving impressions of the Lyriq here, and listen to our podcast review here.
Cadillac Lyriq: Best Automotive Designs
Specs
Vehicle Type: Premium Midsize Crossover EV
Year Introduced: 2023
Designer: Magalie Debellis
Overview
I write this, having now seen a number of Lyriqs in regular traffic. What impresses me most is that, without crossing the line on too many contemporary design standards, the midsize Caddy is clearly identifiable from a distance, and distinct from almost every angle.
Front End and Grille
Starting from the front, I commend Caddy stylists for not having completely abandoned the grille. While EV’s do not need a conventional radiator to feed outside air to, a bold grille has long been a recognizable Cadillac design trait, and Lyriq’s front end pays due homage to that tradition.
I also like the simple and bold headlight nacelles, which, from straight ahead, call attention to the beefy tires, giving Lyriq a solid, substantial, and planted appearance.
More electric-vehicle news and reviews
Profile
Lyriq’s profile is perhaps the crossover’s defining look. Because the EV’s profile lacks a traditional notch at its conclusion, it appears to ride longer and lower than it really is. Though actually somewhat lower in height and longer than BMW’s midsize X5, the Lyriq profile comes off as—dare I say it—station-wagon like, in the best possible way. Plus, Lyriq appears to take up some space on the road—it has presence–as a good luxury vehicle should.
Rear
From the rear, the light array that frames the rear glass helps to define the slope and conclusion of the roof. From this angle the Lyriq looks very modern and aerodynamic.
Cabin
The cabin, is refreshingly unchallenging, with the central focal point being the large contiguous touchscreen, which serves as both the instrument panel, and the center console. It’s clean, efficient, and effective. It’s also modern without being unnecessary complicated.
Some random design thoughts: The Lyriq is…
- Modern, but not too challenging
- Sleek, yet substantial
- Clean, but still richly detailed
And, Lyriq looks special without looking too “electric.”
Summary
On that last point, kudos to Cadillac for designing its first electric vehicle to look clean and new, without designing an in-your-face EV. Cadillac will soon rollout a number of new electric vehicles, including the 3-row Vistiq. We’re looking forward to seeing the new models on the street, and seeing how well the Caddy’s EV design language translates across the lineup.
2024 Cadillac Lyriq Pictures
(Click below for enlarged images)
