Cadillac has recently provided updated range figures for its 2024 Lyriq RWD and 2024 Lyriq AWD models. The term “updated” is used because the luxury automaker had previously tested both versions of the 2023 Lyriq, but the Lyriq AWD is set to be released for the public in 2024. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the 2023 Lyriq RWD has an EPA-rated range of 312 miles on a single charge, while the Lyriq AWD is rated at 307 miles on a charge. These range figures were achieved with 20-inch wheels, which are considered the best option for the luxury crossover. As for the 2024 models, their range figures have not yet been updated on the EPA site, but Cadillac has provided its own numbers, stating that the 2024 Lyriq RWD can go 314 miles on a charge, while the Lyriq AWD has a range of 307 miles. Again, these figures were achieved with the use of 20-inch wheels.
It’s worth noting that the range figures for both the RWD and AWD versions have fluctuated throughout the year. In documents submitted to the EPA in February, General Motors (GM), the parent company of Cadillac, provided estimated ranges for both drivetrains for the 2023 model year. These estimates were based on 20-inch wheels, which were the only size offered at the time, as well as on the new optional 22-inch wheels, which were considered a “worst-case scenario.” The initial figures suggested that the RWD on 20-inch wheels would have a combined driving range of 312 miles, while the AWD on 20-inch wheels was estimated at 300 miles. The RWD on 22-inch wheels was projected to have a combined range of 287 miles, and the AWD on 22-inch wheels was estimated at 276 miles.
However, in certification papers submitted in May for the 2024 Lyriq RWD, the figures had dropped to 307 miles on 20-inch wheels and 274 miles on 22-inch wheels. Additional papers submitted in June for the 2024 Lyriq AWD did not align with the earlier estimates.
What is clear is that the Cadillac Lyriq retail site now states that the 2024 Lyriq RWD has a range of 314 miles on 20-inch wheels, while the Lyriq AWD has a range of 307 miles. The specific changes made to the RWD trim to achieve an additional two miles of range are not clear, nor is it clear how the engineers managed to get the AWD range so close to that of the RWD model. The Lyriq RWD features a single electric motor in the rear, producing 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the Lyriq AWD is equipped with two motors, delivering a combined 500 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. The more powerful rear motor is responsible for the majority of the power. Choosing the AWD option adds $3,550 to the RWD trim, which is considered a fair premium considering the extra power and technology while losing only a minimal amount of travel distance on the smaller wheel size.
However, it should be noted that real-world experiences will be needed to verify these range figures. In a research paper released in April, the Society of Automotive Engineers and Car and Driver reported that most battery electric vehicles (BEVs) tested so far have fallen short of their labeled electric consumption and range values. The discrepancy between claimed and actual EV driving ranges is said to be wider compared to vehicles powered by internal combustion engines.
