While many assume that buying a luxury SUV requires venturing beyond an American brand, Cadillac consistently proves otherwise and is one of the most revered automakers in the United States. Cadillac is synonymous with opulence and innovation and has been since the early 1900s when it successfully brought luxury into the American automotive landscape. Today, Cadillac continues to inspire us by delivering transformative and engaging experiences in the driver’s seat.
This experience likely piqued your interest in a Cadillac Lyriq for sale, which then prompted another nose dive into the Cadillac XT5. As two of Cadillac’s most acclaimed SUVs, these models are truly extraordinary and share many similarities, like Cadillac’s cutting-edge driver assistance and connectivity features. But how do they differ? Is it possible to declare a winner? Let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Cadillac Lyriq and 2024 Cadillac XT5 to find out…
Classification: Details and Dimensions
The Lyriq and XT5 are midsize SUVs, but what does that mean? They aren’t carbon copies of one another, so how do they differ within the segment? Looking at the dimensions of these models paints a better picture, with the XT5 having a smaller footprint but sitting taller and offering more cargo room. For example, the Lyriq has a 121.8-inch wheelbase and measures 196.7 inches long, 86.9 inches wide, and 63.9 inches tall. Alternatively, the XT5 is smaller with its 112.5-inch wheelbase, 189.6-inch length, and 74.9-inch width, but is taller at 66.1 inches.
The XT5’s taller height translates to slightly more headroom in the first and second rows, measuring 39.7 inches and 38.4 inches. The headroom in the Lyriq measures 38.6 inches and 37.7 inches, with this SUV gaining the advantage and offering more legroom across both rows at 44.3 inches and 39.6 inches. This extra legroom comes at a modest cost to the Lyriq’s cargo space, which offers 60.8 cu.ft. compared to the XT5’s 63.0 cu.ft. of available room. This begs the question, “Is an extra three cubic feet worth feeling a little more cramped?”
Performance: Your Driving Experience
Despite minuscule differences in specifications, the Lyriq and XT5 are significantly different in how they perform. The XT5 delivers a traditional driving experience, reliant on an internal combustion engine that’s familiar to everyone. Alternatively, the Lyriq has an all-electric heartbeat that provides on-demand power and heightened responsiveness for a unique experience behind the steering wheel.
The 2024 XT5 rolls off the assembly line with a 2.0L Turbo I-4 or 3.6L V6 engine and smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission under its hood. The 2.0L Turbo powerplant produces 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the potent 3.6L V6 roars to life and delivers 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. This significant boost in horsepower reflects the 3.6L’s lower fuel economy, averaging 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. Alternatively, the 2.0L Turbo conservatively sips fuel to the tune of 22 MPG and 29 MPG, respectively.
While the XT5 is a notable performer, the Lyriq offers something even more remarkable. Instead of an internal combustion engine, the Lyriq relies on a lithium-ion battery and an electric drive unit for its power. With a single drive unit and motor, the rear-wheel-drive Lyriq produces 340 hp and 325 lb-ft of instant torque, translating to an estimated driving range of 314 miles. The all-wheel drive Lyriq relies on two drive units, increasing the SUV’s output to 500 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque anytime you need it.
Technology: Comfort and Convenience
There’s no doubt that the Lyriq and XT5 are luxurious and innovative, with Cadillac outfitting the SUVs with upscale interiors that feature premium materials and advanced technologies to keep you connected and informed. However, the models have a few key differences worth noting. Those differences position the XT5 as the more traditional luxury SUV and the Lyriq as the more modern and opulent.
Traditional vs Innovative
The 2024 XT5 is everything you expect from a Cadillac SUV, from luxuries like the heated steering wheel to the Semi-Aniline leather seating, suede headliner, and ambient lighting. Likewise, its tech-centric cockpit is impressive, framed by an 8.0-inch color touchscreen display with Embedded Navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Alexa Built-In. The Cadillac Smart System works behind the scenes, prioritizing your safety with standard tools and optional upgrades via the Driver Assist Package that adds Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Reverse Automatic Braking, and Automatic Seat Belt Tightening.
The XT5’s packaging is value-oriented, but the Lyriq gains an advantage among those looking for next-level luxury and technology. Cadillac pulls out all the stops and immerses the Lyriq in premium materials and handcrafted details, from the available Nappa Leather Package in Juniper and Oxford Stone to the fixed glass roof and optional panoramic power sunroof giving you a stunning view above wherever the road takes you. Heated rear outboard seating and tri-zone automatic climate control ensure your passengers’ comfort, complementing the heated power front seats and a cockpit that dreams are made of.
Where the XT5’s 8.0-inch center display is practical, the Lyriq’s 33.0-inch LED display is extravagant in all the right ways, as it emits over one billion hues. The extensive display reflects the Lyriq’s modern design and is home to a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, Google Built-In, and a host of connectivity tools. It’s also the best way to enjoy the Lyriq’s immersive, concert-like listening experience from Cadillac’s exclusive AKG Studio 19-speaker sound system.
As you’re enjoying your favorite playlist or listening to the latest headlines, you can do so confidently, knowing that the Lyriq is actively prioritizing your safety and experience in the driver’s seat. You’ll see this firsthand with Super Cruise, Cadillac’s hands-free driver assistance technology that works with major roadways across North America to make your drive hassle-free. Super Cruise adds to an already impressive lineup of features, including cutting-edge tools like Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking and Adaptive Headlights that optimize your vision in every condition.
And the Winner Is…
Choosing a winner between two midsize luxury SUVs built by the same manufacturer is an impossible feat. Cadillac’s reputation for excellence is well-established, with this automaker proving drivers can have everything they want and more in the driver’s seat. We see this firsthand in models like the 2024 Lyriq and the 2024 XT5—opulent chariots with distinct personalities and appeal.
If you’re looking for a traditional driving experience and the luxuries expected of a Cadillac SUV, then the 2024 XT5 is the ultimate choice. With two potent powertrains that are engaging and efficient, the XT5 is a road warrior fit for royalty. Its tech-savvy interior is fitted with premium materials and handcrafted details that leave no doubt it wears the Cadillac emblem. So, where does that leave its midsize sibling, the Lyriq?
Where the XT5 is traditional, the Lyriq defies tradition and ushers Cadillac into a new, electrified era. As an all-electric SUV with a penchant for thrills, the Lyriq doesn’t roar to life but quietly rumbles as its electric powertrain delivers instantaneous horsepower and torque for an incredibly engaging and responsive experience behind the wheel. That performance is only bettered by the Lyriq’s cabin, from its immaculate 33.0-inch LED display to its advanced technologies, premium sound system, and Nappa leather that effortlessly work together to create one of the most elegant and refined masterpieces in the segment.
Choosing between the two models comes back to you and your preferences. Do you value the traditional driving experience that requires stopping for fuel? Or are you ready to leap forward and electrify your future in the driver’s seat? Either way, you’re in excellent hands with Cadillac.
