Cadillac has officially taken the wraps off the Lyriq-V, a 615-horsepower, high-performance electric SUV that boasts a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds, making it the quickest production vehicle in the luxury automaker's history.

The Lyriq-V's impressive acceleration is thanks to its 650 pound-feet of torque, which enables it to outpace the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, a car lauded for its expert engineering. While the difference may seem marginal – just a tenth of a second – it's a significant achievement considering the CT5-V Blackwing's reputation as one of the most expertly engineered American cars ever made.

However, it's worth noting that the acceleration time is measured on a closed course, using the Lyriq-V's Velocity Max mode, which is also available on Cadillac's forthcoming EV lineup. Additionally, the measurement includes a metric called "Initial Vehicle Movement," which is when the vehicle starts moving rather than when the green light goes off.

Despite the fine print, the Lyriq-V's performance specs are undeniably impressive. According to Cadillac boss John Roth, the goal was to create a car that "fits perfectly" into people's lives, rather than shattering records. The Lyriq-V builds upon the original Lyriq, with a 102kWh battery that provides an estimated 285 miles of range. It can gain around 75 miles of range in about 10 minutes when plugged into a DC fast charger or about 19 miles per hour when using a 240-volt Level 2 charger.

The Lyriq-V features a range of premium features, including 22-inch wheels with Brembo brake calipers, a "comfortable, yet spirited" handling experience thanks to its 5-link independent suspension and continuous damping control, and a CCS port for charging. It also includes a "unique sound experience" that simulates an engine growl, a feature that has become increasingly common among electric vehicles.

Other notable features include a button on the steering wheel for V-Mode, which is "a suite of traction management features specifically engineered to increase vehicle agility." The Lyriq-V will also support phone mirroring through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, unlike GM's other electric vehicles.

The electric V-Series has been in development for some time, with Cadillac first introducing the concept of an electrified V with the introduction of three V-Series.R hybrid race cars at the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and FIA World Endurance Championship races in 2023. The fully electric Lyriq-V was first teased in March 2024 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the inaugural launch of the V-Series.

The Lyriq-V is expected to start production at GM's Spring Hill, Tennessee, factory in early 2025, with a starting price of $79,990, including destination charges. As the latest entrant in the performance electric vehicle segment, the Lyriq-V is poised to compete with other luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi, which have all outlined plans for their own high-performance EVs.

In the context of the broader automotive industry, the Lyriq-V represents a significant shift towards electrification, particularly in the performance segment. With its impressive specs and premium features, the Lyriq-V is well-positioned to appeal to car buyers who are looking for a high-performance electric vehicle that can keep up with their active lifestyles.