So you’re eyeing up the Cadillac Lyriq, all-electric, all-luxury, and all kinds of high-tech. But one question keeps buzzing louder than a poorly tuned charging cable: do the driving modes actually change your range or how fast you chew through the battery?
Spoiler: yes, they absolutely do.
But before you panic about losing 20 miles of range because you flicked it into Sport Mode to overtake a lorry on the M1, let’s take a sensible (and slightly cheeky) look at how driving modes in the Lyriq work and what it really means for UK drivers navigating British roads, roundabouts, and questionable weather.
What Are the Driving Modes in the Cadillac Lyriq and What Do They Do?
The Lyriq isn’t just coasting on looks, it comes with multiple driving modes that change how the vehicle behaves, much like mood swings, but for good reason. Each mode adjusts throttle response, power delivery, and regenerative braking intensity, which in turn affects energy consumption and driving range.
Here are the key modes (UK market naming may vary slightly, but the behaviour is consistent):
- Tour (aka Normal): The balanced all-rounder for everyday use. Decent efficiency with smooth performance.
- Sport: Cranks up throttle response for a snappier, more dynamic drive. Great fun, less efficient.
- Slippery: For rain-soaked roundabouts or frosty mornings in Sheffield. It tones down acceleration to maximise traction.
- V-Mode / Performance Mode: The most aggressive setting with enhanced power delivery and launch control. Sounds fun. Eats range.
- One-Pedal Driving: Not a full mode, but a setting that enables strong regenerative braking. Ideal for city traffic and energy recovery.
How Do These Driving Modes Affect Energy Usage and Range?
Imagine the battery as your wallet. Sport Mode is like buying rounds at the pub for the entire table, fun but expensive. Tour Mode is buying your own pint and heading home early. And Slippery Mode is just holding onto your money for a rainy day.
Here’s how it plays out:
- Sport Mode: Quick acceleration means higher power draw from the battery. Expect 10–15% lower range in this setting, especially if used aggressively.
- Tour Mode: This gives you the manufacturer’s quoted range figures, assuming moderate driving.
- Slippery Mode: It can slightly improve efficiency in poor traction conditions, but it’s more about safety than energy saving.
- V-Mode: Think race mode. Instant torque, aggressive dynamics… and you’ll be heading to the charger sooner than planned.
- One-Pedal Driving: By using regenerative braking to recover energy every time you lift off the accelerator, this mode helps extend range, particularly in urban stop-and-go traffic.
Is One-Pedal Driving the Secret to Better Efficiency?
You know that feeling when you’re stuck in central London traffic and constantly stopping and starting? That’s where One-Pedal Driving shines.
This feature turns the accelerator into a multifunction pedal, press to go, lift to slow. The regen braking is so strong, you can practically drive without touching the brake pedal. The energy recovered during deceleration is fed back into the battery, extending range over time.
Cadillac allows drivers to adjust regen braking intensity as well. So whether you’re crawling through Camden or coasting through Cornwall, you can tailor it to match the setting.
How Much Range Variation Can Be Expected Between Driving Modes?
To provide a clearer picture of how different modes can affect range, here’s a comparative overview of estimated energy use and potential impact on range:
| Driving Mode | Description | Estimated Energy Use | Potential Range Impact |
| Tour / Normal | Balanced everyday driving | Moderate | Baseline range |
| Sport | Performance-focused | High | –10% to –15% |
| V-Mode | Maximum responsiveness | Very High | –15% to –20% |
| Slippery | Low-traction, soft throttle | Low/Moderate | Slight variance |
| One-Pedal Driving | Regen-heavy urban driving | Low | +5% to +10% (urban use) |
It’s worth noting that driving behaviour, such as sudden acceleration or harsh braking and has just as much impact as mode selection. Combining gentle throttle control with efficient modes like Tour and One-Pedal can offer surprisingly long-range results.
Are the Lyriq’s Driving Modes Unique Compared to Other EVs?
While many electric vehicles on the market today offer some version of drive modes, the Cadillac Lyriq offers a refined approach that blends technology and usability. Unlike vehicles where modes are limited to performance and eco presets, the Lyriq’s driving characteristics are distinctly tuned, with noticeable changes in behaviour between each setting.
In contrast, cars like the Tesla Model Y offer limited customisation of regenerative braking, and the Audi Q8 e-tron prioritises comfort over configurability. The Lyriq stands out by offering configurable regen braking, a responsive One-Pedal Driving feature, and adaptive drive settings that genuinely affect how the car uses its battery.
FAQs – What Do Drivers Commonly Ask About Driving Modes in the Lyriq?
Can switching modes while driving damage the battery or powertrain?
No. The Lyriq is designed to switch between modes seamlessly without causing mechanical or electrical harm.
Is One-Pedal Driving available in all modes?
It can be toggled separately and used alongside modes like Tour. Its efficiency benefits are most noticeable in urban environments.
Do the climate controls affect range more than driving modes?
In extreme weather, climate control can reduce range, but driving mode has a more consistent day-to-day impact.
Can I customise driving modes in the Lyriq?
Some aspects, like regenerative braking intensity, can be adjusted, but the core behaviour of each mode is fixed.
Is V-Mode always available?
Availability may depend on model trim and configuration. It’s most common in performance-oriented variants.
Will I lose regenerative braking benefits on the motorway?
You’ll still get some regen from deceleration, but One-Pedal Driving is most effective in stop-start traffic.
How often should I switch modes?
As often as conditions change. Switching between Tour and Sport, or enabling Slippery mode during rain, can optimise both safety and efficiency.
