2024 Cadillac LYRIQ vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ was a striking vehicle with a design that commanded attention. Its exterior styling was reminiscent of a long sedan, despite being an SUV, with a long hood and low ground clearance. The vertical light bars and LED headlights added a modern touch, while the grille and lighting effects enhanced its unique style. Inside, the LYRIQ boasted luxurious details, such as leather-wrapped seats and polished controls, creating an upscale atmosphere. However, the floating center console was a design misstep, offering little functionality.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 had a more understated yet appealing design. The excessive charcoal-colored plastic on the lower body was a point of contention, but the overall look was sleek with short overhangs and a rakish roofline. Inside, the CX-30 felt like a class above, with quality materials and a refined layout. The interior was stylish and functional, with clear gauges and a well-integrated infotainment screen. The CX-30's design was practical, with a focus on comfort and ease of use.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ, despite its sporty appearance, was more about comfort than performance. It excelled on the interstate, offering a calm and poised ride with a dual-motor powertrain producing 500 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. The standard setup was a single rear motor with 340 hp and 325 lb-ft. The LYRIQ's 102-kilowatt-hour battery provided a range of 314 miles with RWD and 307 miles with AWD, though real-world testing showed closer to 260 miles. Charging was efficient, but the handling was a letdown due to its hefty 5,800-pound weight, resulting in understeer and uninspiring steering feel.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 hp and 320 pound-feet of torque. The power delivery was smooth, and the six-speed automatic transmission provided flawless shifting. The CX-30 was fun to drive, with a nimble and connected ride, making it feel like the sports car of its class. However, fuel economy was a downside, with an observed 21.3 mpg. The CX-30's AWD system and off-road capabilities added versatility, making it suitable for various driving conditions.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ had some functional issues, with misaligned rear fenders and a problematic charging port. The interior space was generous, with ample headroom and legroom, but the cargo space was limited at 28 cubic feet behind the seats and 60.8 cubic feet when folded. The floating console and small center cubby were impractical, and the touchscreen controls were cumbersome.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 offered a well-designed interior with quality materials and logical controls. The cabin was stylish, with gloss black trim and metallic accents. While the back seat was cramped, the front seats were comfortable and easy to adjust. The cargo space was flexible, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the back seat and 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The CX-30's interior was practical and user-friendly.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ featured a 33-inch OLED screen with three sections, offering touch-enabled controls and a large, legible instrument cluster. The infotainment system ran native Google Maps and Google Assistant, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Super Cruise system was a standout feature, providing excellent hands-free driving capabilities. The 19-speaker AKG stereo added to the high-tech experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's turbocharged versions came with a new 10.25-inch infotainment display, offering touchscreen functionality with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the screen's distance from the driver was a drawback. The CX-30 included a three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services and new USB-C ports. The Bose premium audio system and wireless smartphone charger were available on higher trims.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. It came standard with forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Cadillac's Safety Alert Seat. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was a safety-focused vehicle, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and five-star ratings from NHTSA, except for rollover resistance. It included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system.