XM vs Lyriq
Choosing between BMW and Cadillac often comes down to a specific pair of products. In the midsize luxury suv class, that pair is the XM and the Lyriq. Where they differ, they differ gently, which makes the few meaningful gaps worth a closer look.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance XM wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance9.4
- Engine & Performance2.6
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The XM has 279 hp more power
The Lyriq is clearly behind on total system output (365 hp against 644 hp), and that’s one of its biggest weak spots in this matchup. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The XM has 265 lb-ft more torque
On this line of the spec sheet, the XM is in a different league: 590 lb-ft, next to 325 lb-ft for the Lyriq. The XM’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | XM | Lyriq |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 196.7 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 77.8 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 121.8 in |
Engine & Performance
XM leads
The XM dominates the engine & performance section, and the gaps are large enough to matter in daily use. The XM adds 279 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. For engine & performance, the XM is the one to beat.
Total system output
XM: 644 hp Lyriq: 365 hp The XM’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Torque
XM: 590 lb-ft Lyriq: 325 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
The space & practicality section is even. Any gaps here are within the range you’d never notice. For space & practicality, pick whichever you prefer for other reasons.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Side by side, the off-road & towing figures for the XM and the Lyriq barely differ. The off-road & towing verdict: no winner, and no reason to worry either way.
Safety & Tech
Here the spec sheet speaks in model names and types. Compare the XM and the Lyriq row by row in the table below.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | XM | Lyriq |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Plug-in hybrid | Battery electric |
| Engine | 4.4L twin-turbo V8 + electric motor | Single-motor electric |
| Total system output | 644 hp (winner) Most powerful in class | 365 hp |
| Torque | 590 lb-ft (winner) | 325 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | Single-speed |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) | RWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | XM | Lyriq |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 14 mpg Thirstiest in class | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 12 mpg Thirstiest in the city | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 17 mpg Thirstiest on the highway | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 326 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | XM | Lyriq |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 28 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 60.8 cu ft |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | XM | Lyriq |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | XM | Lyriq |
|---|---|---|
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | N/A (not specified) | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto |
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | XM | Lyriq |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 196.7 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 77.8 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 121.8 in |
Price
| Spec | XM | Lyriq |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | N/A (not specified) | $58,595 |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the XM if…
- you want more power (644 hp vs 365 hp)
- you want more pulling power from low speeds (590 lb-ft vs 325 lb-ft of torque)
- you prefer staying with BMW
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the XM or the Lyriq?
On the specs compared here, the XM makes more sense for most buyers; the Lyriq doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
I’ll be upfront: I have no stake in whether you buy BMW or Cadillac. I only care that you end up with the right one of the XM and the Lyriq. To me, the standout is that the XM offers 279 hp more power.
I’d match them like this: engine & performance to the XM, the things a spec sheet can’t capture to the Lyriq.
My pick: the XM.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.