Available in Cadillac Lyriq Sport & Luxury models, Super Cruise is a semi-autonomous hands-free driving feature. I have driven similar systems in other models but have to say that Super Cruise takes the lead on this technology. The system is easy to engage with and operates incredibly smoothly. Once cruise control is on, the Super Cruise light will illuminate on the digital cluster if available. It will currently engage on over 400,000 miles of compatible roads throughout the US and Canada including both divided and undivided highways. When it is safe to do so, press the Super Cruise button on the steering wheel to engage Super Cruise. When the symbol and steering-wheel light bar illuminate in green, you may remove your hands from the steering wheel. Do not remove your hands from the steering wheel unless the light bar is green, which indicates that Super Cruise is steering the vehicle. To disengage Super Cruise, press the Super Cruise button again or press the brake pedal.
Once engaged, it maintains its placement on the center of lane thanks to multiple real-time cameras, sensors, GPS, and LiDar precision map data. Distance behind the vehicle in front is set by the driver and maintained automatically. Super Cruise also features automatic lane changing or lane change on demand. If you approach a car that is driving slower than your set speed, the Lyriq will automatically change lanes to pass the vehicle ahead of you. Before changing lanes, it will notify the driver via the digital cluster and seat vibrations. It will also change lanes automatically if it senses a vehicle behind you following closely to get out of the way for that driver. It works seamlessly and appropriately, never “cutting off” other drivers. The lane change system can also be engaged on-demand when the driver turns a turn signal on.
A small camera ensures driver attentiveness and focus on the road ahead. If the car senses the driver is not focused, the steering wheel light-bar flashes for the first alert, turns red on the second alert, the seat vibrates, and it will direct the driver to take over control. If the driver does not take over, the Lyriq will slow down and safely come to a stop. Super Cruise was beyond impressive as I was able to let the Lyriq drive me home from work on the highway minimizing the stress of traffic. Kudos to GM & Cadillac for developing such an intelligent system that is easy to operate.
For more on the Cadillac Lyriq, read the full review at www.DriveChicago.com .
Test Vehicle: 2023 Cadillac Lyriq RWD Debut Edition
Exterior Color: Satin Steel Metallic
Interior Color: Sky Cool Gray
Notable Options: Black Roof ($600), 22” Alloy wheels ($1,550)
MSRP as tested (including delivery & processing fees): $62,130
Pros: Super Cruise, high-end interior, smooth ride, solid range, stylish exterior, spacious cabin, LED lighting
Cons: Complicated infotainment navigation, lacking front cargo space
