BMW i4 vs Cadillac LYRIQ
Two electric cars go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BMW i4 starts from $88,900 before on-road costs, while the Cadillac LYRIQ opens at $90,000. That makes the BMW i4 the more affordable entry point by $1,100.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $97,790 and $99,000 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW i4 stands out with Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Cadillac LYRIQ. The Cadillac LYRIQ counters with AKG Studio audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW i4 uses a Electric producing 210kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.5 seconds.
The Cadillac LYRIQ responds with a Electric Motor making 388kW and 610Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds.
The Cadillac LYRIQ has the clear power advantage at 388kW vs 210kW. In the real-world sprint, the Cadillac LYRIQ is 0.2s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 64kWh (BMW i4) vs 102kWh (Cadillac LYRIQ), giving WLTP ranges of 527km and 530km. DC fast charging peaks at 205kW (BMW i4) vs 190kW (Cadillac LYRIQ).
Space & Comfort
The BMW i4 measures 4,783mm long on a 2,856mm wheelbase, 213mm shorter than the Cadillac LYRIQ at 4,996mm (3,094mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Cadillac LYRIQ generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 390L in the BMW i4 and 793L in the Cadillac LYRIQ, giving the Cadillac LYRIQ a 403L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.1m diameter
Average
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW i4) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Cadillac LYRIQ). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW i4 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Cadillac LYRIQ if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Cadillac's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Cadillac LYRIQ takes 6 of 8 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Cadillac LYRIQ has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BMW i4 and Cadillac LYRIQ?
The BMW i4 is the cheapest at $88,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Cadillac LYRIQ by $1,100.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Cadillac LYRIQ has the most range at 530km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The BMW i4 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 205kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW i4 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Cadillac LYRIQ has the largest boot at 793L.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW i4 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,600kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Cadillac LYRIQ makes the most power at 388kW. The Cadillac LYRIQ is quickest to 100km/h in 5.3s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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