2023 Dodge Hornet vs 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ

The Hornet is introduced as a compact utility vehicle, or CUV. This would seem to suggest that “compact” and “sport” are mutually exclusive (no shade on Dodge; they didn’t coin the term). But the Hornet defies that with its emphasis on power, attitude, and in-crowd fun.

Yes, the Hornet is also notable in that the 2024-model-year hybrid R/T is Dodge’s first electrified performance vehicle. But every automaker has—or will soon have to have—its own first electrified model. That in itself is these days remarkable only internally. However, we would argue that the Hornet represents a gateway with influence far outside the company as well: It creates a previously nonexistent pathway for the type of consumers the Dodge brand targets, who will now be able to take the step toward electrification without sacrificing their street cred.

After a shortened 2023 introduction, the 2024 Lyriq is the first full model year of Cadillac's midsize electric SUV. The Lyriq is the luxury version of the GM Ultium EV platform used in other EV SUVs, including the Chevrolet Blazer EV, Honda Prologue, and Acura ZDX. With ample power, just over 300 miles of range, and a properly upscale interior that finally looks different than a Chevy, the Lyriq is a good contender if you're shopping for a higher-priced, two-row electric SUV. We tested a fully-loaded Lyriq Sport at nearly $80,000.

Verdict: As an EV, the Lyriq is average. As a Cadillac, it’s much better than anything else in the showroom. Traditional brand hallmarks, such as a cavernous back seat and a gentle ride, blend with big screens and significantly improved material quality. But it's still not up to the luxury standard that Cadillac promises.