Lyriq a Lesson in Deceptive Marketing & False Advertising
Cadillac heavily marketed several features for the Lyriq that will never be delivered on 2023–2025 models, despite the necessary hardware being installed in many vehicles. These capabilities were promoted during the launch period and relied on by buyers when comparing the Lyriq to competing electric vehicles that already offered similar functionality.
The most significant example is Surround Vision Recorder. Early marketing materials and owner’s manuals described a system that would record video from the vehicle’s multiple exterior cameras, with the ability to save footage to an SD card or USB drive located in the trunk. A security recording feature was also referenced that would automatically activate upon alarm trigger while the vehicle was parked. GM has since confirmed this feature will not be offered on any 2023, 2024, or 2025 Lyriq models. It was only enabled via over-the-air update on 2026 models.
A similar issue involved key card and digital key access. Hardware for NFC key card reading is present on many early vehicles, and the capability was discussed as part of the vehicle’s access system. Full or timely activation was limited or delayed on 2024 models despite the advertising.
The later rollout on 2026 models demonstrates that these capabilities are technically feasible. The decision not to deliver them on earlier model years was likely driven by development and ongoing support costs rather than providing the functionality that influenced purchase decisions against competing vehicles.
This pattern of falsely advertising advanced features, installing supporting hardware, and then failing to enable them on the vehicles sold raises serious concerns about whether buyers received what was promised.
Anyone who purchased a 2023–2025 Lyriq based on these advertised capabilities should contact GM directly to file a formal complaint and also consider consulting with a consumer protections attorney.