Cadillac has unveiled the first-ever all-electric 2025 ESCALADE IQ, a ground-breaking reimagination of the iconic full-size luxury SUV. The ESCALADE IQ is Cadillac’s flagship electric SUV. This SUV model combines modern styling, high-quality craftsmanship, and advanced technology for an enhanced luxury driving experience. It represents a significant step forward by incorporating the benefits of electric vehicle technology into the brand’s unique design language. The dedicated EV architecture of the SUV allows for a more efficient and sustainable driving experience.
Exterior Design
The Escalade IQ is a new model that retains the commanding road presence of its predecessors. The vehicle has a more aerodynamic design due to its dedicated Ultium EV architecture. Its exterior design features a long hood line, a faster sloping roofline, and wheels pushed outward to the corners, resulting in a planted stance. Despite these changes, the Escalade still maintains its recognizable appearance.
However, this is an Escalade like no other. The new Escalade boasts a host of aerodynamic enhancements and details, including integrated rear taillight spoiler, smooth underbody, and active grille shutters. These contribute to an estimated 15% lower coefficient of drag than previous Escalade generations. This aerodynamic evolution pays dividends in improved overall range.
The design team sweated every detail, beautifully sculpting surfaces to achieve a striking balance of creased lines and curved muscularity. The flush side glass and available large panoramic roof create a seamless, flowing aesthetic. Distinctive daytime running light signatures and choreographed lighting sequences heighten the ESCALADE IQ’s dramatic presence.
Interior and Cargo Space
As breathtaking as the exterior, the ESCALADE IQ’s interior translates architectural inspiration and ultra-premium furnishing cues into a masterclass of modern luxury. The cabin is open, airy and spacious, taking full advantage of the packaging benefits afforded by the dedicated EV platform.
The centerpiece of the system is a stunning 55-inch curved LED display that stretches from one pillar to another. It is powered by a cutting-edge Snapdragon® Cockpit Platform, creating a vibrant and customizable digital experience for the driver’s view. An available Executive Second-Row Seating package coddles passengers with sumptuous massaging seats, power rear footrests, and personal 12.6-inch entertainment screens.
A full panoramic fixed glass roof soaks the cabin with natural light. Tailoring opportunities abound with expressive color combinations and contrasting trim finishes across four distinct interior themes.
Cargo versatility is equally impressive, with up to 119.2 cu.ft. of rear storage when both rows are folded. The ESCALADE IQ maximizes its EV packaging with a generous 12 cu.ft. front trunk (“eTrunk”) ideal for storing cargo away from the cabin.
Battery and Range
Underpinning the ESCALADE IQ is GM’s cutting-edge Ultium Platform and equally advanced Ultium battery technology. The battery system consists of 24 modules with over 200 kWh of energy storage capacity utilizing lithium-ion pouch cells.
This state-of-the-art battery enables an exceptional Cadillac-estimated range of 450 miles on a full charge. Just as impressively, it supports 800V DC fast charging – allowing the ESCALADE IQ to gain up to 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes when connected to a DC fast charger.
Performance and Driving
While range and efficiency were priorities, the ESCALADE IQ absolutely delivers on Cadillac’s promise of exhilarating performance. Dual front and rear electric drive units produce astonishing output – up to 750 hp and 785 lb-ft of torque when the driver engages the Velocity Max mode. This allows for a blistering 0-60 mph time of under 5 seconds.
The ESCALADE IQ has advanced chassis technologies that include an independent air suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, Four-Wheel Steer, and selectable drive modes. These features make it agile and engaging for the driver, despite its larger size. Further enhancing the experience are exclusive EV features like One-Pedal Driving and advanced regenerative braking.
The ESCALADE IQ can even trailer up to an 8,000 pound load when properly equipped – retaining its inherent SUV capability.
Advanced Tech and Safety
The ESCALADE IQ boasts an impressive array of advanced technologies, which makes it a true flagship vehicle. The vehicle features Super Cruise, which is the first true hands-free driver assistance system in the industry. This system comes as standard equipment and is equipped with advanced sensors and GPS mapping. Super Cruise enables hands-free operation on over 400,000 miles of compatible roads across the US and Canada.
Furthermore, the ESCALADE IQ comes with a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies. These include Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, and Front Pedestrian/Bicyclist Braking.
The vehicle’s advanced electrical architecture enables cutting-edge features like bidirectional Vehicle-to-Home charging capability using GM Energy’s Ultium Home products. Moreover, owners can even utilize their ESCALADE IQ’s battery pack to provide backup power to their home during power outages.
As for infotainment, the ESCALADE IQ features a next-gen system with Google Built-In, providing an industry-leading connected experience. AKG offers immersive audio that enhances the overall experience, making it a good option for those who value advanced technology.
Pricing
As Cadillac’s flagship electric SUV, the 2025 ESCALADE IQ has a premium pricing position. Production begins next summer with an MSRP starting around $130,000, including destination charges.
The ESCALADE IQ comes well-equipped standard, with additional options and packages available. It will be assembled at GM’s Factory ZERO plant in Detroit.
Notable Standard and Optional Features
Even the base ESCALADE IQ comes lavishly equipped with an array of premium standard features:
- Super Cruise Hands-Free Driver Assistance System
- Surround Vision 360 Camera
- Front Pedestrian/Bicyclist Braking
- Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking
- 19-Speaker AKG Studio Audio System
Available options and packages take the luxury and technology experience even further:
- Executive Second-Row Seating Package with rear command center, massage, power footrests
- Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof
- Power Open/Close Exterior Door Entry System
- 36 or 40-Speaker AKG Studio Reference Audio (depending on trim)
- Google Built-In Infotainment System with Google Assistant
- Digital Key for Smartphone
Preliminary Specifications
| 2025 Cadillac ESCALADE IQ | |
| Estimated Range | 450 miles |
| Power | Up to 750 hp |
| Passenger Capacity | Uo to seven |
| Cargo Capacity | 119.2 cu. ft. (second and third rows folded) |