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The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ is a bold new entry in Cadillac’s range. It blends the classic Escalade look with the latest electric vehicle (EV) tech. As part of Cadillac’s move toward an electrified future, the Escalade IQ stands out as a bold move to cater to the growing EV market. Cadillac first planned to go fully electric. Now, the brand has picked a balanced approach, with both gasoline and electric models available. This move looks smart because EV adoption in North America is slower than expected. This is due to issues like infrastructure, consumer preferences, and concerns about range.

Cadillac now sells traditional gas-powered Escalades, including the longer ESV version. They also offer the new Escalade IQ, with an extended-length IQL variant coming soon. The question is: Can an electric Escalade really take the place of the strong V-8 engine that has defined this luxury SUV for years? The answer lies in understanding its new identity and target audience.

A Price Tag That Commands Attention

The Escalade IQ is undoubtedly positioned as a premium offering, and its price reflects that. While the GMC Hummer EV SUV previously turned heads with its hefty price tag, the Escalade IQ takes it to another level. The starting prices for the various 2025 Escalade IQ trim levels are as follows (all prices include a $2,290 destination fee):

• Escalade IQ Luxury 1: $129,990
• Escalade IQ Sport 1: $130,490
• Escalade IQ Luxury 2: $149,990
• Escalade IQ Sport 2: $150,490

These numbers place the Escalade IQ significantly above other electric luxury SUVs in its class. For instance, the 2025 Lucid Gravity Grand Touring starts at $96,550, making it over $30,000 less than a base Escalade IQ. Even a fully optioned Lucid Gravity still falls below the entry-level Escalade IQ’s price. The Mercedes-EQ EQS SUV starts at $106,400. It can go up in price, especially for the Maybach trim, which costs $181,050.

Even when compared to Cadillac’s own gas-powered Escalade lineup, the Escalade IQ comes at a premium. A standard rear-wheel-drive gas-powered Escalade starts at $90,095, while the four-wheel-drive variant adds $3,000 to the base price. Fully loaded gasoline Escalades can exceed $144,000—not even counting the ESV extended-length version. Cadillac sells many high-end SUVs, even with steep prices. This shows that luxury buyers might pay extra for the electric version too.

Driving Experience: Refinement Meets Power

Cadillac has done an impressive job of making the massive Escalade IQ feel surprisingly agile and composed. This electric SUV is surprisingly nimble, despite its large size and weight. This agility comes from smart engineering taken from GM’s great range of electric trucks and SUVs. The Escalade IQ shares a platform with the GMC Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, GMC Sierra EV, and Chevrolet Silverado EV. It benefits from GM’s top EV technology.

The Escalade IQ’s ride comfort and handling are enhanced by several key features:

• Magnetic Ride Control 4.0: This adaptive suspension system adjusts the SUV’s ride quality in real-time. It ensures a smooth and steady drive.
• Air Springs: The adjustable air suspension boosts comfort. It also lets you change ground clearance, which is perfect for various driving situations.
• Four-Wheel Steering: This feature stands out. It allows the rear wheels to move up to 10 degrees, which greatly boosts maneuverability. The Escalade IQ has a tight turning circle of 39.4 feet. That’s just a bit over a foot and a half larger than the Chevrolet Equinox EV. This makes it surprisingly easy to handle in the city.

Four-wheel steering helps with cornering and parking. It also allows Cadillac’s “Arrival Mode.”” Like the Hummer EV’s “CrabWalk,” this feature lets the vehicle move diagonally. It’s more of a party trick than a useful tool, but it’s still great for impressing friends and neighbors.

Power and Performance

The Escalade IQ is no slouch when it comes to performance. The Escalade IQ offers an exciting boost of 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque. Just press the red “Velocity Max” button on the steering wheel for an adrenaline rush. In its standard mode, it still packs an impressive 680 hp and 615 lb-ft of torque. This powerful blend keeps the Escalade IQ’s strong presence and performance that the Escalade name is known for.

On the highway, the Escalade IQ excels in comfort and quietness. Its strong electric drivetrain provides smooth, instant torque. Highway cruising is quiet, but only if the road surface is good. On rough roads, the big 24-inch wheels might send some tire noise into the cabin. This is a common issue for luxury EVs with large rims.

Battery, Range, and Charging

Powering the Escalade IQ is a 24-module, 800-volt battery pack with a capacity exceeding 200 kWh. Cadillac hasn’t revealed the exact battery size. However, it’s clear that this SUV can go an impressive 460 miles on a full charge. This range outpaces key competitors, including the Lucid Gravity, which offers 450 miles of range.

Charging performance is equally notable. The Escalade IQ supports 350-kilowatt DC fast charging. It can add 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes. This is if you find a charger that delivers peak power. The Escalade IQ has rapid charging. This makes it easy for road trips and long distances. Even though fast-charging infrastructure is still growing, this feature adds great convenience.

Exploring the Tech Marvel of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ: A Blend of Innovation and Sophistication

When you invest in a luxury SUV like the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ, you expect high-end technology and premium features to match the price. The Escalade IQ has great tech features, but it also has some surprises—both good and bad—that buyers should be aware of.

A Stunning Yet Confounding Display System

One of the most eye-catching features of the Escalade IQ’s cabin is its large 55-inch curved display. It runs across the entire dashboard. This sleek screen blends digital gauges and infotainment controls. It also features visual enhancements and quality speakers that boost the look.

At first glance, this large screen seems like the future of car design. However, the interface could be more practical. The driver’s display, boasting an impressive 8K resolution, is unfortunately hindered by poor layout choices. You might expect a clear and easy-to-read gauge cluster, but Cadillac’s “Gauges” mode falls short. It features a small speedometer awkwardly placed at the bottom of the screen.

Switching to “Google Maps” mode makes the navigation map bigger on the driver’s display. But the thick, round steering wheel hides a big part of the screen. This issue is hard to overlook. Cadillac could have gained a lot by using a squared-off “squircle” steering wheel. This design, seen in GM’s Chevrolet Corvette and Lincoln’s Navigator, boosts the visibility of digital displays.

The center touchscreen is bright and large. However, its curved shape and far location make it hard to reach comfortably. Cadillac provides a rotary controller and touch-sensitive buttons as options. However, this setup feels awkward and unintuitive, much like using a laptop’s trackpad while driving. The previous Escalade’s infotainment layout was far superior, and the new design feels like a step backward in functionality.

Touch-Sensitive Overload

Cadillac has embraced touch-sensitive controls. They removed traditional buttons and replaced them with sleek touch panels. This change looks modern, but it can be frustrating to use. Even the steering wheel has touch-sensitive controls. They seem modern, but they can be finicky and unresponsive. This is puzzling, especially for a vehicle with luxurious goals. Without tactile buttons, drivers may struggle with menus. Simple dials and switches would be much easier to use.

You can use a second touchscreen on the center console. It lets you control the climate, adjust settings, and open the Escalade IQ’s doors automatically. This tech-focused approach might attract some people. However, those who like the feel of physical controls may find the Escalade IQ’s interface frustrating.

Style vs. Substance in Interior Materials

Visually, the Escalade IQ’s interior is a knockout. Cadillac has gone bold with vibrant color schemes, textured trims, and sleek metal speaker grilles. But looks can be misleading. When you tap or touch many of these surfaces, they feel hollow and plastic-like. They don’t have a premium feel at all. This seems like a way to cut costs. It will likely help balance the heavy battery and keep the Escalade IQ’s weight manageable. This sadly lowers the luxury feel, especially next to models like the GMC Sierra Denali EV, which has a more solid and premium cabin.

Spacious but Not Perfect

The Escalade IQ is about a foot longer than the gas-powered Escalade, but the interior space falls short of what you’d expect. This is mainly because of the large battery pack located under the floor.

In the front, comfort reigns supreme. The seats are soft and well-padded. They have smart features, like putting seat adjustment controls on the door panels. This design saves important space. The commanding driving position enhances visibility, further amplifying the sense of luxury.

The second row, however, feels unexpectedly cramped, even with the available sliding captain’s chairs pushed fully back. Legroom is comfortable but not as generous as in a traditional Escalade. This can make long trips less enjoyable for taller passengers. The third row is best for kids or shorter people. Headroom is tight, seating feels cramped, and the overall vibe is dark and less inviting.

In terms of cargo space, the Escalade IQ redeems itself. The second and third-row seats fold flat, unlocking a cavernous 119.2 cubic feet of cargo volume. Additionally, the front “eTrunk” (also known as a frunk) offers 12.2 cubic feet of extra storage — perfect for luggage, backpacks, or groceries. The high liftover height from the battery can make loading heavy items tricky. However, the amount of space available is really impressive.

Should You Buy the Cadillac Escalade IQ?

If you’re considering an electric luxury SUV, the Escalade IQ enters the market as a compelling option — though it’s not without its quirks. Cadillac has packed this EV with cutting-edge tech, great range, and a smooth ride. However, transitioning traditional Escalade buyers into EV territory may require some convincing.

The Escalade has always represented bold American luxury. It’s a moving symbol of power and prestige. The Escalade IQ goes a different way. It’s quieter, more refined, and full of technology instead of just raw power and V-8 noise.

This change may appeal to luxury buyers who want a high-tech, stylish vehicle. It combines classic design with modern efficiency. If Cadillac can show this change as a sign of sophistication, the IQ may attract buyers who want electric vehicles. This way, they won’t stray from the Escalade’s bold legacy.

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FAQ: Cadillac Escalade IQ

Conclusion

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ is a bold step into the electric future for this iconic American luxury SUV. It has a high price, but it offers great range, advanced technology, and a smooth driving experience. Cadillac has positioned the Escalade IQ as a classy choice over the gas-powered Escalade. It attracts buyers looking for innovation and exclusivity. Some interior design choices might not be very user-friendly. But the IQ offers a great overall package for those ready to embrace the next evolution of luxury SUVs. If Cadillac tells its loyal customers about this change, the Escalade IQ could be a big contender in the premium electric vehicle market.