Cadillac is stepping into the future of luxury SUVs with the all-electric Escalade IQL. This battery-powered behemoth is one of the longest production cars ever made, stretching an impressive 228.4 inches (just over 19 feet) – 1.4 inches longer than the gas-powered Escalade ESV.
A New Definition of Spacious
The IQL provides three rows of seating and an expansive cargo area. Passengers in the second row can enjoy the Executive Second Row package, which adds personal 12.6-inch screens, along with massaging, heating, and cooling functions. The package incorporates headrest speakers for an immersive audio experience. The third row benefits from an added four inches of legroom and an inch of headroom. The vehicle is designed to accommodate seven occupants, or fewer if the third-row seats are folded down for added storage.
Performance Meets Efficiency
Under the hood, the IQL packs a punch. It boasts 750 horsepower generated by two electric motors, enabling a zero-to-60 mph time of just 4.7 seconds. Cadillac hasn’t disclosed the exact weight, but it’s likely to be in excess of four tons, comparable to the GMC Hummer EV. The IQL also boasts a range of up to 460 miles on a full charge.
The Escalade IQL positions itself in a market segment occupied by vehicles such as the Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB and the Mercedes-Maybach Pullman. It also surpasses key rivals such as the Jeep Grand Wagoneer L and the Lincoln Navigator L.
A Legacy of Luxury
Cadillac introduced the original Escalade in 1998 in response to the Lincoln Navigator, which competed in a then-nascent segment: full-size luxury SUVs. The Escalade model has since become a household name, particularly the second generation released in 2001, which was a staple in hip-hop, music videos, movies, and television shows like The Sopranos. Cadillac is hoping the fifth-generation Escalade will build on that success with the addition of the IQL.
Production of the Escalade IQL is slated to begin later this year in Detroit. The starting price will be $132,695, and it will arrive as a 2026 model year car.
