Cadillac Aims to Bring Escalade IQ to Australia
The Cadillac Escalade IQ, an all-electric SUV, could soon be available in Australia if the brand’s local leaders get their way. Jess Bala, Managing Director of General Motors Australia, expressed her strong interest in importing the Escalade IQ, which carries a starting price of $US130,000 (approximately $AU200,000), to join the Optiq, Lyriq, and Vistiq electric SUVs.
Bala remarked, “We’re constantly looking at what the right portfolio is to bring here to Australia and New Zealand.” She acknowledged challenges specific to the Escalade IQ’s introduction but noted that they are closely collaborating with the team in the U.S. to assess feasibility. “I would love to have that vehicle here. It’s one of my personal favourites, so we’re going to keep pushing on that one, but right now it is not currently part of the plan.”
The Escalade IQ measures 5697mm in length, 2389mm in width, and 1934mm in height, with a 3460mm wheelbase. These dimensions exceed those of the seven-seat Cadillac Vistiq, which is slated to become the largest electric SUV sold in Australia when it arrives in 2026.
The Escalade IQ boasts a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, producing 505kW and 834Nm, or up to 560kW and 1064Nm in ‘Velocity Max’ mode. It is powered by a 200kWh battery pack for an estimated 740-kilometer driving range. Acceleration from 0-97km/h is achieved in less than five seconds in Velocity Max mode and towing capacity ranges between 3.4 and 3.6 tonnes in the US.
Available features include a 55-inch combined display, second-row captain’s chairs with various comfort features, a 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system, 24-inch alloy wheels, and Super Cruise hands-free highway driving support.
Cadillac’s global vice-president, John Roth, cited “technical certifications and other aspects” as factors currently restricting the Escalade IQ from launching in right-hand drive markets like Australia. Roth stated, “Everything has to be done in the right order for things to come together appropriately.”
The Escalade IQ utilizes General Motors’ Ultium electric-car architecture, which is also employed in the Cadillac Optiq, Lyriq, and Vistiq. GM is also producing electric versions of the Chevrolet Silverado ute and GMC Hummer off-roader based on this platform. However, these models are not currently planned for sale in right-hand drive markets.
Roth added that Cadillac is focused on building a strong presence in the marketplace with its current electric offerings and sees opportunities to develop the brand in Australia and New Zealand, potentially opening doors for future models.
