2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ: First Drive Review – An Electric Icon Reimagined
Cadillac is making a bold move into the electric vehicle market, and the 2025 Escalade IQ is a testament to that ambition. As the brand’s largest all-electric SUV, the Escalade IQ aims to redefine luxury and performance in the EV space. CarBuzz recently had the opportunity for a first drive of the Escalade IQ in San Francisco, California. Here’s what we discovered.
What Is It?
The Escalade IQ is, at its core, an all-electric version of Cadillac’s iconic SUV. While sharing the Escalade name, it rides on the large Ultium architecture, distinguishing it from its gasoline-powered counterpart. This new platform enables the IQ to boast impressive electric range and performance.
Exterior Design: Escalade Meets Lyriq
The Escalade IQ’s exterior design blends the familiar Escalade silhouette with the modern cues of Cadillac’s electric vehicles, particularly the Lyriq. The front end features a unique pattern on the painted grille, and the rear showcases distinctive split taillights. The IQ stands out without straying too far from its traditional roots. It’s a substantial vehicle, measuring 224.3 inches in length with a 136.2-inch wheelbase.
Interior: A Proper Escalade
Inside, the Escalade IQ delivers the luxurious experience expected of the name. It features premium materials throughout the cabin. Depending on the trim level, you can find leatherette or Nouveauluxe leather seating. The interior is highlighted by a massive 55-inch pillar-to-pillar screen that houses the infotainment system and driver information displays. The spacious cabin offers comfortable seating for seven, though the third row is slightly tighter than in the standard Escalade. There is also an optional Executive Rear seat package that significantly increases passenger comfort with features such as massage and a control center in the back.
Cargo Space Comparison
While the Escalade IQ offers ample cargo space, there is a marginal decrease compared to the gas-powered model, likely due to battery packaging. The IQ makes up for this with a front eTrunk.
Infotainment: Big Car, Big Screens
The centerpiece of the Escalade IQ’s interior is its expansive 55-inch display. This screen integrates the digital gauge cluster, infotainment, and a passenger screen that plays media. While visually impressive, the placement of some features, like the turn signal camera, could be improved for usability.
A 21-speaker AKG audio system comes standard, with a 38-speaker setup available on higher trims. Power-opening doors add another layer of convenience.
Powertrain & Driving: Halfway To A V-Series
The Escalade IQ features a dual-motor electric powertrain paired with a 212 kWh battery. In normal mode, the motors generate 680 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque. Velocity Max mode boosts output to 750 hp and 785 lb-ft. Cadillac claims a 0-60 mph time under 5 seconds, and we recorded a time of 4.85 seconds. The standard Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 and Adaptive Air Ride Suspension provided a smooth and controlled ride. Four-wheel steering enhances agility and maneuverability, and Arrival Mode adds a playful touch with its crab-walking capability.
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Powertrain
Verdict & Pricing: Impressive But Pricey
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ blends impressive specs from other GM EVs with the renowned Escalade nameplate. With a class-leading 460-mile range, the Escalade IQ stands out in the electric SUV segment. However, this comes at a considerable price. The base Luxury 1 trim starts at $127,700. Cadillac expects many buyers to opt for the Luxury 2 or Sport 2 trims, costing around $150,000. While significantly more expensive than the gasoline-powered Escalade, the IQ offers superior power and, in some configurations, a compelling value proposition compared to the Escalade-V. Cadillac has created a compelling EV offering. The Escalade IQ is poised to make a splash in the growing electric SUV market.
