Cadillac Escalade IQ: A Deep Dive into the Electric SUV
Cadillac has entered the electric vehicle (EV) arena with the 2025 Escalade IQ, a fully electric version of its iconic luxury SUV. But how does this all-electric addition to the Escalade lineup measure up to its gas-powered counterpart and other electric luxury SUVs?
Pricing: A Premium Proposition
One of the first questions on everyone’s mind is, “How much will it cost?” The answer: quite a bit.
Starting prices for the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ models are as follows (including an eye-watering $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
Compared to others in the electric luxury SUV market, the Escalade IQ commands a high price point. The 2025 Lucid Gravity Grand Touring, for example, has a starting price of $96,550—over $30,000 less than the base Escalade IQ. Even when fully loaded with optional features, the Lucid remains more affordable than the entry-level Cadillac. The Mercedes-EQ EQS SUV also undercuts the Escalade IQ at a base price of $106,400, though it can be optioned to match or exceed Cadillac’s pricing, especially with the Maybach trim, beginning at $181,050.
Even considering Cadillac’s own internal lineup, the Escalade IQ’s price is higher than the gas-powered Escalade, where the least expensive rear-wheel-drive model starts at $90,095. When you consider that a fully loaded, gas-powered 2025 Escalade can top $144,000 (without including the extended-length ESV version), and that Cadillac seems to sell a lot of them, perhaps the Escalade IQ’s pricing structure won’t be a significant barrier for the luxury buyers it is intended to attract.
Driving Experience: Big, but Agile
After putting some time behind the wheel, it’s clear that GM continues to excel at creating massive electric SUVs that behave with surprising sprightliness. The Escalade IQ is their newest and perhaps best example of this. Sharing its platform with the GMC Hummer EV Pickup and SUV, and the GMC Sierra EV and Chevrolet Silverado EV pickup trucks, the Escalade IQ benefits from advanced engineering.
Several features contribute to the Escalade IQ’s impressive handling for its size. Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 shock absorbers, adjustable-height air springs, and a focus on refinement over off-road capability distinguish the vehicle. This results in exceptional body control and less of the tipping or rocking sensations of some other large SUVs.
The substantial battery pack’s low center of gravity, combined with the Magnetic Ride Control system and standard four-wheel steering, provides a remarkable level of comfort, control, and sophistication and really enhances the driving experience. The four-wheel steering, with up to 10 degrees of rear steering, enables an impressive 39.4-foot turning circle, slightly larger than that of the Chevrolet Equinox EV. This feature makes navigating urban environments easier and also allows for Arrival Mode (known as CrabWalk in the GMC Hummer), where all four wheels turn in the same direction, allowing for diagonal movement.
Dynamically, the Escalade IQ performs admirably, offering outstanding steering feel and feedback. Acceleration is suitably quick, with a maximum output of 750 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque when the Velocity Max button is engaged, or 680 hp and 615 pound-feet of torque during normal operation. Highway cruising is remarkably smooth, although road noise can be noticeable on imperfect pavement due to the 24-inch wheels and tires.
Range and Charging: Impressive Numbers
Equipped with a 24-module, 800-volt battery pack with at least 200 kWh capacity (Cadillac is reluctant to reveal the exact capacity), the Escalade IQ boasts an estimated driving range of 460 miles. This bests the Lucid Gravity by 10 miles. Cadillac claims that it can add 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes using a 350-kilowatt DC fast charger, assuming you can find one that delivers on its promise.
Cool Tech
Unfortunately, additional details on the Escalade IQ’s tech features were unavailable at the time of this review.
Conclusion
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ represents a bold step into the electric future for a flagship vehicle. While its high price tag may be a barrier for some and its potential is still yet to be explored fully, the Escalade IQ delivers a premium driving experience, impressive range, and innovative technology that is sure to impress. It’s a strong contender in the electric luxury SUV segment, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and style that’s distinctly Cadillac.
