Who are we to judge the needs of those with a penchant for luxury electric vehicles? Cadillac seems to think there’s a market, as they introduce the Escalade IQL, a stretched version of their all-electric Escalade IQ. Is a longer Escalade an improvement over its gas-guzzling predecessors? Let’s take a look.
Objectively, the Escalade IQL is a handsome vehicle. The added length, despite its size, somehow makes it look even more streamlined. The extra $40,000 worth of increased length is primarily added to the rear, which provides more passenger space in the third row and a larger cargo area.
The third row gets a significant boost in comfort, with over four inches of additional legroom (36.7″ vs. 32.3″) and an extra inch of headroom (38.2″ vs. 37.2″). Cadillac also highlights the “eTrunk” compartment under the hood, offering an additional 12.2 cubic feet of secure storage, identical to the Escalade IQ.
As for the specifications, the Escalade IQL utilizes GM’s Ultium 205kWh battery, which is also found in the Escalade IQ, GMC Hummer/Sierra, and Chevy Silverado. The battery delivers a claimed range of 460 miles. Using a 350kW charger, the vehicle can add up to 116 miles of range in just 10 minutes. The 800V charging curve tapers off slightly from there, but it’s still impressive. Key performance figures include:
- 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque (with driver-selectable Velocity Max10 estimate)
- 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds (with driver-selectable Velocity Max10, Cadillac estimate)
- A Cadillac-estimated maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs.
The ride and handling are enhanced Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 and the Air Ride Adaptive suspension. Cadillac emphasizes its “Isolated Precision” ride and handling, characterized by quiet, smooth operation with a strong connection to the road. Adding to the performance are independent front and rear suspensions as well as 24-inch wheels paired with 35-inch tires
Standard features include a suite of active safety and driver assistance systems, including Super Cruise, GM’s hands-free driver assistance technology (with three years of OnStar connected service) and a curved 55-inch total diagonal display for infotainment, voice control, navigation, and an app store.
Other standout features include:
- Seating for up to seven passengers, with a power-folding third row
- A standard AKG 4 Studio 21-speaker audio system, upgradable to a 38-speaker system
- Standard Super Cruise5 driver assistance technology on all trims (3 years OnStar Super Cruise plan6)
- Available 5G Wi-Fi® hotspot capability7 connected by OnStar, along with a comprehensive suite of OnStar safety
- Vehicle-to-home (V2H) bidirectional charging capabilities
The Escalade IQL is a showcase of luxury and technology. The IQL will debut in four trims – Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury, and Premium Sport with a starting MSRP of $132,695. Production is scheduled to begin in mid-2025 at General Motors’ Factory ZERO plant in Detroit and will include global markets, like the U.S. and Canada.
While the high price could purchase several smaller EVs, or several PHEVs, the Escalade IQL offers a premium experience, especially for shoppers in the market for a large luxury SUV. With its V2L capability the batteries could potentially support a home for weeks in an emergency. For those who want a large luxurious EV, the Escalade IQL could be the answer.
