AUTO

An Icon Goes All-Electric: Introducing the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ

February 3, 2024

Built on brand-new electric architecture, the Escalade IQ wants to redefine how you look at EVs
It can drive diagonally thanks to Cadillac’s Four-Wheel Steer
Safety is paramount with a range of driver-assist features
Estimated 450-mile range
Starting price of $130,000

Cadillac has made its long-awaited entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the unveiling of the 2025 Escalade IQ. This first-ever all-electric full-size SUV from Cadillac redefines luxury, combining an impressive 450-mile range with heaps of technology and a sleek design.

While it’s high-tech, the Escalade IQ still looks like the large SUVs we know and love from Cadillac. The chunky exterior has presence but the way the headlamps follow the Escalade IQ’s curves and the roofline sweeps back both add an air of elegance.

Inside, the first thing you’ll notice is the expansive screen that runs the length of the dashboard to not only offer driver information but also to serve passengers. You’ll also get Super Cruise® driver assistance technology, vehicle-to-home bidirectional charging with GM Energy’s Ultium Home products, and a wide range of optional luxury features that make this a stand-out EV.

John Roth, vice president of Global Cadillac, expressed the significance of this launch: “Escalade IQ raises the standard just as the original Escalade redefined luxury a quarter-century ago. This reimagining of an icon marks the next step in Cadillac’s all-electric future.”

The important info:

Estimated 450-mile range
Up to 750-horsepower with the Velocity Max feature
0-60 mph in under five seconds
Up to 8,000 lbs of estimated towing capacity
Pricing starts from $130,000

Performance Meets Innovation

Built on GM’s Ultium Platform, the Escalade IQ is the most maneuverable Escalade ever. With Four-Wheel Steer, the turning circle is only 39.4 feet (12 meters), making it easy to move despite its grand size — great news if you regularly navigate tight parking lots or tow a trailer. There’s also an available Arrival Mode that allows the Escalade IQ to move diagonally (yes, you read that right). This makes it incredibly easy to pull out of tight roadside parking spots — or if you just want to show off.

Its EV-specific architecture not only allows for a bold design and spacious interior but also delivers strong performance with independent front and rear suspension and an eAWD system. This means there are a ton of cool options such as Low Ride Mode, which allows you to drive the Escalade IQ at low speeds with the suspension fully lowered.

Jamie Brewer, executive chief engineer of the Escalade IQ, emphasized: “The EV-specific architecture allows us to deliver a driving experience aligned with Cadillac’s philosophy of isolated precision — quiet, smooth, and effortless with a strong connection to the road for an engaging experience.”

Design That Makes a Statement

Cadillac’s commitment to bold design shines through in the Escalade IQ. The sleeker profile, lower interior floor, and advanced lighting create a dynamic yet familiar presence. “It’s such attention to detail that makes it more expressive,” said Jawook Koo, design manager of Cadillac Exteriors.

The interior of the Escalade IQ is a testament to Cadillac’s vision of luxury. Craig Sass, design manager of Cadillac Interiors, describes it as “an immersive interior experience that elevates the bar for the future of luxury transportation.” With available features such as a panoramic fixed glass roof, rear screens, and a 40-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system, the interior is nothing short of luxurious.

Safety and Connectivity

The Escalade IQ comes standard with Super Cruise, GM’s hands-free driver assistance technology. Alongside this, it features a suite of active safety and driver assistance technologies, ensuring a safe and connected driving experience.

Some of the highlights include:

Super Cruise can maintain a selected following gap from a vehicle ahead
Super Cruise can perform both driver and system-initiated lane changes
Driver attention monitoring while using Super Cruise mode
Blind zone steering assist
Intersection automatic emergency braking
HD surround vision
Enhanced automatic parking assist
Front pedestrian and cyclist braking

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ feels like a leap into a new realm of luxury. This all-electric SUV seamlessly blends the classic Escalade presence with the latest technology for a driving experience that’s as effortless as it is fun. With an estimated 450-mile range, up to 750 horsepower, and a host of advanced features, the Escalade IQ is poised to redefine what a luxury SUV can be.