The electric vehicle world often emphasizes affordability, but Cadillac’s new Celestiq is taking a different route, focusing on luxury and high-end appeal. This car is built to be a standout for those who are willing to spend a significant amount.
What sets the Celestiq apart is not just its price tag. Unlike many other electric cars, this one will be handcrafted to order. Cadillac claims there are limitless customization options available, so expect to see some very extravagant versions in the future.
If you’re curious about this luxurious EV, here’s what we know so far. The Cadillac Celestiq is a luxury hatchback sedan that incorporates some design elements from previous Cadillac models. However, its long, curved roofline and distinctive rear lighting give it a unique look that stands out among both Cadillac’s lineup and other electric vehicles.
Inside, the Celestiq promises an equally luxurious experience. The car features accent lighting throughout, and its expansive sunroof extends across the top. This sunroof uses electrochromic glass, allowing it to adjust its opacity for additional comfort. Up front, there is a large instrument panel, and the seats are adorned with plush, soft-touch leather.
Cadillac hasn’t released exact pricing details yet, but they’ve indicated the Celestiq will cost over $300,000. This car is clearly targeted at those who desire something unique and have the financial means to get it.
Given the extensive customization options, it’s likely that each Celestiq will vary in price. However, we’ll have to wait for more details to emerge. The Celestiq is expected to be released as a 2024 model, with production beginning in December 2023. Deliveries are likely to start around January 2024. Interested buyers can join the waiting list.
One of the main features of the Celestiq is its customizability. There won’t be a standard color palette to choose from. Instead, customers will work directly with Cadillac’s designers to create their ideal car, which could include any number of colors or finishes. While press images show the car in a deep blue, that’s just one possibility.
While you can customize the exterior color, you can’t change the powertrain. There won’t be options for larger batteries or additional motors as you might find with other electric cars. The Celestiq will utilize General Motors’ Ultium platform, meaning it shares some components with other models like the Hummer EV and Cadillac Lyriq. It will offer around 300 miles of range on a single charge, which is decent but less impressive compared to cheaper luxury EVs like the Lucid Air Grand Touring that can achieve about 500 miles.
Charging capabilities for the Celestiq include up to 200 kilowatts at a DC fast charger, allowing it to gain approximately 78 miles of range in about 10 minutes.
Unlike other electric vehicles that offer multiple trims and configurations, the Celestiq has just one powertrain option: a dual-motor, all-wheel drive setup. Cadillac claims this will provide 600 horsepower, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.8 seconds.
We’ll have to wait to see how it performs on the road and what the driving dynamics will be like. The Celestiq is expected to come packed with features to enhance comfort and convenience. For instance, it will offer four climate zones, allowing each passenger to control their own environment. The electrochromic glass sunroof enhances the interior ambiance.
Drivers will also get a massive 55-inch display for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, similar to the Mercedes Hyperscreen. Rear passengers are not left out, as they’ll have their own 12.6-inch screens for entertainment. Additionally, the car will feature a 38-speaker AKG Studio Reference stereo system, ensuring an immersive audio experience.
However, Cadillac has not confirmed if CarPlay and Android Auto will be available, likely because General Motors is transitioning away from supporting these systems. Hopefully, this will change before the car’s release.
In terms of driver-assist features, the Celestiq will be quite advanced. It will include GM’s new Ultra Cruise feature for hands-free driving in various conditions, as well as standard features like automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning.
Unfortunately, the Cadillac Celestiq will not be eligible for the federal EV tax credit, as its price far exceeds the $55,000 limit for sedans.
While the Celestiq has many exciting features, there are some areas where we feel it falls short. Given its high price, a longer range and faster charging speed would have been welcome, especially when more affordable models like the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 can charge at up to 350 kilowatts. Also, the lack of CarPlay and Android Auto is disappointing, as it means users will have to rely on GM’s own, less impressive infotainment system.