The Escalade is going electric. Cadillac has unveiled the electric version of its prominent, luxurious SUV, and it truly lives up to the Escalade name. This new electric model is set to be one of the most luxurious electric SUVs on the market, with a matching price tag.
Wondering what the Escalade IQ will offer? Here’s a breakdown of everything we know so far about the Cadillac Escalade IQ.
The design of the Escalade has always been iconic, and the electric version is getting a major update. The new Escalade features a large faux grille in the front, vertical headlights along the sides, and a bold Cadillac emblem in the center.
The EV Escalade is actually larger than the regular version, though it might not look it at first glance. The SUV measures 224.3 inches in length and 85.3 inches in width, riding on massive 24-inch wheels.
At the rear, the SUV features a more curved design compared to the current model, giving it a sportier look. This aesthetic is a welcome change, making the electric Escalade look more dynamic.
Just like its gas-powered counterpart, the Escalade IQ will be quite pricey, which is expected for a luxury vehicle.
The starting price for the Escalade IQ is around $130,000, making it one of the most expensive electric SUVs on the market. There will be multiple models available, each with different features and pricing.
While we don’t have an exact release date, we know the Cadillac Escalade IQ will be part of the 2025 model year and will start production in summer 2024 in Michigan. It’s expected to be available for purchase in the fourth quarter of 2024. However, depending on supply chain conditions, it might be challenging to get one right away.
Cadillac has not yet announced the specific models of the Escalade IQ, but it’s likely that the base model won’t offer the full 450-mile range or the sub-5-second 0-to-60 acceleration speed being advertised. Those features will likely come at an additional cost.
We do have some insight into the color options. While most choices are variations of white, gray, and black, there are also a few blues and some striking deep reds available.
The Escalade IQ won’t be a slacker in terms of performance. Built on General Motors’ Ultium battery platform, it’s expected to offer a 450-mile range, putting it ahead of most electric cars on the market, except for the Lucid Air. This bodes well for other future Ultium-based electric vehicles.
The SUV will come with an NACS connector and will offer fast charging capabilities, adding 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes.
The Escalade IQ focuses on luxury rather than outright speed but still performs well for its size. Cadillac claims it can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds, which is impressive for such a large vehicle.
Additionally, the Escalade IQ might be more agile than you’d expect. Cadillac says it will offer rear-wheel steering as standard, which helps with a tighter turning circle and better stability. It can also move diagonally out of parking spaces.
Inside, the tech features are especially noteworthy. The front of the car boasts a massive 55-inch display that spans across the dashboard, similar to the Mercedes EQS Hyperscreen. Although it won’t support CarPlay or Android Auto, it will use Android Automotive for access to Google apps and services.
The optional Executive Second Row includes impressive features as well. You can get 12.6-inch rear headrest monitors for private viewing, fold-out tray tables, and reclining seats for the second-row passengers.
Overall, the Escalade IQ promises a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers.
Due to its high price, the Cadillac Escalade IQ won’t qualify for the federal tax credit for electric vehicles, which caps at $80,000.
As far as Escalades go, the Escalade IQ seems to offer everything one might want. It boasts a long range, fast charging, and respectable performance. Hopefully, the base model will still offer a robust range of at least 350 miles.