2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ: Electrifying the Future of SUVs with Unparalleled Power

The Cadillac Escalade has gained fame as a luxurious vehicle favored by the affluent. It is now undergoing a transformation in line with its parent company General Motors’ electric direction and naming pattern, becoming the newly designed all-electric Escalade IQ. This follows the introduction of the Cadillac Lyriq, the brand’s first electric vehicle (EV), and the Cadillac Celestiq, its ultra-luxury flagship EV.

The IQ variant maintains a similar appearance to the original Escalade, which dates back to the early 2000s, but with the adoption of electric power. The 2025 version is equipped with a battery that offers a range of up to 450 miles. Its new design features a wider stance and a lower, flatter floor in order to accommodate the battery. Additionally, it has a sloping roof and longer hood, giving it a slightly more athletic look compared to the traditional Escalade.

Similar to the GMC Hummer EV, the Escalade IQ takes a gas-guzzling vehicle and transforms it into a zero-emissions machine. However, specifics about battery efficiency remain undisclosed, with Cadillac instead focusing on promoting its design and technology. The most notable feature is the 55-inch pillar-to-pillar LED display located at the front.

The Escalade IQ will be built on the same 24-module Ultium battery platform as other GM EVs, such as the Hummer EV and Lyriq, but with an energy capacity of 200 kWh. Given its large size, the vehicle may require frequent visits to the charging station. The Hummer EV consumes 1.8 kWh per mile and achieves only 47 MPGe, while the smaller Lyriq consumes 3.8 kWh and achieves 105 MPGe. Cadillac anticipates that the IQ will support DC fast charging on an 800-volt system, allowing for 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes.

Big SUV, Big Specs

The Escalade IQ is expected to deliver impressive performance. Its dual-motor eAWD system will provide up to 750 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. Cadillac estimates a towing capacity of 8,000 pounds, which is slightly lower than the original gas-powered model’s 8,200-pound capacity.

These specifications are similar to the V performance option available for the gas version. The V8 and six-cylinder diesel engines offer 420 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, respectively. The V, equipped with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, delivers up to 682 horsepower. However, unlike the IQ, the V is not known for providing a quiet ride.

The SUV will feature independent front and rear suspension, as well as adaptive suspension that can adjust the vehicle’s height, just like its gas-powered counterpart. It includes a Low Ride Mode for a smoother ride at low speeds, and similar to the Hummer EV’s Crab Walk Mode, the Escalade IQ will introduce Cadillac Arrival Mode for diagonal maneuvers. Furthermore, GM claims that the IQ is the most aerodynamic full-size SUV, thanks to its slimmer profile and reduced drag.

In terms of cargo space, Cadillac refers to the front trunk as the “eTrunk” and highlights its capacity of 12 cubic feet. Details regarding the rear hatch cargo space have not been disclosed yet.

Luxury & Sport

The IQ will be offered in two trim levels: Luxury and Sport. The Sport variant will feature dark metal finishes, while the Luxury variant will have brushed aluminum accents. Both can be customized with two-tone paint and a black roof. There will be a total of six body colors available.

Additional interior features include a large curved front display with built-in Google functionality for apps like Maps for navigation. Second-row screens are available, and the standard audio system is a 19-speaker AKG Studio system.

One of the key tech features will be GM’s hands-free Super Cruise system, which will come standard for three years. The IQ will also incorporate Ultra Cruise, the next-generation advanced driving system, with more details to be revealed soon. Standard advanced safety features include Blind Zone Steering Assist and Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking.

The Escalade IQ will join other GM EVs on the Ultium platform, allowing for vehicle-to-home or bidirectional charging capabilities. This means that the car can serve as a power source during emergencies. By 2026, all Ultium vehicles, including the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST, 2024 GMC Sierra EV Denali Edition 1, 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, and 2024 Cadillac Lyriq, will offer this feature.

When Will the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Be Available? How Much Will It Cost?

The IQ is set to start production for the 2025 model year at GM’s Factory Zero Detroit Hamtramck plant in Michigan next summer.

Pricing is expected to start around $130,000, including destination fees. This is a significant increase compared to the base gas-powered Escalade, which starts at $79,295.