The all-new 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ marks a pivotal shift for the luxury SUV segment, blending electrification with the bold design and opulence expected from the Escalade nameplate. Built atop General Motors’ Ultium platform, the Escalade IQ is not just an electric version of a flagship — it’s a reimagined powerhouse, designed to dazzle with cutting-edge performance, technology, and sheer road presence.
Electrified Might
In a market increasingly focused on driving range and efficiency, Cadillac is making a strong statement. The Escalade IQ boasts a GM-estimated 450 miles of range thanks to a massive 24-module, 200-kWh Ultium battery. In standard configuration, it produces 680 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque. Tap into Velocity Max mode and those figures leap to 750 hp and 785 lb-ft, enabling 0–60 mph acceleration in under five seconds. With an 8,000-pound towing capacity, this EV retains the muscle to match its size.
Dimensions and Design
The IQ’s scale reinforces its flagship status. It’s over a foot longer and more than 4 inches wider than the standard Escalade, yet its sculpted design lends it a sleek, aerodynamic edge. Rear-wheel steering — up to 10 degrees — makes it surprisingly agile, while Arrival Mode (similar to the Hummer EV’s CrabWalk) lets it maneuver diagonally in tight spaces.
Interior Overhaul
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a futuristic sanctuary. Dominating the dashboard is a 55-inch curved LED display that spans from pillar to pillar. Every surface is covered in premium materials, with an emphasis on tactile luxury — from heated, cooled, and massaging seats to carefully crafted ambient lighting.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Though the Escalade IQ lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Cadillac’s Google-based native interface is robust. Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to the Play Store ensure functionality is not compromised. Front passengers enjoy a dedicated entertainment section on the main screen, while second-row passengers get individual displays — perfect for streaming YouTube or Hulu during long drives.
- Optional 36- or 40-speaker AKG sound systems
- Executive Second Row package adds reclining rear seats and tray tables
- Integrated Google voice assistant and navigation
Real-World Road Manners
Despite its weight — nearly 9,000 pounds — the Escalade IQ moves with surprising grace. The combination of Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, air suspension, and a low center of gravity delivers composed handling, whether on city streets or winding rural roads.
Comfort for Every Passenger
The second-row executive seats mimic the plushness of the front seats, offering 14-way adjustability, massage, and heated/ventilated features. But there’s a trade-off — with a fixed center console in the executive layout, accessing the third row becomes a bit more difficult. Even so, the third row is usable and standard across all trims, a nod to Escalade’s family-friendly reputation.
Charging and Energy Management
Cadillac equips the Escalade IQ with an 800-volt electrical architecture and peak charging rate of 350 kW, allowing it to add 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes under ideal conditions. The vehicle also supports Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) functionality, giving owners the ability to power parts of their home during outages — though this feature requires significant home electrical upgrades.
Regenerative Tech
Drivers can engage One-Pedal Driving or fine-tune deceleration via a steering wheel-mounted paddle, allowing energy to be recaptured during stops. These systems enhance efficiency while easing the driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Minor Grievances and Design Quirks
While reviews have praised the massive screen and intuitive interface, some usability decisions drew criticism. For instance, the blind-spot camera feed interrupts navigation on the main screen — a frustrating experience for those relying heavily on maps. Additionally, some portions of the digital instrument cluster feel underutilized given the screen real estate.
Verdict: A Supermassive Leap Forward
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ is a triumph of ambition and execution. It manages to retain the grandeur of the Escalade while infusing it with future-ready tech and electrified muscle. At a starting price of roughly $130,000, it’s aimed at a niche audience, but delivers unmatched presence, performance, and luxury for those willing to invest.
Whether you’re being chauffeured in executive comfort or piloting the nearly 9,000-pound beast yourself, the Escalade IQ proves that even the most iconic nameplates can evolve — dramatically — without losing their essence.
