2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ: A Luxury Electric SUV with Impressive Performance
Cadillac’s highly anticipated 2025 Escalade IQ has finally released its initial pricing, and it’s exactly what we were expecting. Starting at $129,990 for the base Luxury 1 trim, the Escalade IQ offers a range of luxurious features and advanced technology that truly sets it apart.
Performance-wise, the Escalade IQ does not disappoint. Equipped with a 24-module Ultium battery pack of at least 200 kWh, the electric SUV boasts a powerful motor on each axle for all-wheel drive. These motors deliver a combined 650 horsepower and 615 pound-feet of torque, ensuring exhilarating acceleration and a smooth driving experience. Additionally, the Velocity Max mode can push the output to an impressive 750 hp and 785 lb-ft of torque, perfect for those who crave an extra dose of adrenaline.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Escalade IQ is its estimated range. Cadillac claims that with responsible driving, the SUV can travel up to 460 miles on a full charge. This figure surpasses the initial estimate by an additional 10 miles, making it one of the longest ranges available in the electric SUV market.
Moving on to the differences between trims, Cadillac has divided the Escalade IQ into Luxury and Sport categories. The Luxury trims feature elegant touches like Galvano door handles and polished and machined 24-inch wheels. On the other hand, the Sport trims opt for a more aggressive look with body-colored door handles and diamond-cut wheels with dark tintcoat accents. Both trims offer a host of standard features, but the upper versions of each trim truly stand out.
The top-tier Luxury 2 and Sport 2 trims come with a range of additional luxury features that elevate the overall driving experience. These include massaging front seats with powered bolsters, memory functions for the driver and front passenger seats, power open and close doors, laser-etched and backlit wood trim, Cadillac’s Night Vision system, and an impressive 36- or 40-speaker AKG audio system. Additionally, the upper trims offer the Smart Trailering Package and integrated brake controller for added convenience.
While the base trims come with an 11.5-kWh onboard charging module and the option to upgrade to a 19.2-kWh module, the upper trims come with a faster charger as standard. These advanced charging capabilities ensure that you can recharge your Escalade IQ quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime and maximizing convenience.
For those who want to further customize their Escalade IQ, Cadillac offers a few extra-cost options. These include a rear seat entertainment system, available on all variants for $1,995, and the Smart Trailering Package, available for $2,470 on the lower trims. The Sport trims also have the exclusive option of adding Executive Seating for $7,500, providing an unmatched level of comfort for passengers.
California buyers will also have the added obligation of adding Mobile Service Plus for $799. This mobile technician program, offered by GM, provides convenient on-site maintenance for all GM brands except Cadillac, which can avail it for $599.
In terms of cosmetic choices, the Escalade IQ offers several premium paint options such as Black Cherry Tintcoat and Midnight Steel Frost. Buyers can also opt for a black painted roof to further enhance the SUV’s sleek and sophisticated aesthetic.
When it comes down to it, if you were to choose every available option for the top-tier Sport 2 trim, the price tag would reach around $169,000 before taxes and fees. It’s worth noting that this falls in line with the cost of a fully loaded V8-powered Escalade-V ESV, highlighting the value and luxury offered by the all-electric Escalade IQ.
In conclusion, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ presents a compelling option for luxury SUV enthusiasts who are looking to make the switch to electric vehicles. With its impressive performance, ample range, and extensive list of standard and optional features, the Escalade IQ sets a new benchmark for electric SUVs and solidifies Cadillac’s position as a leader in the luxury electric vehicle segment.
