General Motors is making a bold move in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the introduction of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ. This luxury SUV is an all-electric version of the popular Escalade and features its own unique design, platform, interior, and drivetrain. GM is capitalizing on the success of its other high-end EVs, such as the GMC Hummer EV and Chevrolet Silverado EV, by incorporating similar power and battery size in the Escalade IQ.
Under the hood, the Escalade IQ is powered by a pair of motors, one in the front and one in the rear, which deliver up to 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque, providing impressive all-wheel drive performance. In fact, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than five seconds. Cadillac offers a Velocity Max mode for maximum power and performance, while Normal mode delivers slightly lower ratings of 680 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle also features a regenerative braking system with a one-pedal driving mode, known as Variable Regen on Demand.
The Escalade IQ is equipped with GM’s Ultium 24-module, 200-plus-kWh battery, which is also found in the Hummer EV Pickup. This large battery contributes to an estimated range of 450 miles on a single charge. The vehicle’s 800-volt architecture allows for fast charging capabilities, with 100 miles of range added in just 10 minutes on a 350-kW DC fast charger. It can also be charged at a rate of up to 19.2 amps on a 240-volt outlet, adding 37 miles of range per hour.
In terms of design, the Escalade IQ retains the iconic Cadillac styling cues, including a tall, blocky shape, a long, high-set hood, and vertical headlights and taillights. However, it also features some distinct differences, such as a “crystal shield” in place of a traditional grille and a roofline with a greater overall slope. The vehicle’s coefficient of drag is 15% lower than the gas-powered Escalade, contributing to improved efficiency.
Related Post
Inside, the Escalade IQ boasts a high-tech dashboard with a full-width 55.0-inch bank of digital screens. The instrument cluster and center touchscreen account for 35.0 inches, while a 20.0-inch passenger screen provides additional display space. Below that, an 11.0-inch touchscreen controls climate and vehicle settings. The vehicle is equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Cockpit Platform and features a Google-based system with Unreal Engine graphics, Google Built-in, Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play.
The Escalade IQ offers seating for seven, with the option of second-row captain’s chairs or an Executive Second Row package with rear bucket seats. The package includes rear entertainment screens, wireless smartphone chargers, and an additional touchscreen for comfort controls. The vehicle comes standard with a 19-speaker AKG audio system, and higher trim levels offer a 36-speaker or 40-speaker AKG system.
In terms of safety and driver-assist features, the Escalade IQ comes standard with GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driver-assist feature, blind-spot monitors with steering assist, a surround-view camera system, automatic parking, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and bicyclist detection. However, it’s worth noting that the Super Cruise feature is only included for three years.
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ is set to hit the market in the summer of 2024. It will be available in Sport and Luxury models, with brushed aluminum trim for Luxury models and darkened metal finishes for Sport versions. While pricing for the Escalade IQ has not been officially announced, Cadillac estimates that it will start at around $130,000, with additional features and trims potentially pushing the price above $150,000.
General Motors’ continued efforts in the high-end EV category, exemplified by the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ, demonstrate the company’s commitment to electrification. With its impressive power, range, and luxury features, the Escalade IQ is poised to compete with other high-end electric SUVs in the market, offering customers a combination of performance, style, and sustainability.
