Hey there, car enthusiasts! Buckle up, because today we’re diving into the Cadillac Escalade IQ review—an electrified twist on the iconic luxury SUV that’s been turning heads since the late ‘90s. Picture this: a massive, blinged-out ride that once guzzled gas like a frat boy at a keg party, now zipping silently down the road on pure electric power. It’s bold, it’s brash, and it’s packed with enough tech to make your smartphone jealous. I’ve been itching to get my hands on this beast ever since Cadillac announced it, and now that it’s here in 2025, it’s time to spill the beans. Let’s break it down and see if this electric Escalade lives up to the hype—or if it’s just a fancy golf cart with a Cadillac badge.
What’s the Cadillac Escalade IQ All About?
The Cadillac Escalade IQ is Cadillac’s big leap into the electric vehicle (EV) world, and boy, does it make a splash. This isn’t just an Escalade with a battery slapped under the hood—it’s a ground-up redesign built on General Motors’ Ultium platform, the same tech powering other heavy-hitters like the GMC Hummer EV. Launched in late 2024 and hitting the streets as a 2025 model, the Escalade IQ promises to blend the luxury and swagger of its gas-powered sibling with the eco-friendly perks of an EV. Think of it as the lovechild of a classic Caddy and a Tesla, but with a lot more attitude.
So, what’s the deal? This beast boasts a whopping 460 miles of range (Cadillac’s estimate), up to 750 horsepower in its “Velocity Max” mode, and a starting price of around $130,000. Yeah, it’s not cheap, but when has an Escalade ever been a budget buy? It’s aimed at the tech-savvy, status-driven crowd—folks who want to roll up to the valet in something that screams “I’ve made it” without leaving a trail of exhaust fumes. I mean, who wouldn’t want to flex a little greener?
First Impressions: Bigger, Bolder, and a Little Bit Bonkers
The first time I laid eyes on the Escalade IQ, I couldn’t help but chuckle. It’s huge—like, “did you park a yacht in my driveway?” huge. Clocking in at 224.3 inches long and tipping the scales at around 9,000 pounds (some say closer to 10,000), this thing is a rolling fortress. But here’s the kicker: despite its size, it’s got a sleek, modern vibe that sets it apart from the boxy, chrome-drenched Escalades of yesteryear. The front grille is more of a light show than a traditional grille, with LEDs dancing like it’s ready to star in a Vegas act. It’s futuristic, flashy, and honestly, a little over-the-top—but that’s the Escalade way, right?
Walking around it, I noticed the massive 24-inch wheels wrapped in 35-inch tires. These aren’t just for show—they give the IQ a planted, commanding stance. And get this: the doors open and close with the push of a button. I felt like I was stepping into a sci-fi movie, half-expecting the car to say, “Welcome aboard, Dave.” Spoiler alert: it didn’t, but I wouldn’t have been shocked if it had.
Inside the Cabin: Screens, Screens, and More Screens
Step inside the Cadillac Escalade IQ, and you’re greeted by what can only be described as a tech lover’s fever dream. The dashboard is dominated by a 55-inch diagonal LED screen that stretches from one side to the other. It’s split into sections: one for the driver’s gauges, one for infotainment, and even a chunk for the passenger to mess around with. Want to watch Netflix while your spouse drives? Go for it—the screen’s polarized so the driver can’t peek. Cadillac’s basically saying, “Don’t worry, we’ve got your backseat driver entertainment covered.”
The rest of the interior? Pure luxury. Soft leather, real wood trim, and ambient lighting with 126 color options—it’s like stepping into a high-end lounge. I sank into the front seat and thought, “This is what clouds must feel like if they were upholstered.” The second-row captain’s chairs are plush, and even the third row has decent legroom (30.1 inches, to be exact), though it’s not quite as spacious as the gas-powered Escalade. Still, it’s a seven-seater that doesn’t make you feel like you’re punishing your friends by sticking them in the back.
Here’s a quick rundown of the interior highlights:
- Massive 55-inch screen: Controls everything from navigation to climate.
- 19-speaker AKG audio system: Sounds so crisp, you’ll hear the bassline of your favorite song in your soul.
- Frunk storage: 12.2 cubic feet up front—perfect for golf bags or, you know, a small grocery haul.
- Power doors: Because manually opening doors is so 2020.
One gripe? No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Cadillac’s gone all-in on Google Built-In, which works fine but lacks the familiarity of my iPhone’s interface. I missed my CarPlay playlists, but the Google system grew on me after a bit of fiddling.
Driving the Escalade IQ: Silent Power Meets Surprising Agility
Alright, let’s get to the fun part: driving this electric behemoth. With dual electric motors pumping out 680 horsepower in normal mode (or 750 in Velocity Max), the Cadillac Escalade IQ is no slouch. Punch the throttle, and it launches from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds—pretty wild for something that weighs more than my childhood home. The acceleration is smooth and quiet, almost eerie compared to the V8 roar of the old Escalade. It’s like a ninja sneaking up on you, but instead of a katana, it’s wielding luxury and torque.
What really blew my mind was the handling. Cadillac threw in four-wheel steering (7.2 degrees of rear-wheel turn), and it makes this giant SUV feel shockingly nimble. Tight parking lot? No sweat—it pivots like a much smaller car. There’s even an “Arrival Mode” that lets it crab-walk diagonally—perfect for sliding into a spot at the red carpet or just showing off to your neighbors. I tried it in a friend’s driveway and laughed like a kid when it worked flawlessly. Who needs parallel parking skills when you’ve got this trick up your sleeve?
The ride quality, though? It’s a mixed bag. The adaptive air suspension smooths out most bumps, but those massive 24-inch wheels and high-pressure tires can make it feel a tad jittery over rough roads. It’s not a dealbreaker, but I expected a bit more plushness from a luxury SUV this pricey. On the highway, though, it’s a dream—quiet, stable, and loaded with Super Cruise, GM’s hands-free driving tech. I let it take the wheel for a stretch, and it handled curves and traffic like a pro. My hands stayed free for some serious air drumming.
Range and Charging: Going the Distance
Range anxiety? Not here. Cadillac claims the Escalade IQ can go 460 miles on a single charge, thanks to its monstrous 200+ kWh battery pack. That’s more juice than some EVs have in two batteries combined! In real-world tests, folks have seen numbers closer to 400-450 miles, depending on driving habits. I took it for a weekend spin and burned through about 200 miles without breaking a sweat—plenty left for a spontaneous detour to grab some tacos.
Charging’s a breeze, too. With its 800-volt architecture, it can gulp down 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes on a 350-kW DC fast charger. At home on a Level 2 charger, you’re looking at 37 miles per hour—not lightning-fast, but solid for overnight top-ups. Here’s a handy table to break it down:
| Charging Type | Range Added | Time |
|---|---|---|
| DC Fast Charger (350 kW) | 100 miles | 10 minutes |
| Level 2 (240V, 19.2A) | 37 miles | 1 hour |
| Level 1 (120V) | 14.8 miles | 1 hour |
Sure, it’s no Tesla Supercharger network (yet—adapters are coming), but it’s more than enough to keep you rolling.
The Price Tag: Luxury Comes at a Cost
Let’s talk money. The Cadillac Escalade IQ starts at $129,990 for the base Luxury 1 trim, climbing to $150,490 for the fully loaded Sport 2. That’s a hefty jump from the gas-powered Escalade’s $87,595 entry price. You’re paying for the tech, the range, and that electric bragging rights factor. Is it worth it? Depends on your vibe. If you’re all about cutting-edge luxury and zero emissions, it’s a steal compared to, say, a Tesla Model X Plaid ($138,000) with less range (333 miles).
But here’s a pro tip: shop around. Some dealers slap on markups (I’ve heard of $20,000 over MSRP!), while others stick to the sticker price. Call ahead, save some cash, and avoid the “I just paid for the salesman’s yacht” regret.
Pros and Cons: The Good, the Bad, and the Pricey
No Cadillac Escalade IQ review is complete without weighing the highs and lows. Here’s my take:
Pros:
- Insane range: 460 miles keeps you cruising without worry.
- Luxury overload: Screens, leather, and power doors—oh my!
- Surprising agility: Four-wheel steering makes it dance like a smaller SUV.
- Silent power: 750 hp with none of the V8 growl (a pro for some!).
Cons:
- Pricey: $130K+ isn’t pocket change.
- Ride stiffness: Those big wheels can feel bumpy.
- No CarPlay: Google’s fine, but I miss my iPhone mirroring.
- Size: Good luck fitting this in a tight garage.
Who’s This Beast For?
The Escalade IQ isn’t for everyone—and that’s okay. It’s built for the bold: the tech-forward folks who want luxury with a side of sustainability. Think celebrities pulling up to the Grammys, CEOs cruising to the boardroom, or suburban dads who just want to one-up the neighbors. It’s not a budget ride, and it’s not subtle, but it’s a statement on wheels. I can see it parked next to a yacht or tearing down the highway with equal swagger.
Personally, I’d love one for road trips. That range, those seats, and the ability to glide past gas stations with a smug grin? Sign me up. But my wallet’s still recovering from last month’s taco binge, so I’ll admire it from afar for now.
Final Thoughts: A New King of Bling?
So, does the Cadillac Escalade IQ live up to its legendary name? Heck yes, it does—with a twist. It’s not just an electric version of the Escalade; it’s a reimagining of what luxury can be in the EV age. It’s got the power, the presence, and the plushness to keep the Escalade legacy alive, all while waving goodbye to the gas pump. Sure, it’s got quirks (that ride quality, ugh), and the price might make you choke on your coffee, but it’s a standout in a sea of EVs.
If I had to sum it up, I’d say this: the Escalade IQ is like your rich uncle who traded his cigar for a vape pen—still flashy, still fun, just a little greener. Whether it’s the best Escalade ever is up for debate, but it’s definitely not a lesser one. What do you think—would you drop the cash for this electric beast? Let me know, because I’m already dreaming of my next test drive!
