The Cadillac ESCALADE IQ is SUV luxury, electrified

2025-09-08


            

The Cadillac ESCALADE has become legendary as an American luxury icon – bold and powerful, with unmistakable styling. With the introduction of the all-electric ESCALADE IQ, Cadillac is taking that legend to a whole new level. Here’s what it’s like to drive the ultimate expression of ESCALADE.

In the latest installment of our video vehicle review series on the General Motors YouTube channel, I got the chance to slide behind the wheel of a gorgeous new 2025 Cadillac ESCALADE IQ. Driving through the coastal canyons outside of Los Angeles, this beautiful battery-powered brute delivered unparalleled driving bliss.

The luxury journey begins as you walk up to the ESCALADE IQ. Available power-operated doors open and close at the touch of a button, like you’re being tended to by an invisible valet. Sliding into the driver’s seat, you’re greeted by a curved, pillar-to-pillar LED display measuring 55 inches diagonally. Available heated, cooled, and massaging front seats ensure that you enjoy ultimate comfort inside the ESCALADE IQ, no matter the weather outside.

Available Executive Second Row Seating creates a business-jet-like environment for second-row passengers. Each passenger gets an adjustable, reclining seat with a stowable tray table, an individual 12.6-inch diagonal display screen, wireless phone charging pad1, and USB-C2 and HDMI ports. A rear command-center screen gives second-row passengers control over their climate, seat adjustment, and entertainment.

But the greatest thrill in the ESCALADE IQ belongs to the driver. With a Cadillac-estimated 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque available with driver-selectable Velocity Max3, the Cadillac ESCALADE IQ sprints from 0-60 in less than 5 seconds4. Standard four-wheel steering makes the ESCALADE IQ nimble in tight quarters and serene on the highway, and Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 with Adaptive Air Ride Suspension works in real-time to help isolate passengers from undesirable road surfaces while providing precise handling. With a Cadillac-estimated 460 miles of driving range5, the ESCALADE IQ is ready to deliver a luxurious driving experience.

I just had to experience this performance, precision, and comfort for myself. I took the ESCALADE IQ to a private airstrip to experience Velocity Max acceleration3, and roamed coastal California to sample the available hands-free Super Cruise driver assistance technology6. Throughout my day with the ESCALADE IQ, this stunning SUV delivered jaw-dropping sporty performance and plush, near silent EV driving with signature Cadillac elegance and style.

Check out the full video review below, and don’t forget to subscribe to the GM YouTube channel for more in-depth news on the latest General Motors vehicles.

VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/Pri6ywQhMZc

Bob Sorokanich is a former automotive journalist whose work has appeared in Road & Track, Car and Driver, Wired, Robb Report, and many other publications. He is senior editor at GM News. Reach him at news@gm.com

1Some phones have built-in wireless charging technology and others require a special adaptor/back cover. To check for phone or other device compatibility, see my.cadillac.com/learn or consult your carrier.

2Not compatible with all devices.

3On a closed course.

4On a closed course only. Based on initial vehicle movement.

5On a full charge based on development testing and/or analytical projection consistent with SAE J1634 revision 2017 – MCT. Actual range may vary based on several factors, including ambient temperature, terrain, battery age and condition, loading, and how you use and maintain your vehicle.

6Always pay attention while driving and when using Super Cruise. Do not use a hand-held device. Requires active Super Cruise plan or trial. Terms apply. Visit cadillac.com/supercruise for compatible roads and full details.

By Bob Sorokanich, senior editor, GM News

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Front 3/4 view of Cadillac ESCALADE IQ Sport in Flare Metallic.

The Cadillac ESCALADE has become legendary as an American luxury icon – bold and powerful, with unmistakable styling. With the introduction of the all-electric ESCALADE IQ, Cadillac is taking that legend to a whole new level. Here’s what it’s like to drive the ultimate expression of ESCALADE.

In the latest installment of our video vehicle review series on the General Motors YouTube channel, I got the chance to slide behind the wheel of a gorgeous new 2025 Cadillac ESCALADE IQ. Driving through the coastal canyons outside of Los Angeles, this beautiful battery-powered brute delivered unparalleled driving bliss.

The luxury journey begins as you walk up to the ESCALADE IQ. Available power-operated doors open and close at the touch of a button, like you’re being tended to by an invisible valet. Sliding into the driver’s seat, you’re greeted by a curved, pillar-to-pillar LED display measuring 55 inches diagonally. Available heated, cooled, and massaging front seats ensure that you enjoy ultimate comfort inside the ESCALADE IQ, no matter the weather outside.

Available Executive Second Row Seating creates a business-jet-like environment for second-row passengers. Each passenger gets an adjustable, reclining seat with a stowable tray table, an individual 12.6-inch diagonal display screen, wireless phone charging pad1, and USB-C2 and HDMI ports. A rear command-center screen gives second-row passengers control over their climate, seat adjustment, and entertainment.

But the greatest thrill in the ESCALADE IQ belongs to the driver. With a Cadillac-estimated 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque available with driver-selectable Velocity Max3, the Cadillac ESCALADE IQ sprints from 0-60 in less than 5 seconds4. Standard four-wheel steering makes the ESCALADE IQ nimble in tight quarters and serene on the highway, and Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 with Adaptive Air Ride Suspension works in real-time to help isolate passengers from undesirable road surfaces while providing precise handling. With a Cadillac-estimated 460 miles of driving range5, the ESCALADE IQ is ready to deliver a luxurious driving experience.

I just had to experience this performance, precision, and comfort for myself. I took the ESCALADE IQ to a private airstrip to experience Velocity Max acceleration3, and roamed coastal California to sample the available hands-free Super Cruise driver assistance technology6. Throughout my day with the ESCALADE IQ, this stunning SUV delivered jaw-dropping sporty performance and plush, near silent EV driving with signature Cadillac elegance and style.

Check out the full video review below, and don’t forget to subscribe to the GM YouTube channel for more in-depth news on the latest General Motors vehicles.


 

Bob Sorokanich is a former automotive journalist whose work has appeared in Road & Track, Car and Driver, Wired, Robb Report, and many other publications. He is senior editor at GM News. Reach him at news@gm.com

1Some phones have built-in wireless charging technology and others require a special adaptor/back cover. To check for phone or other device compatibility, see my.cadillac.com/learn or consult your carrier.
2Not compatible with all devices.
3On a closed course.
4On a closed course only. Based on initial vehicle movement.
5On a full charge based on development testing and/or analytical projection consistent with SAE J1634 revision 2017 – MCT. Actual range may vary based on several factors, including ambient temperature, terrain, battery age and condition, loading, and how you use and maintain your vehicle.
6Always pay attention while driving and when using Super Cruise. Do not use a hand-held device. Requires active Super Cruise plan or trial. Terms apply. Visit cadillac.com/supercruise for compatible roads and full details.