The first-ever Cadillac Escalade electric SUV, revealed with an ‘IQ’ suffix in 2023, is arriving at dealers later this year. Months ahead of its market launch, the Cadillac Escalade IQ is appearing at various public events for marketing. Currently, it’s on display at the 2024 Chicago Auto Show (February 8-19, 2024), and here are my observations following my tryst with the luxury SUV in the metal:
What does it look like?
The Cadillac Escalade IQ has a dramatic exterior, which I think does justice to the nameplate that has dominated the large luxury SUV for two decades. I think its authentic SUV character makes it look tough and confident.
The sloping roofline, forward-leaning D-pillar, and raked liftgate glass lend it a touch of sophistication for some contrast. The illuminated black crystal shield along with vertical headlights and DRLs give the model a high-tech and powerful appearance.
How’s it on the inside?
The Cadillac Escalade IQ features a futuristic and swanky interior flooded with screens and luxurious materials. The highlight of the interior is the combination of two free-standing screens on the dashboard, almost seamlessly merged on a curved panel and together measuring 55 inches diagonally.
I like the crisp graphics and vibrant skin of these displays. Additionally, a portrait-oriented touchscreen connects the dashboard and a floating center console, enhancing the design flow of the cabin.
In the second row, too, there are three screens, including a tablet-like command center panel in the center console and two 12.6-inch entertainment units attached to the backrests of the front seats. Massaging individual seats in the second row feature built-in speakers in the headrests.
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The panoramic fixed glass roof, dual wireless phone charging pads, and stowable tray tables allow the VIP clients to relax, enjoy, and work comfortably and conveniently on the go. The Cadillac Escalade IQ is a seven-seater and features a 60:40-split, power-folding bench in the third row.
Is it quick?
The Cadillac Escalade IQ uses a massive battery pack with an energy storage capacity of more than 200 kWh, made of lithium-ion NCMA cells. The battery pack can take advantage of 800-volt DC chargers, with just 10 minutes of charging providing up to 100 miles of range. On a full charge, the Escalade IQ can cover a distance of 450 miles.
Two motors power the Escalade IQ, one in the front and one in the back. By default, they produce 680 hp and 615 lb.-ft. of torque. With an available boost function, the combined power and combined torque can be temporarily hiked to 750 hp and 785 lb.-ft., respectively. With the boost function enabled, a 0-60 mph sprint takes less than five seconds. The Escalade IQ holds the potential to tow up to 8,000 lbs. Do note that all these specifications are Cadillac estimates.
How much is it?
The prices of the Cadillac Escalade IQ will start at around $130,000 (incl. destination charges). The production of the electric full-size SUV will take place at GM’s Factory Zero Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center in Michigan, starting in Summer 2024.
Also See: First Look Review: The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq is a luxury all-rounder
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 16 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading CEOs and vehicle developers from around the world.
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