Unveiled amidst great anticipation, the Cadillac Escalade IQ has taken the stage, and its grandeur is nothing short of remarkable. This luxurious SUV, larger in size than a Hummer, exudes a level of acceleration that rivals many high-performance sports cars. Cadillac’s audacious statement is clear – the Escalade IQ is a force to be reckoned with.
Dominating the heart of the Escalade IQ is a mammoth 200kWh battery, dwarfing those found in other esteemed luxury vehicles like the BMW i7 and Mercedes-Benz EQS. This colossal power source empowers the Escalade with an impressive claimed range of 450 miles, boasting an efficiency rating of 2.25 miles per kWh. While it may not wear the green crown, Cadillac’s intent is crystal – to offer a vehicle that epitomises opulence without reliance on a traditional combustion engine.
A marvel of technology, the Escalade IQ operates on 800V electrical systems, rendering it capable of replenishing up to 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes through rapid charging. Moreover, it flaunts a distinctive feature – the ability to contribute energy back to the grid via vehicle-to-home charging technology. However, this particular feature will only be accessible through a software update slated for the 2025 model year.
At its core, the Escalade IQ houses a duo of electric motors, one for each axle, channeling a robust 750bhp and 785lb ft of torque to all four wheels, particularly potent in the Velocity Max mode. This exhilarating setup propels the Escalade from 0 to 60mph in less than 5.0 seconds, aligning itself with the swiftness of high-performance hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Golf R. Astonishingly, this luxury SUV boasts a nimble 12m turning radius, rivalling that of many family hatchbacks.
The interior of the Escalade is adorned with a majestic 55-inch infotainment screen, adroitly managed through a BMW iDrive-style dial gracing the centre console. For those seeking the pinnacle of opulence, an optional ‘Executive’ second-row seating configuration beckons, offering plush, airline-inspired thrones accompanied by 12.6-inch screens, catering to both entertainment and productivity. Further enhancing its versatility, the third row of seats gracefully folds at the touch of a button.
Pioneering innovation, the Escalade includes a three-year subscription to GM’s Super Cruise driver assistance technology, affording drivers the luxury of hands-free navigation on compatible roadways. With prices commencing at $130,000 (£102,000) in the United States, the Escalade IQ beckons luxury SUV enthusiasts, allured by the promise of opulence intertwined with cutting-edge advancements.
