We’ve all wondered how GM would handle its EV transition with its full-size SUVs like the flagship Cadillac Escalade. Now we know, as it pulled the tarps back to reveal the 2025 Escalade IQ EV. While we hoped it would not take on the heft of the GMC Hummer’s Ultium battery weight and real estate, that is exactly how the Escalade IQ will roll. 

That means a longer Escalade IQ than the current Escalade. The wheelbase extends by 16 inches to 136.2 inches, with overall length going from 211.9 inches to 224.3 inches. But sharing Hummer’s platform also means incorporating the Ultium 24-module battery with its 450-mile range and 750 hp from 200 kWh. It also gives the IQ 785 lb-ft of torque with a towing capacity of 8,000 lbs. But there is more to the battery tech available with the IQ.

What’s the range and power of the Cadillac Escalade IQ?

Vehicle-to-Home bidirectional charging means it can send power back to your home in case of a power outage. There is also its Vehicle-to-Load feature for powering individual external devices it connects to. It also is capable of receiving 800-volt DC fast charging, which Cadillac says adds 100 added miles of range in 10 minutes. 

But there’s more. One-pedal driving is also possible, along with Ultium Energy Recovery recouping still more power. This feature takes waste energy from the battery to power heating, lighting, air conditioning, and other accessories. 

Design-wise, the Escalade IQ departs from the rather upright gas-power Cadillac Escalade. The silhouette tapers more at the back, while the C-pillar and rear window angle forward more dramatically. All of this aids the IQs coefficient of drag, which Cadillac says is lower by 15%. And the grille shutters adjust to driving conditions to improve CD numbers.

What’s the difference between “personas” and trims?

Even the 24-inch wheels also feature an aerodynamic design, with vanes that open and close. Drivers can also program them to open and shut for showing off or otherwise appealing to those gimmick-hungry buyers out there. Oh, and those 24-inch wheels support 35-inch tall tires. That massive rolling stock helps to give the IQ more of a concept car look. 

The IQ comes in two trims, or what Cadillac now calls “personas.” Using “personas” for trim levels seems a bit contrived. But sometimes, brands need to try these stupid ideas to help them discover their errors in judgment. Anyway, the trims are Luxury and Sport. Observers can tell the difference by the IQ’s trim details, while Luxury trims get brushed aluminum for trim and wheels. Sport trims get a dark metal finish instead. 

What are some of the interior features of the Escalade IQ?

Inside, it is what you expect from Cadillac. The overall interior design is linear and simple, without excessive details or flourishes. Massaging seat controls and adjustments for headset volume are included in the rear portion of the console that extends into the rear seats. Executive rear seats also offer 12.6 screens for both passengers. There are also wireless charging pads, USB-C, and HDMI ports galore. 

Underneath, the IQ SUV features Magnetic Ride Control and Adaptive Air Ride Suspension, which raises or lowers the stance. Four-Wheel Steer is another suspension feature, and Cadillac Arrival Mode comes in handy for tight parking spots. And, of course, there is plenty of safety tech available as standard equipment. 

Cadillac Escalade IQ, Lyriq, Celestiq

In all, there is a lot to see and feel with the 2025 Escalade IQ. Preliminary pricing will start at around $130,000 but don’t hold GM to that. As we’ve seen, sometimes base price models never arrive or are otherwise gone once deliveries start. 

Thus continues the electrification onslaught GM’s been promising. The Cadillac Escalade IQ is the latest edition that includes the Celestiq and Lyriq.