The first electric Escalade is on its way, and a recent road test reveals that it’s powerful, plush, and fun to drive. The latest Escalade also boasts a big range of 460 miles, according to Cadillac’s estimates. The electric Escalade is definitely different from the gas model, but it’s one to consider if you want a big SUV.
What’s the Electric Escalade’s Defining Feature?
Most EV models do something different to stand out from the crowd. Some have incredibly quick acceleration, others have eye-popping technology that does something you’d never expect, while others charge in the time it might take you to shop for groceries. The Cadillac Escalade EV’s defining feature right now is that it boasts the longest driving range of any large electric SUV.
It’s quite the departure from the gas Escalade, which has been known for eons as a huge, V8-powered behemoth with the paltry fuel economy to match. It’s definitely a twist for the electric Escalade to be the most economical large EV model out there.
Cadillac suddenly has several EV models to shop for Cadillac lease deals, including the compact Optiq, the ultra-premium Celestiq sedan, the Lyriq, and now the Escalade. The latter is undoubtedly the biggest and boldest with 750 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque.
Big News for the Escalade Model Lineup
The biggest news for 2025 and beyond is that the Escalade is going completely electric with the IQ variant. The IQL is expected in 2026 with more legroom in the third row. However, the electric version definitely isn’t compact. It stretches a massive 228 inches, which is a full 28 inches longer than the Rivian R1S.
The regular Escalade is a cultural icon, but there’s nothing trend-setting about its design these days. The IQ changes things up with a totally different and strikingly modern design. At first glance, it almost looks like a Range Rover, until you get closer and see the size. Despite its size, though, it manages to look sleek rather than hulking.
Inside, it’s quite a bit more luxurious than the gas Escalade with plentiful high-quality materials and a 55-inch HD display. An additional package gives you 42 speakers with the latest Dolby Atmos technology.
Power and Performance Accolades
One thing to note about the electric Escalade is that it weighs over 9,100 pounds, which is nearly 3,000 pounds more than the gas-powered version. Two electric motors power the SUV, one on each axle. Despite its size, it’s estimated to have a 460-mile range and be capable of towing up to 8,000 pounds.
Amazingly, the charging power is up to the task of returning it to full charge. It has a 350 kW maximum rate and can add over 110 miles of range in roughly 10 minutes. It will top off about 250 miles in 30 minutes. Believe it or not, but the Cadillac Escalade IQ doesn’t feel nearly as big as it is. Four-wheel steering makes it a cinch to park and maneuver.
Is it worth it? If you want a huge SUV with zero emissions and excellent “fuel” economy, the electric Escalade’s luxury price feels worth the money.
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