The 2025 Cadillac Escalade and its all-electric sibling, the Escalade IQ, showcase the brand’s ability to innovate while preserving the core traits that have made the Escalade a cultural icon. Both vehicles represent pinnacle achievements in luxury, technology, and performance, yet they cater to different needs with their unique powertrains and features. This article provides an in-depth comparison of these two full-size luxury Cadillac SUVs offered to buyers in Toronto next year, focusing on design, technology, performance, and practicality.
The design of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade builds on its legacy, blending bold updates with familiar elements that owners love. The exterior features a refreshed front end inspired by Cadillac’s CELESTIQ and LYRIQ design language, including an illuminated front crest and grille surround on higher trims. Vertical lighting elements redefine the Escalade's presence, complemented by new 24-inch wheels—the largest ever offered—and three stunning exterior colors: Aegean Stone, Deep Sea Metallic, and Latte Metallic.
The Escalade IQ takes a futuristic approach while maintaining the Escalade's iconic silhouette. The all-electric model features a seamless exterior with a Black Crystal Shield grille and advanced lighting choreography that greets owners as they approach. A fixed panoramic glass roof and massive 24-inch wheels underscore its forward-thinking design. The eTrunk™, with 345 litres of storage, adds functionality by leveraging the absence of a combustion engine.
Inside, both models share luxurious touches, such as the available Executive Second Row package, ambient lighting with 126 color options, and premium materials. However, the Escalade IQ pushes boundaries with a 55-inch curved display that spans the dashboard, integrating infotainment and driver information in one seamless interface.
Both the Escalade and Escalade IQ are technological powerhouses, offering features that enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment.
The 2025 Escalade boasts a 55-inch diagonal display, housing an advanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, voice recognition, and a built-in app store. Passengers can enjoy streaming entertainment on rear screens, supported by an AKG Studio audio system with up to 40 speakers when equipped with the Executive Second Row package. Additional highlights include a full-color head-up display, standard Super Cruise™, and Night Vision on select trims.
The Escalade IQ takes technology to the next level, starting with its intuitive one-pedal driving system and variable regenerative braking for enhanced efficiency. Owners benefit from Super Cruise™ as well, while the IQ’s pillar-to-pillar display merges entertainment, navigation, and vehicle controls. Night Vision, a 23-speaker AKG sound system, and advanced safety systems like Blind Zone Steering Assist are also available, ensuring the highest levels of comfort and security.
The Escalade’s performance is rooted in Cadillac’s proven engineering. It offers a 6.2L supercharged V8 engine in the V-Series trim, delivering 682 horsepower. Paired with Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 and Air Ride Adaptive Suspension, it ensures a smooth yet dynamic driving experience. The gas-powered Escalade provides seating for up to eight passengers and ample cargo space, making it ideal for families or those needing versatility.
The Escalade IQ, on the other hand, represents a paradigm shift with its all-electric powertrain. A 200-kWh Ultium battery supports dual motors that produce 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque. With an estimated range of 724 km, the IQ excels in long-distance capability, while four-wheel steering improves maneuverability. DC fast charging adds up to 160 km of range in just 10 minutes, making it a practical choice for road trips. Despite its futuristic credentials, the IQ doesn’t sacrifice traditional Escalade values, offering a quiet and refined ride with exceptional cargo flexibility.
|
Feature |
2025 Cadillac Escalade |
Cadillac Escalade IQ |
|---|---|---|
|
Powertrain |
6.2L V8, Supercharged V8 (V-Series) |
Dual Electric Motors, 200-kWh Battery |
|
Horsepower |
682 hp (V-Series) |
750 hp |
|
Torque |
653 lb-ft (V-Series) |
785 lb-ft |
|
Range |
N/A (Gas-Powered) |
724 km |
|
Charging Time |
N/A |
160 km in 10 minutes (DC Fast Charge) |
|
Passenger Capacity |
Up to 8 |
Up to 7 |
|
Cargo Space |
3,426 L (maximum) |
3,375 L + 345 L eTrunk |
|
Technology |
55-inch curved display, Super Cruise™ |
55-inch curved display, Super Cruise™ |
|
Wheels |
Up to 24 inches |
24 inches |
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade and the all-electric Escalade IQ represent two sides of the same coin. The Escalade continues to build on its legendary heritage with bold updates and cutting-edge technology, appealing to those who value tradition and proven performance. Meanwhile, the Escalade IQ embraces the future with its groundbreaking electric powertrain, unparalleled range, and advanced features.
Whether you’re drawn to the familiar power and versatility of the gas-powered Escalade or the innovative spirit of the all-electric Escalade IQ, Cadillac offers a luxury SUV tailored to meet your lifestyle and needs. With both models, Cadillac proves it remains at the forefront of automotive design, performance, and technology.
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