General Motors is making a bold statement in the electric vehicle (EV) arena: size and battery capacity matter. The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ emerges as a testament to this philosophy, packing over a ton and a half of batteries to deliver an unprecedented range of up to 450 miles. This figure surpasses any other electric SUV currently available, positioning it as a frontrunner in the luxury EV market and potentially setting a new benchmark for what drivers expect from the Best Awd Crossover vehicles, albeit in a larger SUV form factor.
While the Escalade IQ boasts crossover-like versatility with its three-row, seven-seat configuration, it’s not designed for every crossover shopper due to its premium positioning. Although official pricing is still under wraps, GM hints at a starting price around $130,000. This price tag exceeds the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, another luxury three-row all-electric SUV, by more than 20%. For those seeking the best AWD crossover experience with top-tier luxury and extended range, the Escalade IQ presents a compelling, albeit expensive, option.
Escalade IQ vs. the Electric SUV Competition: Range and Size
In the realm of electric SUVs, the GMC Hummer EV SUV is a notable size competitor, yet even it can’t rival the Escalade IQ’s range. The Hummer EV SUV, starting at $98,845, is heavier and wider than the Escalade IQ, but shorter and accommodates only five passengers. Despite having a nearly identical battery size, its greater mass reduces its range to 314 miles. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, in its top trim, is priced slightly below the Escalade IQ, at $127,100, but it’s significantly smaller and offers a range that barely breaches the 300-mile mark, falling to 285 miles in its AWD configuration. Tesla’s Model X, while more affordable, is considerably shorter and offers a smaller third-row seat, with a range of 348 miles. The Escalade IQ distinguishes itself by offering superior range and size within the luxury electric SUV category, pushing the boundaries of what consumers can expect from a high-end, all-wheel-drive electric vehicle that could be considered the pinnacle of AWD crossovers in terms of size and luxury.
Alt text: Sleek side profile of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ showcasing its aerodynamic design and large wheels, emphasizing its modern electric crossover aesthetic.
Underneath the Metal: The Ultium Platform Advantage
Despite sharing the Escalade name and design cues, the Escalade IQ is fundamentally different from its gasoline-powered counterpart. It’s engineered on GM’s dedicated Ultium platform for EVs. Interestingly, the Escalade IQ is wider yet shorter than the extended-length Escalade ESV, indicating a strategic shift in proportions to optimize the electric drivetrain and potentially enhance its appeal as a modern, spacious vehicle that aligns with some crossover design principles while retaining SUV dimensions.
Alt text: Striking front fascia of the Cadillac Escalade IQ electric SUV, highlighting its bold grille design and advanced LED lighting, projecting a powerful and sophisticated image for a top-tier AWD crossover.
Weight and Efficiency Considerations
While Cadillac has not yet released official figures, the Escalade IQ is anticipated to weigh between 8,000 and 9,000 pounds, with the battery pack alone contributing 3,000 pounds. This substantial weight typically impacts an EV’s energy efficiency. The 2025 Escalade IQ is expected to be among the less energy-efficient EVs on the market. However, it’s still projected to be more efficient than traditional gasoline-powered Escalades. This trade-off between size, range, and efficiency is a key consideration for consumers in the luxury AWD crossover and SUV segment, and the Escalade IQ aims to deliver a compelling balance despite its heft.
In conclusion, the Cadillac Escalade IQ is setting new standards in the electric SUV market, offering unparalleled range and luxury. While its price point positions it at the premium end, its features and capabilities firmly place it as a top contender for those seeking the best AWD crossover experience, albeit in a larger SUV package. For buyers prioritizing range, space, and cutting-edge EV technology, the Escalade IQ is poised to be a leader.
