2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ: First Drive Impressions of the Electric SUV

Performance and Range

• ⚡ The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ boasts an impressive 460 miles of driving range thanks to its enormous 205 kWh battery pack.
• 🚀 It delivers 750 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in about 4.5 seconds, with a "Velocity Max" mode for maximum power.
• 🔋 The vehicle supports 350 kW max charging, capable of reaching 80% charge in just over half an hour.

Interior and Technology

• 📱 A Google-based infotainment system is featured, offering a responsive touchscreen with Google Maps, but notably lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• 💡 The Sport 2 trim, costing around $150,000, includes exclusive features like automatic opening and closing doors, an AKG sound system, and massaging seats.
• ⚠️ A significant drawback is the lack of a sunshade for the panoramic sunroof, leading to a "fishbowl" feeling and excessive heat.
• 🧩 The user interface is described as complicated, distracting, and convoluted, with a desire for more physical controls despite the responsive screens.

Driving Dynamics and Features

• 💨 The Escalade IQ offers rear steering with up to 10 degrees of angle, allowing it to turn on a dime with an "arrival mode" for crabwalking, similar to the Hummer EV.
• 🛣️ Super Cruise generally performed well on highways, though it experienced some bugs, including a random lockout after passing a semi-truck.
• 🔊 While the ride is comfortable and smooth, there are notable interior rattles in the center console, seats, and dashboard, which is unexpected for a luxury EV.
• ⚠️ Handling in corners reveals the vehicle's significant weight, with tires complaining and a feeling of body roll, making spirited driving not recommended.

Overall Impressions and Value

• 🌟 Despite its impressive range and power, the Escalade IQ is criticized for unfinished details and a high price point, with a wish for more effort from GM on a flagship EV.
• 🚗 The reviewer ultimately prefers driving the Escalade IQ over the standard Escalade due to its EV smoothness, speed, and comfort, but notes it's partly due to the enormous battery.
• 🚫 The absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a recurring annoyance, especially when Google Maps fails, forcing reliance on a phone for navigation.
• 🚪 The automatic doors are seen as a gimmick that can be both cool and annoying, with instances of doors closing too quickly.