The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ isn’t just another luxury SUV — it’s one of the most expensive three-row electric SUVs on the market, starting at over $130,000 and climbing past $170,000 when fully optioned. For a week, I lived with this beast, testing everything from charging costs to third-row comfort, to see if it’s worth the hype (and the money).
I also created a Youtube video that can be watched here.
First Impressions: The Most Luxurious Electric SUV?
When Cadillac dropped off the Escalade IQ, the first thing that hit me wasn’t the design (which is stunning) — it was the size.
This electric Escalade tips the scales at nearly 9,000 pounds. For context, that’s about the same as:
- Two Ford F-150 pickup trucks stacked together
- A U-Haul moving truck
- Or its cousin, the GMC Hummer EV
It’s also one of the longest SUVs ever made, rolling on massive 24-inch wheels and featuring the kind of presence you usually associate with presidential convoys. Simply put: if you want an SUV that screams luxury and power, this is it.
Performance and Driving Experience
Don’t let the weight fool you. Thanks to its dual-motor setup, the Escalade IQ rockets from 0–60 mph in 4.7 seconds. That’s insane for something this heavy.
Highlights include:
- Independent 4-wheel steering – makes it surprisingly maneuverable in tight spaces
- Magnetic Ride Control suspension – absorbs bumps and potholes effortlessly
- Air suspension with low mode – drops the SUV two inches for easy entry/exit
- Crab Walk mode – more gimmick than practical, but still fun to show off
And if you plan on towing, it can handle up to 8,000 lbs — just slightly less than the gas-powered Escalade.
For long trips, Cadillac’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system shines. Lane changes are smooth, it sticks to mapped highways, and it makes road trips much less tiring.
Cadillac Escalade IQ Range and Charging Costs
Here’s where things get real. The Cadillac Escalade IQ range is EPA-rated at 465 miles, making it one of the longest-range electric SUVs ever built. Some tests (like Edmunds) even managed over 550 miles on a single charge, which is jaw-dropping for a 9,000-lb SUV.
But charging comes with trade-offs:
- Max charging rate: 350 kW DC fast charging
- Reality: long wait times if you’re filling the giant battery from low
Cost: easily over $100 for a full fast charge, depending on rates. Obviously, it’s cheaper to charge at home.
Interior and Features: Where $170K Really Shows
Step inside, and it feels less like a car and more like a rolling VIP lounge.
- 55-inch LED display across the dash
- 42-speaker AKG audio system (part of the $7,500 Executive Package)
- Rear-seat entertainment with Netflix, YouTube, and HDMI inputs
- Massage seats, wireless charging, tray tables, and full recline
- Glass roof with excellent heat insulation
- Night Vision mode for spotting wildlife at night
- Google Built-In: fast, responsive, and with smart EV route planning
Even the ambient lighting and exterior light show feel like an event. Lock the car, and it puts on a mini dance routine with its lights.
Space, Cargo, and the Famous Escalade IQ Frunk
Here’s where practicality clashes with luxury.
- Third row: Cramped and uncomfortable for adults, with a high floor
- Trunk with all rows up: Minimal luggage space
- With third row folded: Decent, but… if you option the Executive Package, the second row doesn’t fold flat
- Frunk: At 12.2 cubic feet, it’s one of the biggest on the market and even comes with a sliding tray
If you’re buying this SUV for Costco runs or family road trips, the frunk will save you. But if you regularly need usable third-row space, you may want to wait for the Cadillac Escalade IQL (a stretched version with more rear passenger room).
Price and Value: Who Is This SUV For?
The Cadillac Escalade IQ I tested was priced at $166,905. That’s enough to buy a Tesla Model X and a Rivian R1S — or two Teslas plus a vacation.
So, who’s this for?
- Luxury buyers who value comfort, tech, and exclusivity over practicality
- Chauffeured owners who want maximum rear-seat comfort
- Status seekers who want one of the most eye-catching EVs on the road
Final Verdict: Is the Cadillac Escalade IQ Worth $170K?
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ is big, bold, luxurious, and expensive. It has one of the longest ranges of any electric SUV, a jaw-dropping interior, and more tech than you’ll probably ever use.
But it’s not perfect: the cramped third row, high charging costs, and limited cargo flexibility with executive seats are real downsides.
If you want the ultimate statement EV SUV, this is it. But if you’re thinking in terms of practicality or value, there are plenty of cheaper options that make more sense.
For me? Driving it for a week was enough. I loved the experience — but my bank account breathed a sigh of relief when I gave it back.
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The opinions and views expressed on this blog are solely personal, Everyday Chris. Everyday Chris is not affiliated with or endorsed by Lucid Motors. It is neither inferred nor implied that products recommended by Everyday Chris nor recommendations given by Everyday Chris are authorized by or in any way connected to Lucid Motors. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full Terms & Conditions for more information.
