Drive UAE Review: 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Luxury SUV
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ is a bold step into the future. As Cadillac’s first fully electric full-size SUV, it combines the brand’s signature luxury with the latest in electric vehicle technology. With the UAE moving steadily toward a greener future and more drivers looking for sustainable yet premium options, the Escalade IQ arrives at just the right time.
Let’s examine what makes the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ a smart and stylish choice for UAE drivers.
Exterior Design & Size
The first thing you notice about the Escalade IQ is its futuristic design. The shape of the SUV is smooth and aerodynamic, which helps improve driving range and overall performance. Cadillac has worked on reducing air resistance by 15% compared to its previous models, giving the Escalade a sleeker look without losing its bold presence.
The front and back lights also make a strong impression. The vertical LED light signature and animated lighting effects make it stand out on Dubai’s roads, especially at night.
The Escalade IQ is one of the largest SUVs in production. It measures 224.3 inches long, and Cadillac plans to launch a longer version called the Escalade IQL, which will stretch to 228.5 inches. It’s a powerful, road-dominating vehicle with plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
Interior Luxury & Technology
It features a 55-inch pillar-to-pillar LED screen, stretching across the front dashboard. This screen combines a digital instrument cluster, central infotainment, and a passenger display—all powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon® Cockpit Platform. The result is a seamless, high-tech experience for both driver and passengers.
In the back, the Executive Second Row package takes comfort to another level. Rear passengers get their 12.6-inch entertainment screens, tray tables, massaging seats, and even headrest speakers. It also comes with a premium 40-speaker AKG Studio Reference sound system, making every journey enjoyable.
A panoramic fixed-glass roof and 126-color ambient lighting add to the feeling of openness and calm. It’s a peaceful space, perfect for the busy lives of Dubai residents.
Performance & Power
The Escalade IQ is built on GM’s Ultium battery platform and includes a large 205 kWh battery. This powerful battery allows a driving range of up to 460 miles (around 740 km) on a full charge, which is more than enough for long drives between Emirates.
It uses a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers up to 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque. This SUV can go from 0 to 60 mph (around 0 to 100 km/h) in under 5 seconds, which is impressive for a vehicle of its size.
It also features Adaptive Air Ride Suspension and Four-Wheel Steer technology. This helps the car stay smooth on bumpy roads and turn more easily in tight spaces. It is useful in busy areas like Downtown Dubai or Abu Dhabi’s Corniche.
Charging Capabilities
One of the main concerns with electric vehicles is charging. Cadillac has addressed this with fast-charging capabilities. Because of its 800-volt charging system, the Escalade IQ can add about 100 miles (160 km) of range in just 10 minutes using a DC fast charger.
It also supports Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) features. This means the Escalade can power your home during a power outage or provide electricity for devices or appliances while camping or on the go.
Advanced Safety & Driving Support
It features a hands-free driving system that works on over 640,000 kilometers of mapped roads across North America, and it is expected to expand globally. This is perfect for highway driving between cities in the UAE.
In addition to Super Cruise, it includes a full set of safety features:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Night vision
- Blind spot monitoring
These tools help keep you and your passengers safe on every trip.
Trims and Pricing
The 2025 Escalade IQ is available in four trims:
- Luxury 1
- Sport 1
- Luxury 2
- Sport 2
Each trim level offers different features and styling. The starting price is around $129,900 (approximately AED 477,000), and higher trims offer more luxury and technology. While this price is on the higher side, it matches the features, performance, and brand value Cadillac is known for.
Relevance for the UAE Market
The UAE has been actively encouraging the use of electric vehicles as part of its sustainability goals. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are developing more EV charging stations, and the government offers incentives for EV owners.
The Escalade IQ fits perfectly in this vision. It offers a long range, fast charging, and a high-end experience that suits the taste of UAE drivers who value luxury and technology.
Its size makes it great for large families or business professionals who need a spacious and comfortable vehicle. Plus, its smooth performance and quiet ride are ideal for both city driving and long desert road trips.
Conclusion
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ brings together luxury, power, and sustainability in a way few other SUVs do. It’s a statement vehicle: bold, comfortable, and future-ready. For UAE drivers looking for a premium electric SUV that matches their lifestyle, the Escalade IQ is a strong contender.