When Cadillac announced the all-electric Escalade IQL, it raised a lot of eyebrows—and expectations. Could the brand’s most iconic SUV really go fully electric without losing what made it special? After spending some time getting familiar with it, the answer is a confident yes—and then some.

First Impressions: Big, Bold, and Beautiful

The Escalade IQL doesn’t shy away from attention. It’s huge, sleek, and still unmistakably a Cadillac. But this isn’t just a gas-powered Escalade with a battery thrown in. The IQL is built on GM’s Ultium EV platform, meaning it was designed from the ground up to be electric—and it shows.

From the smooth, grille-less front end to the futuristic lighting and 24-inch wheels, it looks like a concept car brought to life. And it has the size to match—this is a full-size SUV through and through.

Range and Power: Electric Confidence

One of the biggest questions for any EV is range, and the IQL delivers. Depending on the configuration, it’s expected to get around 450 miles on a full charge, which puts it at the top of its class. Need to tow a trailer or haul a full cabin of passengers? No problem—thanks to dual- and tri-motor setups, this thing moves with surprising authority. Acceleration is smooth and immediate, with all the torque you’d ever need.

Interior: Classic Cadillac, Elevated

Inside, the IQL is every bit the luxury lounge you’d expect. You’re greeted with a massive curved OLED display stretching across the dash, premium materials like leather, wood, and metal trim, and seating for seven or eight depending on layout.

Even the third row is impressively roomy, which is a rare win in the EV space. Cadillac’s Super Cruise system—a hands-free driving assistant—is also available, making highway cruising feel effortless.

The Drive: Quiet, Composed, Confident

On the road, the Escalade IQL is quiet and composed. The weight is there—you feel it—but thanks to smart suspension and EV-specific tuning, the ride is smooth and responsive. It glides over rough pavement, stays stable through corners, and offers an overall driving experience that feels premium and powerful.

Charging: Fast Enough

Fast-charging capability is solid, and while it’s not class-leading, it’s more than practical for long trips. You’ll still want to install a Level 2 charger at home if you’re planning to use the IQL as a daily driver, but the charging times won’t be a dealbreaker.

Final Thoughts: A New Era for Cadillac

The Escalade IQL isn’t just a milestone for Cadillac—it’s a bold statement about where the luxury SUV market is heading. It combines everything drivers love about the traditional Escalade (space, presence, comfort) with the silent power and sustainability of electric.

It’s not cheap, and it’s definitely not small—but if you’re in the market for an EV that turns heads and treats passengers like royalty, the IQL might just be the future of luxury SUVs.