One level above a V8 engine, the Cadillac Escalade IQ [Test Drive Report]

*This content was translated by AI.

Verdict

An ultra-large electrified SUV where its massive size is such a strong advantage that minor drawbacks are barely noticeable.

Good

- Despite its enormous bulk, it can travel 739 km on a single charge.

- The Super Cruise system provides reassurance as if carrying an entire passenger load, making one forget the exhilaration of a V8 engine.

Bad

- The 24-inch wheels and tires that withstand a curb weight of 4,210 kg become daunting to replace when the time comes.

- Why is the price 277.57 million won? Is it because...?

Competitor

- Genesis GV90: Similar size but with even more luxurious interior and exterior, plus overwhelming presence.

- Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV: Its lavish interior and acceleration are unforgettable.

Cadillac is a luxury brand representing the United States. Its approach to luxury differs from Europe's. As a North American luxury element that must be included under the Cadillac brand, "grandeur" is essential. This role has always belonged exclusively to the Escalade within Cadillac. The view that the Escalade transcends the Cadillac brand itself stems from it being the car that represents the keyword "grand luxury." That is why the Cadillac Escalade stands as proof of North American luxury. And this time, the vehicle we tested is the Escalade IQ. Cadillac attaches "IQ" to its electrified models.

The Cadillac Escalade IQ serves as a blueprint for opening a new chapter for the Escalade in the electrified era, making it even more powerful. With an overall length of 5,715 mm and a wheelbase of 3,460 mm, this heavy vehicle is equipped with a massive 250 kWh lithium-ion battery laid across its floor. It essentially packs what would normally require two family-sized electric SUVs into one. As a result, it can travel 739 km on a single charge, but the curb weight alone reaches 4,210 kg even without any cargo, making it extremely heavy. When vehicles become heavier, disadvantages tend to be highlighted. Acceleration and deceleration become more demanding, and because the vehicle must support its own weight, more equipment is required.

Most brands would have chosen an alternative approach rather than overcoming such elements. However, the DNA of the Cadillac Escalade was different. The Cadillac Escalade IQ adopted 24-inch wheels and tires with a flat ratio of 275, offering an overwhelmingly large size. Air suspension incorporating MRC technology and massive wheel housings are key elements that instantly imprint this vehicle's presence.

The combined maximum torque for front and rear wheels to roll these large wheels reaches 108.5 kg·m. In fact, without such power, controlling these large wheels and tires would not be easy. This is why only vehicles of the Escalade IQ's size among electrified SUVs can attempt this scale. The rated voltage and capacity of 350 V / 596 Ah are also figures achievable only in this vehicle class. Even if they appear as a mere list of numbers, other electric vehicles would not dare to match them. These are achievements possible within the domain Cadillac has upheld as North American luxury.

The exterior resembles the existing Cadillac Escalade but differs significantly in details. First, after the D-pillar slopes down like a coupe line, the trunk lid appears dizzying yet stylish. The front end, filled with LED lamp lights that resemble fireworks while being closed-off yet dazzling, is exclusive to the Escalade IQ. The trunk capacity alone amounts to 345 liters. Even with all three rows of seats in use, the rear trunk capacity reaches a spacious 668 liters. In terms of cargo volume alone, it surpasses the internal combustion engine Escalade.

The highlight of the Cadillac Escalade IQ is its interior. The 55-inch curved LED display, which spreads out as if covered by large waves, feels like a living room yet unmistakably belongs to an automobile. Combined with a fixed glass roof, lavish ambient lighting, incredibly soft leather seats with plush cushioning, speakers hidden in the headrests, and thoughtfully arranged convenience features, it creates a top-tier interior atmosphere that harmonizes with the spaciousness. This clearly distinguishes it from European-style luxury car interiors.

The second row features captain seats, eliminating spatial constraints for accessing the third row, which became a key point significantly improving overall space utilization. As a result, the cabin is wide and comfortable while also feeling visually refreshing. Like a premium vehicle, it includes heated and ventilated seats as well as massage functions, and even a refrigerator is installed beneath the center console. It delivers value beyond any expectations.

Unlike European SUVs that abandoned body-on-frame structures for monocoque designs, the Cadillac Escalade has consistently maintained its body-on-frame structure. Moreover, it has developed clever solutions to persistently improve the drawbacks of this chassis design. The rattling and heavy feel were addressed by improving bushings and overcoming them with MRC air suspension, while adjusting ground clearance according to driving conditions turned disadvantages into advantages. On the other hand, the benefits of body-on-frame construction were further enhanced. Thanks to this, even though the Cadillac Escalade IQ weighs well over 4 tons, it can deploy various driving modes including off-road mode.

In particular, the "Arrival Mode" exclusive to the Escalade IQ utilizes rear-wheel steering to allow the vehicle to move diagonally, enabling precise maneuverability in urban parking situations or on narrow roads.

However, despite its powerful output, the Cadillac Escalade IQ lacks the fun of nimble handling due to its enormous size and weight. Its charm lies in a completely different aspect. The moment of operating such a massive vehicle with just one steering wheel creates a peculiar sense of pleasure. Especially, the rear-wheel steering function is nothing short of a divine move. Without this feature, urban driving would have been truly frustrating.

The Super Cruise system of the Cadillac Escalade IQ also contributes to completing the driving pleasure. This driver assistance system that allows drivers to completely remove their hands from the steering wheel is a brand first. On highways and major arterial roads, map-based driving assistance significantly reduces fatigue during long-distance travel. Since a green LED bar inside the steering wheel lights up when active, it is easy to confirm whether the system is functioning.

Particularly impressive is its quietness. In addition to the characteristic silence of electric vehicles, excellent sound insulation completely blocks external noise from intruding. Furthermore, an integrated noise management system combining active noise cancellation and electric vehicle sound enhancement technology cancels out even the slightest noise. A quiet vehicle can improve the driver's concentration while driving, allowing for natural and delicate driving performance.

With all passengers aboard and luggage fully loaded, the Cadillac Escalade IQ approaches 5 tons. Even a slight pressure on the pedal causes this vehicle to surge forward easily. In turning sections, even at reduced speeds, the sense of weight remains substantial. The Cadillac Escalade IQ offers an exceptionally refreshing driving experience on long, straight roads thanks to its high body providing clear visibility and its heavy weight ensuring stability once speed is gained. This refreshing sensation is unique to the Cadillac Escalade in this class. Its braking power was not a concern. The four-wheel disc brakes, working in conjunction with the regenerative braking system, delivered stable braking performance comparable to most mid-size cars.

Although the Escalade IQ is 1,380 kg heavier than its internal combustion engine counterpart weighing 2,830 kg, this weight was not felt as a constraint. This is likely because it aligns with the unique operating characteristics of electric vehicles that can deliver power from the start. Moreover, braking and steering show no flaws in any aspect.

The Cadillac Escalade IQ is a vehicle that boasts overwhelming size and performance, generating an imposing presence simply by appearing, just as previous Escalades have demonstrated. In the electrified era, it has actually enhanced its value further, making one naturally exclaim, "As expected of the Escalade." This is also why it is called "Escalade on top of Escalade IQ." In every aspect, this vehicle embodies value that surpasses the Escalade.

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*This content was translated by AI.