GM unveiled the Ultium-based Cadillac Escalade IQ for the 2025 model year, offering up an all-new, all-electric evolution for the iconic luxury nameplate. As an expansion to the lineup, Cadillac will also offer the Escalade IQL, an extended-length variant that mirrors the ICE-based Escalade ESV in the traditional ICE-based lineup. Now, GM Authority has captured images of the IQL exiting GM’s testing grounds, showing the extra-length model completely undisguised.
This IQL prototype appears to be in a production-ready state, with no camouflage obscuring its design. Notably, this prototype even sports production-ready badging, indicating that what we’re seeing is likely exactly what we’ll see in dealerships.
While the ICE-based ESV distinguishes itself from the standard Escalade with a longer wheelbase and overall length, the IQL seems to take a different approach. The IQL appears to retain the same wheelbase as the standard IQ, but extends its rear overhang to provide additional space for third-row passengers. This design decision likely stems from the differences in platform architecture between the electric and internal combustion models, with efficiency and range optimization high on the list of priorities.
Another interesting aspect of the IQL’s design is the rear door cut, which is identical to that of the IQ. The rear door intersects with the rear wheel arch in the same location on both models, unlike the ESV’s rear doors, which cut down to the lower sill without meeting the wheel arch. This suggests that the wheelbase extension seen in the ESV might not be present in the IQL, further highlighting the contrast in design philosophy between the electric and ICE variants.
Visually, the Escalade IQL presents distinct styling cues around the C- and D-pillars, with a prominent shark-fin-style C-pillar accented by chrome, contrasting with the glass-covered C-pillar on the IQ. Additionally, the D-pillar on the IQL is more elongated and features a larger glass section, differing from the standard IQ’s design, which opts for a painted body piece. These differences extend to the taillights and rear glass, with the latter being more upright on the IQL.
Overall, the Escalade IQL doesn’t provide as dramatic a size increase over the standard IQ as the ESV does relative to the standard Escalade. However, this could offer benefits in terms of cost and efficiency, important factors when considering the IQ’s already steep starting price of around $130,000. By keeping the size increase more modest, Cadillac could be aiming to balance luxury and practicality, while maintaining competitive pricing in the luxury electric SUV market.
As a reminder, the Escalade IQ rides on the GM BT1 platform and features GM Ultium batteries and GM Ultium Drive motors. Production takes place at the GM Factory Zero plant.
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Comments
C-Pillar sail / chrome trim makes it look like a hearse….
Not as bad as the Acura ZDX.
Exactly my first thought when I saw it.
Came here to post that.
Weirdest looking chrome line so far. And I agree with ‘Ned’ it does make it look like a hearse.
The wheelbase sure looks the same as regular length IQ. That might be good for cost savings but not for proportions or looks (if you ask me).
Besides shorter wheelbase makes it look more like the ICE Escalade.
The ICE Escalade has a wheelbase of 120 inches the Normal Escalade IQ has a wheelbase of 136 inches. There is quite a big difference here.
Exactly, how long can the extended range be when it’s already long af to begin with.
Cadillac Palisade?
I agree. It’s a mismatch of design elements from other brands. There’s the Hyundai greenhouse element and a shameless copy of the signature Lincoln door/front fender trim.
Folks here say Mary Barra needs to go and I don’t disagree but she needs to take Mike Simcoe with her. He’s nowhere near the talent that Harley Earl and especially Bill Mitchell were. GM once was a design leader that set trends and thereby sales records. Now they’re reduced to copying from Hyundai and others.
I agree. At least Farley and Traveras are now getting it. gm’s moves are too little too late.
Lol you really need to understand design trends and look back at Cadillac design elements. There is no copying Lincoln here.
So explain Aston Martin’s signature front grille style / shape on a Ford Fusion….
Ford for some time has owned Aston Martin that’s why.
Same as Ned. Hearse. :facepalm:
The elongated window in the rear is what makes this looks like a hearse. The SWB version has the same chrome trim in the rear
Too bad they can’t adapt that body on a ICE or hybrid frame. Sharp vehicle- a nice compromise between the XT6 and traditional Ecalaide
Bland exterior styling for what should be a flagship. It doesn’t look upscale – more like a mass market Hyundai. An opportunity missed.
Makes me wonder for the reason the IQL has the same wheelbase as the IQ is more luxury features and technology? Perhaps a more advance executive seat package with third row delete with footrest/massage feature? Time will tell.
Needs the diesel to be competitive again.
This looks outdated already. Especially, from the rear.
Now I know why they haven’t refreshed the XT6. This looks like an updated version of the XT6. They don’t want to “compete” with their upcoming EV lineup, so the XT vehicles will eventually fade away, as will their sales!