GM has launched the official online configurator tool for the 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ, allowing interested buyers to customize the all-electric luxury SUV as they see fit.
The new model year brings with it several notable changes, including an updated trim structure, revised pricing, and fresh styling options.
The 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ is once again offered in four distinct trim levels, however, the names applied to these trims have changed. The new lineup is listed from entry to range-topper as Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury, and Premium Sport, while previously, the 2025-model-year lineup included Luxury 1, Sport 1, Luxury 2, and Sport 2. Essentially, the Luxury 2 trim has been renamed as Premium Luxury, while Sport 2 has been renamed as Premium Sport.
Starting prices for the 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ are as follows (prices listed include a $2,390 destination freight charge):
- Luxury: $129,795
- Sport: $130,295
- Premium Luxury: $145,315
- Premium Sport: $150,595
Interestingly, the Luxury and Sport trims are now $295 less expensive than their 2025 equivalents. This small price reduction is primarily due to a switch in the standard wheel options, with the 2026 model year featuring 22-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels (RPO code Q7M) rather the larger 24-inch seven-spoke machined-face alloy wheels (RPO code RDP) that were standard for 2025. The larger 24-inch wheels are now available as an optional upgrade.
Meanwhile, the Premium Luxury and Premium Sport trims get a modest $5 increase in starting price compared to their 2025 counterparts.
The 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ also offers a revised exterior paint palette highlighted by several new colors, including (relevant paint codes listed in parentheses):
- Adobe Frost (GNR)
- Luna Metallic (GNO)
- Magnus Metal Frost (GBL)
- Monarch Orange (GAG)
- Sandstone (G42)
- Vibrant White Tricoat (G4J)
Meanwhile, three colors from the 2025 model year have been discontinued:
- Flare Metallic (GSJ)
- Midnight Steel Frost (GLG)
- Summit White (GAZ)
Production of the 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ is under way now at the GM Factory Zero plant in Michigan. Under the skin, the Escalade IQ rides on the GM BT1 platform, while motivation is derived from a dual-motor powertrain rated at 750 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque with Velocity Max mode active.
Comment
With prices like that, the old adage quickly applies here. A fool and his money are soon parted.