Cadillac Escalade vs. Escalade IQ

Cadillac Escalade vs. Escalade IQ: What's the Difference?

When you need a luxurious SUV with plenty of space for all of your passengers, the name that comes to mind is most likely the Cadillac Escalade. It has a long history of being associated with a high-class lifestyle, both in film and popular music. But now that the Escalade IQ is also available, it is a little trickier to choose the right model. Many small details differ between these two vehicles, and deciding which is right for you becomes easier once you directly compare them.

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Cadillac EscaladeFeatureCadillac Escalade IQ
~8,000 lbsOverall Weight~8,000 lbs
211.9 inchesLength224.3 inches
~120 cu. ft.Cargo Space119 cu. ft. + 2 cu. ft. in eTrunk
Leather upholstery, 3-row seating, slightly more legroom in third rowInteriorLeather upholstery, 3-row seating, spacious EV layout with low powertrain placement
6.2L V8 gas engine
~420 hp / 450+ lb-ft torque
Tows up to 8,100 lbs
PowertrainGM Battery Platform (200 kWh)
700+ hp / up to 785 lb-ft torque
55-inch wide dashboard display, Google built-in, Cadillac Super CruiseTechnology55-inch wide dashboard display, Google built-in, Cadillac Super Cruise

Escalade Size Comparison

Front exterior view of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade for sale in Tempe, AZ
2025 Cadillac Escalade
Front exterior view of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade for sale in Tempe, AZ
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ

One of the most noticeable similarities between these two popular Escalade models is the overall weight of each vehicle. You would think that the Escalade IQ's weight would be significantly higher due to the batteries required to give this Cadillac its superior range. However, both Cadillac models are around 8,000 lbs in total. The IQ is 16 inches longer than the base model Escalade, resulting in slightly more storage and legroom. When it comes to cargo space, the Escalade offers around 120 cubic feet, while the IQ provides 119 cubic feet plus 2 cubic feet in the eTrunk.

Interior Differences

Interior view of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade for sale in Tempe, AZ
2025 Cadillac Escalade
Interior view of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade for sale in Tempe, AZ
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ

Both models feature plenty of luxurious interior features that provide a comfortable and entertaining ride. Your passengers can enjoy Escalade IQ interior features like standard leather upholstery and three-row seating, two features that the base Escalade also offers. But when it comes to legroom, the standard Escalade has a slight edge, especially in the third row. However, the IQ still features a far more spacious and less crowded interior than the average EV, thanks to a low powertrain placement. This makes the Cadillac Escalade IQ interior one of the most comfortable options among the electric SUV lineup.

Under the Hood

Rear exterior view of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade for sale in Tempe, AZ
2025 Cadillac Escalade
Rear exterior view of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade for sale in Tempe, AZ
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ

The most obvious difference between the Escalade IQ and the standard model is the engine. The IQ is a cutting-edge electric vehicle, powered by a GM Battery Platform providing 200 kWh of capacity. That allows it to produce over 700 horsepower and up to 785 lb-ft of torque. It's a responsive and powerful ride, but so is the standard Escalade. The 6.2-liter V8 gas engine is a standard feature, producing around 420 horsepower and over 450 ft-lb of torque. With proper tow equipment, the standard gas Escalade can tow up to 8,100 pounds. It's a flexible vehicle for both exploration and work despite its high-end appearance.

Technology

Interior view of the technology in the 2025 Cadillac Escalade for sale in Tempe, AZ
2025 Cadillac Escalade
Interior view of the technology in the 2025 Cadillac Escalade for sale in Tempe, AZ
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ

Both Escalade models come similarly equipped with the best driver safety technology from Cadillac. It's the amazing 55-inch wide dashboard touchscreen display that really convinces many test drivers to make the purchase. Whether you're behind the wheel of the IQ or the standard Escalade, you can enjoy Google-built-in technology to assist with navigation, traffic alerts, musical entertainment, and climate control. The front seat passenger can interact with a range of apps and safety features to help the driver, or they can be controlled by a solo driver with just a few taps. Both models also offer Cadillac Super Cruise, a semi-autonomous driving feature that has over 34 million miles of proven safety.

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Explore both the Escalade and the Escalade IQ by scheduling test drives at your nearest Cadillac dealership. Driving one right after another will really help you compare both options without confusion. There's something to love about both of these vehicles, and it largely depends on whether you want a gas engine or the eco-friendliness of a reliable EV. Both are fun to drive and provide the luxurious details that you've come to expect from Cadillac.