Alright, let’s dive into the latest from Cadillac. As your automotive editor, I’ve got the inside scoop on their newest electric luxury beast. Get ready for the 2026 ESCALADE IQL!
The Cadillac Escalade Gets Even Bigger and Goes Electric
Cadillac is continuing to expand its top-selling Escalade lineup, and the big news is the introduction of the all-electric 2026 Cadillac ESCALADE IQL. This isn’t just a standard Escalade with an electric motor; it’s an extension of the electric ESCALADE IQ, specifically designed for customers who need even more space. According to John Roth, vice president, Global Cadillac, the IQL is an “important addition” to both the Escalade range and the overall Cadillac portfolio, ensuring customers have options no matter their propulsion preference.
The standard Escalade has been North America’s best-selling luxury full-size SUV since 2014, and the addition of electric variants like the IQ and IQL, alongside the refreshed gasoline model, positions the franchise strongly for the future.
Production for the ESCALADE IQL is set to begin in mid-2025 at General Motors’ Factory ZERO plant in Detroit. It will be available globally, including in the U.S. and Canada.
Design: Longer Silhouette, More Space
Visually, the ESCALADE IQL stands out with a commanding design and a sophisticated, longer silhouette compared to the ESCALADE IQ. This extended profile isn’t just for looks; it’s specifically engineered to maximize spaciousness, particularly for passengers in all three rows. It also allows for additional rear storage.
Adding to the cargo options, there’s a large eTrunk compartment under the hood, providing an extra 12.2 cubic feet of secure storage. Craig Sass of Cadillac Design notes that the IQL builds on the iconic Escalade DNA, offering a commanding profile with that crucial additional cargo capacity.
Interior & Tech: Luxury Meets Innovation
Step inside the ESCALADE IQL, and you’ll find the same tech-forward and luxurious accommodations found in the ESCALADE IQ. A centerpiece of the cabin experience is the curved pillar-to-pillar 55-inch total diagonal display, offering an immersive infotainment system with features like voice control, navigation, an app store, and unique ESCALADE IQL graphics.
For those in the second row, there’s an available Executive Second Row package that truly elevates the experience. This package includes:
•Stowable tray tables
•12.6-inch-diagonal personal screens
•A rear command center
•Dual wireless phone charging pads
•Massaging, heating, and ventilated seats with 14-way power adjustment and headrest speakers
Crucially, the longer design significantly benefits third-row passengers. They get more than 4 inches of additional legroom (36.7 inches vs. 32.3 inches in the IQ) and an extra inch of headroom (38.2 inches vs. 37.2 inches in the IQ), making seating throughout the cabin more comfortable. The IQL offers seating for up to seven total passengers, with a power-folding third row that folds flat for increased storage space.
Audio is handled by a standard AKG Studio 21-speaker system. For audiophiles, an available AKG Studio Reference system bumps the count to 38 speakers, or a massive 42 speakers when combined with the Executive Second Row package. The system supports Dolby Atmos for enhanced depth and clarity.
Staying connected is easy with available 5G Wi-Fi hotspot capability via OnStar, along with a suite of safety and connected services for peace of mind. Passenger entertainment includes HD streaming and browser compatibility. The IQL is also equipped with vehicle-to-home (V2H) bidirectional charging capabilities, allowing energy transfer between the vehicle and a properly equipped home when paired with the GM Energy V2H Bundle.
Standard technology includes Super Cruise driver assistance technology on all trims, which is the industry’s first hands-free system, with three years of an OnStar Super Cruise plan included.
Performance: Power and Range
The ESCALADE IQL delivers on both power and range thanks to its EV-specific architecture. It utilizes a 24-module GM battery with a 205 kWh capacity. Cadillac estimates the range to be up to 460 miles on a full charge.
When it’s time to charge, you can expect to add up to 116 miles of range in 10 minutes at a public DC Fast Charging station. For home charging, a 240V (7.7 kW) connection can add approximately 15 miles of range per hour, while a professionally installed 240V (19.2 kW AC) station can add around 36 miles of range per hour.
The IQL boasts impressive performance figures, including 750 hp and 785 lb-ft of torque with the driver-selectable Velocity Max mode. This enables a quick 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds (also with Velocity Max). It also offers a Cadillac-estimated maximum towing capacity of 7500 lbs.
Cadillac’s ride and handling philosophy, “Isolated Precision,” aims for a quiet, smooth, and effortless driving experience while maintaining a strong connection to the road. The IQL features Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 and Air Ride Adaptive suspension to help isolate passengers from rough surfaces while providing precise steering. It’s built with independent front and rear suspension and rides on large 24-inch wheels with 35-inch tires (22-inch wheels are also available).
Practicality: Space and Capability
The core appeal of the IQL is its enhanced practicality. Beyond the improved third-row space and eTrunk, the cargo volume is significant. You get 24.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a massive 125.2 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. This is on top of the 12.2 cubic feet in the eTrunk. The total length of the vehicle is 228.5 inches.
Pricing & Availability
The 2026 Cadillac ESCALADE IQL will be offered in four trims: Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury, and Premium Sport. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts at $132,695, which includes the destination freight charge but excludes tax, title, and dealer fees. Remember, the dealer sets the final price.
With its expanded size, powerful electric performance, luxurious interior, and advanced technology, the ESCALADE IQL looks ready to continue the Escalade’s legacy as a leader in the full-size luxury SUV segment.
