Cadillac continues to revolutionize the luxury SUV market with the introduction of the all-electric 2026 ESCALADE IQL. Designed to enhance passenger comfort and cargo capacity, the ESCALADE IQL builds on the success of the ESCALADE IQ while maintaining the segment-leading features that have defined the Escalade franchise.
John Roth, Vice President of Global Cadillac, highlighted the importance of this new addition, stating, “Escalade has been the best-selling luxury full-size SUV in North America since 2014. The ESCALADE IQL is an important addition to the Escalade franchise and the Cadillac portfolio.”
Design and Interior Features
The ESCALADE IQL features a sophisticated and elongated silhouette that maximizes third-row passenger space and rear storage. A notable addition is the eTrunk, providing 12.2 cubic feet of secure storage under the hood. Inside, the vehicle boasts premium materials, an available Executive Second Row package, and enhanced third-row accommodations, offering 4.4 inches more legroom and an extra inch of headroom compared to the ESCALADE IQ.
The Executive Second Row package enhances luxury with stowable tray tables, 12.6-inch diagonal personal screens, a rear command center, dual wireless phone charging pads, and massaging, heated, and ventilated seats with 14-way power adjustment and headrest speakers.
Advanced Technology
Continuing Cadillac’s tradition of innovation, the ESCALADE IQL features state-of-the-art technology, including:
- A 55-inch curved pillar-to-pillar display offering voice control, navigation, an app store, and dedicated ESCALADE IQL graphics.
- Seating for up to seven passengers with a power-folding third row for expanded storage.
- An AKG Studio 21-speaker audio system, with an available 42-speaker configuration.
- Dolby Atmos® sound technology for a premium in-cabin audio experience.
- Standard Super Cruise™ hands-free driver assistance technology.
- 5G Wi-Fi® hotspot capability and comprehensive OnStar safety services.
- Vehicle-to-home (V2H) bidirectional charging, allowing energy transfer to a properly equipped home.
Performance and Range
The ESCALADE IQL is powered by a 24-module GM battery, delivering up to an estimated 460-mile range. With DC fast charging, customers can gain up to 116 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Performance figures include:
- 750 hp and 785 lb-ft of torque (with Velocity Max mode)
- 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.7 seconds
- Maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs
- Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 and Air Ride Adaptive suspension for enhanced driving dynamics
- Standard 24-inch wheels with 35-inch tires
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 ESCALADE IQL will be available in four trims – Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury, and Premium Sport. Pricing starts at $132,695, including the destination freight charge but excluding taxes and dealer fees. Production is set to begin in mid-2025 at General Motors’ Factory ZERO plant in Detroit.
With more than 25 years of dominance in the full-size luxury SUV market and over 1 million units sold globally, the Cadillac Escalade franchise continues to set the standard. Alongside the 2025 all-electric ESCALADE IQ and the refreshed 2025 Escalade, the introduction of the ESCALADE IQL further solidifies Cadillac’s strong presence in the evolving luxury EV landscape.
