The electric Cadillac Escalade hits the market for 2026 as the IQ. There’s also a longer version called the Escalade IQL, which is the most opulent EV SUV yet.
The Escalade has stood the test of time and continues to be one of the top choices among luxury SUVs in every possible way. This big and bold SUV typically has a strong V8 engine or a Duramax diesel with impressive low-end torque, but something new is coming. The New Escalade IQ and IQL arrive in 2026, providing us with an amazing electric alternative to the current Escalade.
Will this new Caddy be better than what’s already offered?
Electric luxury SUVs have been filling the market for the past few years. Mercedes-Benz and BMW have created lineups of EV SUVs with top-end features, but two American names stand out to put the new IQL to the test. The Tesla Model X has been part of the EV market for several years, and the Rivian R1S is a relative newcomer with an off-road bend. Does the new electric Escalade stand a chance against these two models? Let’s find out.
Which SUV has the most power?
Starting with the new Cadillac Escalade IQL, the power offered comes from an AWD electric system, which can generate up to 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque. This power is achieved in the Velocity Max drive mode, which is functional for as long as you have it enabled. Most EVs only provide maximum power for brief bursts of acceleration. When not in the Velocity Max setting, the IQL makes 680 horsepower, which is still respectable.
Turning to the Tesla Model X, in its high-performance Plaid trim, it can generate up to 1,020 horsepower from the three-electric motors. This allows for blistering acceleration, making the Model X one of the fastest and most powerful electric SUVs available.
The Rivian R1S takes things further with powertrains that feature two, three, and four electric motors to deliver increasing levels of power. The Quad-Motor version has 1,050 horsepower and 1,198 lb-ft of torque for 2025, which is an increase of 215 horsepower and 290 lb-ft over the 2024 version.
In terms of SUV capability, the Cadillac Escalade IQL holds its own against these two rivals. The IQL can pull up to 7,500 pounds, while the R1S is rated at 7,700 pounds. The Model X isn’t really made for towing but has a tow rating of 3,500 pounds for the smaller trailer you might need to take with you.
Which electric SUV has the best driving range?
The 2026 Cadillac EV doesn’t have an EPA driving range yet, but the regular IQ is quoted at 460 miles by GM. You should expect the longer IQL to have a slightly lower driving range. The massive battery and 800-volt architecture allow the electric Caddy to gain 116 miles of range during 10 minutes of charging.
The Model X provides up to 300 miles of driving range in the top Plaid trim. It does much better with less power, delivering up to 335 miles of range for the AWD model, but these figures fall short of the Cadillac numbers by quite a bit.
The R1S also falls behind the electric Escalade, offering up to 410 miles of driving range with the Max Pack battery. When equipped with the Standard Pack battery, this SUV is only good for 270 miles of driving range in the Dual Motor model.
Big comfort in the largest SUV
The new 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQL is the largest of the three electric SUVs compared here. It’s also the most opulent and luxurious. While it might not have the stark and sterile interior style of the Model S or the rugged nature of the R1S, the IQL brings futuristic electronics to the dashboard along with three rows of comfortable seats.
The dashboard in every IQ model has a 55-inch display that spans the entire distance between the front pillars, giving drivers the most screen space available. Once you’re done looking at the screens, you’ll find leather-wrapped luxury in the seats, polished aluminum access, and tons of ways to relax and enjoy the ride.
The new Escalade IQL is four inches longer than the standard IQ model, adding more legroom for third-row passengers. It also has an additional inch of headroom for these rear-seat occupants. You’ll also find a large 12-cubic-foot frunk where the engine would normally reside, giving you a little extra storage for things you need to take with you.
Does the power, capability, and luxury qualities of the new Escalade IQL put it above the Model X and R1S for you?
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