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Cadillac Escalade IQ vs Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Which is Better?
The iconic Cadillac Escalade is set to embrace electric power with the upcoming 750-hp Escalade IQ arriving in summer 2024, expanding GM’s lineup of luxurious EVs alongside the Lyriq crossover and upcoming Celestiq sedan. This move signifies a departure from the gas-powered Escalade V, known for its 682-hp supercharged V-8 engine. The all-electric Escalade IQ aims for a 450-mile range, surpassing the GMC Hummer SUV and Silverado EV on the shared platform. On the other hand, Mercedes-Benz offers the all-electric EQS as an SUV counterpart to their EQS luxury sedan, sharing a platform and boasting the spaciousness of a third row for up to seven passengers. Although featuring the impressive 56-inch Hyperscreen, the EQS lineup includes the 355-hp EQS450+ with 305 miles of range and the 536-hp EQS580 with 285 miles of range.
| Cadillac Escalade IQ | Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV | |
| Dimensions | 224.3 in x 85.3 in x 76.1 in | 201.8 x 77.1 x 67.6 in |
| Motor | permanent-magnet AC | permanent-magnet AC |
| Horsepower | 750 hp | 536 hp |
| Torque | 785 lb-ft | 633 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | < 5.0 sec | 4.2–6.2 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | NA | 13.5–15.5 sec |
| Top-Speed | 140 mph | 130 mph |
Cadillac Escalade IQ
Motor & Performance
With all-wheel drive and an impressive power output of 750 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque. The Escalade IQ takes the lead. This commanding performance is particularly evident in the Velocity Max drive mode. Where sustained peak power stands out, differing from the momentary boost modes found in other electric vehicles. Although Cadillac has not yet revealed specific details. They emphasize that the Escalade IQ is projected to surpass 650 horsepower under typical driving conditions. As the EPA has yet to certify the driving range for this model. GM sets its sights on an ambitious goal of covering 450 miles on a single charge. Further highlighting its dedication to pushing boundaries in electric vehicle capabilities.
Price & MIleage
While the exact pricing remains undisclosed, taking cues from the current gas-powered Escalade’s base price of around $83,000. It’s reasonable to expect that the incorporation of advanced electric technology could result in an Escalade equipped with an assortment of standard features pushing its initial cost into the three-digit range. Envisage ample wheel size, capacious storage, and an abundance of leather appointments. The IQ variant, commencing at $99,000, marks the starting point. Although the EPA hasn’t formally revealed the Escalade IQ’s gasoline-equivalent miles per gallon. A rough estimate of approximately 59 MPGe on highways can be deduced from the IQ’s substantial 200 kWh usable battery capacity and its projected maximum driving range.
Acceleration & Features
Sporting a remarkable sub-five-second acceleration from 0 to 60 mph. The all-electric Escalade IQ directly confronts its rival, the gas-powered 682-hp Escalade V. Which achieves the same speed in just 4.3 seconds. Notably, the Escalade IQ features a generous 66-inch digital display on its dashboard. Operating on a Google-endorsed system; however, it deliberately excludes Apple CarPlay. This decision falls in line with GM’s 2023 strategy to bolster seamless integration by eliminating Apple CarPlay from its EV lineup.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
Motor & Performance
The EQS SUV takes the essence of the EQS sedan. Offering elevated seating and enhanced interior space while boasting similar yet not completely identical electric powertrains. The rear-wheel-drive EQS450+ showcases a 335-hp electric motor. Whereas the EQS580 stands out with a robust 536 horsepower and 633 pound-feet of torque, utilizing both front and rear electric motors for all-wheel drive. Notably, the EQS SUV is equipped with a standard adjustable air suspension and a rear-axle steering system. Which collectively contribute to its unexpectedly agile performance.
Price & Mileage
While the initial cost of an EQS SUV is surprisingly comparable to that of the EQS sedan. It’s doubtful that many customers will opt for the base EQS450+ model, especially considering the more potent EQS580 4Matic variants that are on offer. Even so, the EQS450+ still provides an array of sought-after standard features. Such as a Burmester sound system, rear-axle steering, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and more. For our recommendation, we suggest considering the EQS580 4Matic Exclusive model. Equipped with all-wheel drive and upscale features like a head-up display, four-zone automatic climate control, and massaging front seats. The 2023 EQS SUV series has varying EPA ratings depending on the powertrain configuration. The EQS450+ achieves 85 MPGe combined, the 4Matic all-wheel-drive version achieves 78 MPGe, and the EQS580 boasts a combined EPA rating of 77 MPGe.
Acceleration & Features
In sharp contrast to its sedan counterpart. The SUV variant introduces an Off-Road drive mode that raises suspension and alters motor behavior. During our tests, we noted significantly livelier acceleration, projecting a swift 4.2-second dash to reach 60 mph for the EQS580 model. The EQS SUV offers the option to equip the mesmerizing 56-inch Hyperscreen from Mercedes. An expansive display spanning the dashboard’s entire width for a truly captivating experience. This setup includes a dominant 17.7-inch touchscreen responsible for infotainment functions and an additional 12.3-inch touchscreen placed in front of the passenger. Serving as the digital gauge cluster’s home. The allure of the glass-covered dashboard undoubtedly appeals to buyers, yet it’s hard not to feel a sense of loss due to the scarcity of tangible buttons and switches. For those opting out of the Hyperscreen, digital gauges and a 12.8-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen remain part of the package.