2025 Cadillac Escalade Gets Huge Wheels and Screen, Loses Diesel
Following the lead of the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, the more luxurious Cadillac Escalade is getting a significant mid-cycle update for 2025. The first units will roll off the line in Arlington, Texas before the end of this year.
Cadillac’s full-size SUV lineup will once again offer six trim levels including Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury Platinum, Sport Platinum and V-Series, all of which are available in a long-wheelbase body style (Escalade ESV).
- Also: 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ: Loads of Electric Horsepower and Range, Hummer Tech
- Also: 2023 Cadillac Escalade-V Arrives With 682 Horsepower, Awesome V-Mode
Inspired by Cadillac EVs
Designers chose to refresh the front end by moving the functional lighting elements from a horizontal to vertical arrangement and incorporating advanced lighting technology from the fully electric 2025 Escalade IQ. Meanwhile, the standard illuminated front crest is borrowed from the Lyriq and Celestiq. Ditto for the illuminated grille surround on V-Series and Premium Luxury Platinum models.
For the first time ever, the Escalade will offer 24-inch wheels—because why not? Customers will also have a choice of three new exterior colours including Aegean Stone (deep green grey), Deep Sea Metallic (blue with a hint of gold) and Latte Metallic (light bronze).
Welcome Aboard!
On select 2025 Cadillac Escalade models, the doors will open and close automatically at the push of a button. If activated, the driver’s door will automatically open upon approaching the vehicle with the key fob—no touch necessary. How nice.
Once inside, expect to have an eyeful with two new interior packages (one in stunning Renaissance Red trim), but more importantly the new 55-inch curved display that stretches from pillar to pillar. It consists of a 35-inch driver information display and a 20-inch passenger-side screen for navigation and entertainment. It’s just like the interface in the aforementioned Escalade IQ, except that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are still available.
The steering wheel has been revised and the HVAC controls now go through a digital panel set up at a 45-degree angle on the console. That will require some getting used to, for sure. Ambient lighting is split into two zones and configurable in 126 different colours. Additionally, the Escalade-V receives an exclusive, performance-focused interior combining genuine carbon fibre with Jet Black leather and uniquely quilted and perforated seats.
Diesel is Dead
While the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban are getting a more powerful diesel engine, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade no longer offers one as demand simply wasn’t strong enough. It used to be available only in base Luxury trim, so no big loss.
That leaves customers with a naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 producing 420 horsepower, while those who opt for the almighty Escalade-V benefit from a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 that cranks out 682 horsepower. Fuel consumption ratings have yet to be posted but should remain essentially unchanged at a combined 15 L/100 km and 18.6 L/100 km, respectively.
Pricing for the 2025 Cadillac Escalade will be announced closer to launch early next year. Expect some notable hikes. The outgoing model ranges from $109,899-$200,899 before freight, PDI and the federal luxury tax.