The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Luxury 1 and Luxury 2 are Cadillac’s flagship electric SUVs. They are well-known for combining cutting-edge EV performance with high-end luxury that is tied with the Cadillac brand. When it comes to the Cadillac Luxury 1 versus Luxury 2, there is a lot in common between the two: in terms of the engine and safety features, you’re going to get the best Cadillac has to offer either way. However, if you are considering upgrades, understanding the differences between Luxury 1 and Luxury 2 will help you choose the model that best suits your driving style and lifestyle needs.
Key Takeaways:
- The Luxury 2 trim adds more premium comfort and tech over Luxury 1—including massage seats, 36-speaker audio, and power doors.
- Charging significantly improves from 11.5 kW onboard in Luxury 1 to 19.2 kW in Luxury 2.
- There is an upgraded, high-quality audio system in the Luxury 2.
- Smart towing features like the Smart Trailering Package and Night Vision are standard on Luxury 2.
How Much Horsepower Does the 2025 Cadillac Escalade Luxury 1 Have?
Both the Luxury 1 and Luxury 2 trims of the Escalade IQ share the same dual-motor AWD setup, offering up to 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque in their top-performance mode. According to Car and Driver, that means you get the same EV and acceleration—Luxury 2 doesn't change how quickly it can launch or how much torque it delivers. Remember, these Cadillacs are electric, but on the Luxury, you aren’t sacrificing drive time for power, especially on the Luxury 2 with the upgraded battery. One of the most practical upgrades in Luxury 2 is the on-board charger: Luxury 1 uses an 11.5 kW unit, while Luxury 2 steps up to a 19.2 kW charger, which means faster Level 2 charging sessions. This is especially useful if you want more charging flexibility at home or on longer trips.
What Technology Improvements Are Seen in the 2025 Cadillac Escalade Luxury 2?
One of the more notable improvements, Luxury 2 steps up to an AKG Studio Reference 36-speaker audio system, a major upgrade over the 19-speaker setup in Luxury 1. The high-quality, surround-sound feel of the audio system is something you have to experience for yourself. It also keeps the massive 55″ curved LED display and all of the advanced driver-tech like Super Cruise, for improved hands-free driving. Luxury 1 features smart lighting with a 7-module adaptive headlamp system and large 24″ wheels. However, the Luxury 2 upgrades to slim-line vertical LED headlamps, which give it a more futuristic feel and look.
What Features Are Seen In the 2025 Cadillac Escalade Luxury 1?
Luxury 1 comes with the basics for a luxury experience, with a panoramic fixed-glass sunroof, AutoSense power liftgate, heated seats in the first two rows, a heated steering wheel, and a 12-way power front seat, allowing the driver to get comfortable in any way that suits them. It also has a 5-zone ClimateSense for comfort and a 55-inch curved display. Luxury 2 adds a luxury boost: 16-way power front seats with massage, memory settings, and an upgraded seat trim for a premium feel. You also get Night Vision thermal imaging, power open/close doors, and a Smart Trailering Package with built-in trailer brake control and a trailering app, to give you control inside or outside the car.
What is So Special About the 2025 Cadillac Escalade Luxury 2?
One of the biggest selling points for the Luxury 2 is the upgrade to the onboard charger from the 11.5 kW in the Luxury 1 to the 19.2 kW in the Luxury 2. This faster charging means less time plugged in at home or public stations — a meaningful convenience for an EV this size. That being said, it comes with a price jump of about $20,000.
With the Luxury 1, you have an easier entry point with outstanding features. If you’re looking to add better charging and luxury features to your drive, come test drive the Luxury 2 at Reliable Cadillac to see what all the excitement is about.