The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ is Cadillac’s electric take on its iconic full-size SUV—and choosing between the Sport 1 and Sport 2 trims comes down to how much luxury, power, and towing tech you plan to use in your day-to-day life. In this comparison, we’ll walk through the key differences—what you get in each trim, where the real value lies in each one, and which version might make more sense for your lifestyle or driving needs.
Key Takeaways
- Sport 1 is the more affordable performance-focused Escalade IQ trim.
- Sport 2 adds advanced luxury and better towing capability.
- Both trims share the same dual-motor AWD system with up to 750 hp in Velocity Max.
- The interior of Sport 2 features 16-way power, massaging front seats, memory settings, and Nouveauluxe upholstery.
- Among other upgrades, the Sport 2 also steps up on lighting and a better audio system.
What Powertrains Does the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport 1 and 2 Offer?
Both the Sport 1 and Sport 2 trims of the 2025 Escalade IQ use Cadillac’s dual-motor AWD system, offering two drive modes. It delivers a powerful 680 hp in standard mode and up to 750 hp / 785 lb-ft of torque in “Velocity Max” mode. This means that whether you pick Sport 1 or Sport 2, you'll get the same experience, with similar acceleration and power delivery.
To top it off, both versions are fully electric. One of the biggest upgrades in Sport 2 is its on-board charging: it bumps up from 11.5 kW to 19.2 kW, which makes it charge faster, whether you are at home or out and about. Whether you pick Sport 1 or Sport 2, you get full 8,000-lb towing capability. The Sport 2 offers a Smart Trailering Package that includes a trailer brake controller, a dedicated trailer-view camera, a trailering app, and blind-zone steering assist. That makes Sport 2 more capable for towing large loads or managing trailer weight safely.
Is the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport 1 Luxurious?
You can guarantee luxury with either of these Cadillacs. The Sport 1 will have everything you need to make every drive feel like a luxury cruise; the Sport 2 just adds some additional features that some drivers may need. With the Sport 1, you get a panoramic fixed glass roof, a 55-inch curved display, and ClimateSense™ five-zone climate control. You also get heated first- and second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 19-speaker AKG audio system. Moving to Sport 2, Cadillac adds even more premium touches: 16-way power front seats with massage, memory settings, and plush Nouveauluxe upholstery. You also get power open/close doors, and an immersive 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system.
What Technology Shows up in the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport 1?
This trim includes Cadillac’s signature 55-inch curved LED display. In the Sport 2 trim, the Smart Trailering Package (as mentioned), you have the additional dedicated trailering tech, but the Night Vision enhances visibility under low light, whether you are towing or not.
Should I Choose the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport 1 or Sport 2?
Luxury is a given with either of the Sports, but go with Sport 1 if you want a performance-driven Escalade IQ that delivers strong electric power, a sporty exterior, and luxury without all the bells and whistles. Choose the Sport 2 if you plan to tow, want a super-lux interior with massaging seats, or care deeply about comfort and convenience features like power doors and enhanced audio. Swing by your local Cadillac dealership to compare the Sport 1 and Sport 2 trims in person.
Ask for a demo of the Smart Trailering Package on Sport 2, and take both for a test drive to feel the difference in ride, power, and luxury at Reliable Cadillac today!