Cadillac’s Escalade lineup embodies American excess: massive SUVs with supercar-level power. A recent Edmunds drag race pitted the gasoline-powered Escalade-V against its electric sibling, the Escalade IQ, to see which reigns supreme. The results highlight the trade-offs between instant torque and sheer mass in these high-performance behemoths.
Powertrain Differences
The Escalade-V boasts a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 producing 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque, channeled through a 10-speed automatic transmission. In contrast, the Escalade IQ uses dual electric motors and a 212 kWh battery, delivering 680 hp (up to 750 hp in Velocity Max mode) and 615 lb-ft (834 Nm) of torque.
The Weight Problem
Weight is the critical factor. The V weighs around 6,300 lbs, while the IQ tips the scales at a staggering 9,100 lbs – making it one of the heaviest passenger vehicles available. While electric torque can initially overcome this disadvantage, physics ultimately prevails. The U-drag format, involving hard acceleration, braking, and a tight turn, exposes how each SUV manages its weight.
Race Results
The first race saw the V8-powered Escalade-V get an early jump. However, transmission hesitation after the U-turn allowed the electric IQ to surge ahead, winning by several lengths. In the second round, the IQ had the better launch, but the V regained ground during braking. The race ended neck-and-neck, with the V narrowly edging out the IQ at the finish line.
“The Escalade IQ’s instant torque can mask its weight initially, but the V8’s superior transmission and lighter build ultimately give it an edge in sustained performance.”
The race demonstrates that while electric power offers immediate acceleration, it struggles against the V8’s more refined powertrain in a dynamic course. Despite the IQ’s higher peak power in Velocity Max mode, the V8’s lighter weight and better gearing proved decisive.
The Escalade IQ’s weight makes it a compelling vehicle in a straight line, but the V8-powered Escalade-V remains the quicker overall performer in a demanding U-drag test.
