The 9,000-pound monster I don't want to give back
I thought: other than hotels that use SUVs like the Escalade IQL to ferry guests around, what kind of monster chooses a car like this?
TL;DR
- The 2026 electric Escalade IQL is a large, heavy, and luxurious electric SUV starting at $130,405.
- The author's initial impression was that the vehicle was a "monstrosity" due to its size, making basic tasks like driving up a driveway difficult.
- Inside, the Escalade features a 55-inch curved LED screen, personal screens for passengers, and spacious seating for seven adults.
- The vehicle is equipped with GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system and a 38-speaker AKG Studio sound system.
- Despite its size, the Escalade was found to be unexpectedly nimble and performed exceptionally well in a severe snowstorm.
- Charging proved to be a significant challenge in Tahoe due to broken or throttled charging stations, requiring a 12-mile drive to an Electrify America station.
- The author found the software acceptable but less intuitive than Tesla's, and the 'frunk' operation was frustrating.
- Ultimately, the Escalade's capability in extreme weather and its luxurious features led the author to develop an unexpected affection for the vehicle, despite its practical drawbacks.