Nearly four years after commencing production of the fifth-generation Cadillac Escalade at the Arlington factory in Texas, the luxury brand, under GM’s ownership, is starting on a mid-cycle refresh. Spotted during an unexpected lunch break at a fast-food joint in the United States, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade-V prototype surprised onlookers by appearing fully exposed.
The team behind its development seemingly opted to forego the typical heavy camouflage, perhaps aiming to fly under the radar. However, eagle-eyed photographers managed to capture images of its exterior and upgraded interior.
At first glance, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade-V showcases a lighting signature reminiscent of the Escalade IQ, an unrelated EV model. Its split-headlamp design, with primary clusters positioned below ultra-thin LED DRLs beneath the hood, catches the eye. The grille has been refreshed, featuring a taller, narrower central air intake.
While changes at the rear are less pronounced, the bumper and diffuser appear unchanged, with the quad tailpipes retaining their shape. However, subtle updates include a refreshed trim above the tailgate and revised taillamp graphics.
Inside, the Escalade’s curved OLED display, already impressive, receives a significant upgrade. The mid-cycle refresh introduces a massive screen stretching from pillar to pillar, dominating the updated dashboard. Additionally, a secondary display for controlling the HVAC system, akin to the Escalade IQ, is positioned below.
Regarding powertrain upgrades, details are scarce. However, it’s speculated that the facelifted Cadillac Escalade-V will retain its current engine’s torque and output. Utilizing the same motor as the CT5-V Blackwing, the supercharged V8 delivers 653 pound-feet of torque and 682 horsepower, propelling the Escalade-V from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
Production of the refreshed Escalade series, including the potent Escalade-V, is expected to commence in the second half of the year. With an imminent revealing anticipation, enthusiasts eagerly await the arrival of this updated luxury SUV at dealerships nationwide. As for pricing, a slight increase is anticipated, reflecting the added features and enhancements.