General Motors (GM) has consistently held a dominant position in the U.S. automotive market. In 2024, GM’s performance was particularly impressive, with the company achieving a four-percent sales surge, totaling over 2.7 million vehicle deliveries. A key driver behind this success was the strong performance of its luxury division, Cadillac. Cadillac, in particular, saw an impressive nine percent increase in sales, with significant contributions from its flagship model, the Escalade, and the all-electric Lyriq crossover.
The key to Cadillac’s success has been its ability to deliver products that resonate with luxury consumers. As GM continues to adapt to consumer demand, Cadillac’s offerings, particularly in the luxury SUV segment, have proven to be a major draw. GM’s ability to iron out issues with the Lyriq EV and provide a comprehensive set of updates for the Escalade ensured that Cadillac remained a top contender in the luxury automotive market.
Cadillac Escalade’s Role in GM’s Success
The Escalade is one of Cadillac’s most iconic models, long recognized for its premium features, luxury, and size. In 2024, Cadillac focused on refining the Escalade with substantial updates for the 2025 model year. The changes to the Escalade were aimed at enhancing its design, performance, and technological features, ensuring that it remained at the forefront of the luxury SUV market.
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, unveiled in the summer of 2024, underwent a comprehensive refresh, featuring a new interior and exterior design. One of the major updates included the adoption of design cues from the Escalade IQ, an electric version of the Escalade, which brought about a reimagined front fascia. This transformation was not only cosmetic, but it also brought a fresh sense of modernity to the luxury SUV.
The 2025 Escalade also offered an array of customization options, including a larger set of 24-inch wheels and a trio of new exterior colors—Aegean Stone, Deep Sea Metallic, and Latte Metallic. The interior received a tech-forward update with a curved, pillar-to-pillar 55-inch display that replaced the traditional dashboard setup, offering an unparalleled level of technological sophistication. Cadillac also introduced new color schemes for the interior, including Renaissance Red, Jet Black, and Sheer Gray, all of which elevated the luxury feel of the vehicle.
Key Features of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade
- Exterior Updates:
- Adoption of design elements from the Escalade IQ, particularly the new front fascia
- Larger 24-inch optional wheels
- Three new color options: Aegean Stone, Deep Sea Metallic, and Latte Metallic
- Customization with a variety of exterior and interior options to suit different buyer preferences
- Interior Enhancements:
- A stunning 55-inch curved “pillar-to-pillar” display for a futuristic and high-tech feel
- New interior color palette options such as Renaissance Red, Jet Black, and Sheer Gray
- Performance & Engine Updates:
- The continued availability of powerful engine options, including a 6.2-liter V8 engine for the Escalade and Escalade ESV models
- Availability of both RWD and AWD configurations
These upgrades and improvements were designed to appeal to luxury buyers who seek a perfect blend of advanced technology, cutting-edge design, and powerful performance. Cadillac’s focus on innovation has allowed the Escalade to maintain its status as a top-tier luxury SUV.
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Pricing and Model Variants of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade
The updated 2025 Cadillac Escalade comes with a higher starting price compared to its predecessor. While the 2024 model’s base price started at $81,895, the refreshed 2025 Escalade now has a base price of $89,590. This increase reflects the additional features, advanced technology, and design updates that have been incorporated into the vehicle.
For customers who prefer a larger model, the 2025 Escalade ESV variant is also available, offering more space for passengers and cargo.
| Model Variant | Base Price (USD) | Engine Options | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Escalade (Standard) | $89,590 | 6.2-liter V8 | 10-speed automatic |
| 2025 Escalade ESV RWD | $92,590 | 6.2-liter V8 | 10-speed automatic |
| 2025 Escalade ESV AWD | $95,590 | 6.2-liter V8 | 10-speed automatic |
The Escalade ESV is available in both RWD and AWD configurations. The ESV version, which features a longer wheelbase than the standard Escalade, is perfect for buyers looking for more space and enhanced luxury.
For those who want even more space and luxury, the Escalade ESV variant is available. The ESV is a stretched version of the Escalade, offering additional passenger and cargo space. The base RWD model with the 6.2-liter V8 engine and ten-speed automatic transmission starts at $92,590, while the AWD model of the Escalade ESV is priced at $95,590.
Key Pricing Information:
- Base Model (RWD): $89,590
- Escalade ESV (RWD): $92,590
- Escalade ESV (AWD): $95,590
Customization and Special Features for the 2025 Escalade
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade comes with several customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles to match their unique tastes. In terms of color options, buyers can choose from a range of hues, though it’s important to note that some color choices come with an added cost.
- Standard Color Options:
- Black Raven (Free)
- Premium Color Options (Additional Costs):
- Crystal White Tricoat
- Aegean Stone
- Deep Sea Metallic
- Latte Metallic
Cadillac Escalade’s Aftermarket Customization: The Forgiato Wheels
An interesting aspect of the 2025 Escalade’s customization comes from the aftermarket world. The renowned custom-forged wheel manufacturer, Forgiato Designs, based in Los Angeles, has developed a unique set of wheels for the 2025 Escalade. Known for its controversial yet eye-catching designs, Forgiato’s wheels have become a popular choice among luxury car owners looking to enhance the appearance of their vehicles.
The particular set of wheels featured on the 2025 Cadillac Escalade is a massive 30-inch set of Forgiato wheels paired with ultra-skinny low-profile tires. This customization, which was completed by Coast 2 Coast Customs in Plantation, Florida, may be the very first 2025 Escalade build of its kind in the world. The oversized wheels give the Escalade a high-riding, imposing look, adding an extra layer of personality to an already luxurious vehicle.
The Forgiato Wheels Custom Build:
- Wheel Size: 30-inch Forgiato custom-forged wheels
- Tire Type: Ultra-skinny low-profile tires
- Vehicle Model: 2025 Cadillac Escalade ESV
This customization demonstrates Cadillac’s embrace of the aftermarket world, offering its buyers a chance to stand out even more. The large wheel size and bold design of the Forgiato wheels perfectly complement the Escalade’s already aggressive, high-end styling.
The custom-built 2025 Escalade ESV features ultra-skinny low-profile tires that are mounted on the massive 30-inch Forgiato wheels. This custom modification gives the vehicle an imposing stance, with the large wheels providing an air of dominance that matches the Escalade’s bold presence on the road. The black-and-white design of the vehicle, featuring a contrasting black-and-white color palette, adds an extra layer of uniqueness to this custom build.
While some might argue that the wheel size and fitment might be too extreme, the unique design undoubtedly makes a statement. Whether or not the bold new look fits the 2025 Escalade’s overall styling depends on individual preferences. However, there is no denying that this custom build represents a level of luxury and individuality that is often sought after by high-end automotive enthusiasts.
Cadillac Escalade and Its Growing Popularity in the Luxury SUV Market
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade is positioned to continue the brand’s dominance in the luxury SUV market. The updates to the vehicle’s design, technology, and performance have made it even more appealing to buyers who demand the very best in luxury, comfort, and innovation. Cadillac’s commitment to providing cutting-edge features, such as the 55-inch curved display and new exterior designs, ensures that the Escalade remains a top choice for those looking to make a statement on the road.
With its premium pricing, top-of-the-line features, and sleek, modern design, the 2025 Escalade is set to continue its legacy as one of the most iconic and desirable luxury SUVs in the market.
Conclusion: Will the Custom Build Be the New Standard?
As the 2025 Cadillac Escalade continues to capture the attention of luxury SUV buyers, the custom builds made possible through aftermarket additions like the Forgiato wheels show how personalization plays an increasingly important role in the luxury car market. These customizations allow buyers to take an already impressive vehicle and make it even more unique.
Whether the massive 30-inch wheels will become a standard feature in Escalade builds remains to be seen. However, the growing trend toward customization in luxury vehicles shows that more and more buyers are looking to stand out in a crowded market. Cadillac’s ability to offer such options while still maintaining its core identity of luxury, style, and performance speaks to the brand’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of today’s automotive consumer.
FAQs
What are the key updates for the 2025 Cadillac Escalade?
The 2025 Escalade features a refreshed front fascia, larger wheels, a 55-inch curved display, and new color options, along with enhanced performance and luxury features.
What is the price of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade?
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade starts at $89,590, while the Escalade ESV models are priced from $92,590 for the RWD version to $95,590 for the AWD variant.
Can I customize my 2025 Cadillac Escalade with Forgiato wheels?
Yes, the 2025 Escalade can be customized with Forgiato’s 30-inch custom-forged wheels, providing a high-end, unique look, and enhancing the vehicle’s luxury and styling.