The Cadillac SUV Escalade IQ
Reimagined as a full-size luxury pickup
Unveiling the public’s response to this high-end truck
The Cadillac Escalade EXT, introduced in 2001 as a pickup variant of the iconic Escalade SUV, blended luxury and utility in a bold new way. With a cargo bed seamlessly integrated behind the C-pillar, the EXT retained the upscale look of its SUV counterpart. However, limited demand for luxury pickups led to its discontinuation after the third generation, with the model disappearing from Cadillac’s lineup after 2013.
Fast forward to today, and the U.S. pickup truck market has seen a dramatic surge, particularly in the premium segment. Consumers are now willing to pay top dollar for high-end trucks, reigniting discussions about a potential return of the Escalade EXT.
A Bold Concept: Escalade IQ Pickup
A Fusion of Cadillac Luxury and GMC Engineering
Recently, a striking rendering of an electric Cadillac pickup truck has been making waves online. Created by virtual designer Kelsonik, the concept imagines a futuristic Escalade IQ pickup built on the same platform as GMC’s Sierra Denali EV. Though not an official Cadillac project, the rendering has sparked significant interest and speculation about the brand’s future direction.
The concept draws from the BT1 platform, shared by GM’s large trucks and SUVs, including the Sierra Denali EV and the Escalade IQ. Kelsonik’s vision retains the Escalade IQ’s sleek front-end design, including its vertical daytime running lights and shield-shaped panel grille, while incorporating a traditional pickup bed. The result is a head-turning mix of luxury aesthetics and rugged utility.
Design Highlights: A Blend of Elegance and Power
The front features vertical daytime running lights and a large shield-shaped radiator grille. Inside the grille, a unique lighting pattern catches the eye. Diagonal and horizontal lines connect the grille pattern, and the Cadillac logo lights up together, creating a futuristic atmosphere. In addition, the black panel grille shows off its sophistication.
The grille shows its presence by filling the front with a unique trapezoidal layout. A wide air intake is placed on the bumper side to create a sporty atmosphere. Like the grille and headlamps, the bumper extends in a trapezoidal shape to complete the design unity and balanced appearance. Design elements were added with black high-gloss and silver-colored garnish.
Luxury Pickups: A Growing Market Segment
From the side, the concept remains rooted in the boxy, practical form of the Sierra Denali EV. Its angular wheel arches, straight character lines, and cladding all reflect classic pickup styling, while blacked-out window pillars contrast the body color. The spacious cargo bed rounds out the design, giving the concept of actual pickup functionality.
Critics of the Sierra Denali EV have pointed out its high starting price—around $70,000—and its somewhat uninspired design. The Escalade IQ-inspired concept, however, has received glowing feedback from American consumers, many of whom see its luxury styling as a significant upgrade. By applying Cadillac’s design elements, the rendering transforms the pickup into a more premium product that feels worthy of its price tag.
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