Nearly three years after introducing its ambitious Celestiq concept, Cadillac has finally brought its luxury electric flagship to market, presenting a striking $300,000 vehicle designed to recapture the brand’s iconic legacy.
At first glance, the Cadillac Celestiq is unmistakably a luxury statement, its carefully sculpted exterior turning heads wherever it travels. Sleek proportions, a sweeping silhouette, and dramatic LED lighting elements underscore its distinction as Cadillac’s flagship offering. Driving it through the busy streets of Los Angeles confirmed that the Celestiq attracts attention effortlessly.
Inside the Celestiq, handcrafted luxury abounds. Exquisite, buttery leather seats offer unmatched comfort and adjustability, while the cabin is impeccably finished. Cadillac took customization to an unprecedented level, employing advanced manufacturing techniques—115 interior parts, including elements of the steering wheel, window switches, and console décor, are produced through 3D printing.
Despite this contemporary craftsmanship, the Celestiq’s designers had to navigate complex constraints posed by the car’s sizeable battery pack. Unlike the uniform battery cells found in many electric cars—including Cadillac’s own Lyriq—the Celestiq’s modules vary in height, ranging from six to twelve inches, resulting in unequal floor heights and limiting interior storage areas. The 111 kWh battery provides around 303 miles of claimed range, yet necessitates compromises like a shallow storage compartment that barely accommodates small personal items.
On-road behavior reveals impressive engineering. Even with its considerable dimensions—longer than a two-door Chevrolet Silverado—the Celestiq proves surprisingly nimble, aided by its rear-wheel steering and advanced air suspension that deftly manages imperfect urban roadways. Handling dynamics benefit from Magnetic Ride Control, and despite mass and size, it corners confidently with flat composure thanks to active roll stabilization systems.
Performance doesn’t disappoint, either. Powered by motors generating 655 horsepower and 646 pound-feet of torque, the Celestiq surges confidently when the road opens, delivering composed yet powerful acceleration. Regenerative braking, when fully engaged, makes for satisfying efficiency, reclaiming energy and enabling near effortless one-pedal driving on twisty roads.
Technology inside the Celestiq is both lavish and forward-looking. A dramatic 55-inch digital display spans the entire width of the dashboard, providing high-resolution interfaces for both driver and front passenger. There are additional screens dedicated to luxurious climate controls, though the absence of physical buttons may frustrate some drivers craving tactile control. Massaging seats, customizable lighting accenting the cabin via a segmented glass roof with variable opacity levels, and a 38-speaker AKG audio system complete the opulent sensory experience.
However, not everything is seamless. General Motors’ choice of Google’s built-in system over Apple CarPlay and Android Auto has resulted in persistent connectivity issues. The system struggles to reliably handle phone calls, texts, and basic smartphone integration—potentially disappointing luxury-car buyers who demand ease and reliability.
Customers purchasing a Celestiq can expect a highly personalized boutique experience. Every vehicle is hand-assembled at General Motors’ Global Technical Center, affording buyers near-endless options for material choices and colors. From personalized paint schemes like the standout Kingfisher Tricoat blue to vibrant interior palettes, Celestiq ownership begins with tailored expectations, even offering each client custom concierge services throughout the entire buying process.
Cadillac plans a notably limited production run for the Celestiq. Just 25 examples are slated to roll out in 2025, with nearly all already spoken for. Future production, according to the company, will not exceed two vehicles per day, ensuring exclusivity and maintaining the handcrafted identity that the brand is actively cultivating.
While rivals such as Rolls-Royce’s Spectre EV exist at a similar luxury level, the Celestiq stands largely alone in the niche of ultra-premium American electric luxury vehicles. Though Bentley and Mercedes-Maybach offer opulent luxury, neither has fully entered the market with an exclusively battery-powered luxury sedan as Cadillac now has.
Even while minor shortcomings persist, the Celestiq EV signifies Cadillac’s earnest attempt to reclaim its former status as “Standard of the World.” With its combination of unique design, personalized craftsmanship, advanced driving dynamics, and exclusive appeal, Cadillac has certainly built an unforgettable statement vehicle.
