Cadillac Celestiq EV Review A $360000 Bespoke Luxury Electric Vehicle

Nearly three years after unveiling its concept, General Motors has launched the Cadillac Celestiq, a $360,000 flagship electric vehicle that combines bespoke luxury with advanced technology. This EV is designed to reestablish Cadillac as the “Standard of the World” by offering a unique blend of craftsmanship, performance, and innovation.

Inside, the Celestiq impresses with buttery leather seats that adjust in multiple ways, and a fit and finish reminiscent of a high-end watch. Remarkably, 115 components, including parts of the steering wheel and console, are 3D printed, showcasing GM’s commitment to bespoke manufacturing without compromise.

The battery design posed challenges due to non-uniform module sizes, resulting in a 111 kWh battery pack that delivers a 303-mile range. This configuration limits storage space, particularly in the center console, but enables the vehicle’s impressive performance specs.

Driving the Celestiq around Los Angeles reveals its commanding presence and graceful design, highlighted by a distinctive LED light signature and sculpted bodywork. Despite its large size, features like rear steering and Magnetic Ride Control provide nimble handling and a smooth ride, even on rough city streets.

Performance is robust with 655 horsepower and 646 pound-feet of torque, complemented by active roll control and brake regeneration that enhances driving efficiency and control on curvy roads. The advanced Dolby Atmos sound system with 38 AKG speakers enriches the in-car experience further.

GM’s Super Cruise driver assistance system allows hands-free driving in traffic, adding to the vehicle’s luxury and convenience. However, the infotainment system’s smartphone integration, particularly with iPhones, suffers from connectivity issues that can frustrate users expecting seamless functionality.

The Celestiq’s interior features a stunning 55-inch wide dashboard display, with separate screens for passengers and climate controls. While some traditional controls like physical HVAC buttons are absent, the customizable glass roof and massaging seats enhance passenger comfort and personalization.

Each Celestiq is hand-built at GM’s Global Technical Center in Michigan, offering buyers a bespoke experience including personalized color and material selection, supported by a dedicated concierge service that caters to every detail of the ownership journey.

The Celestiq occupies a rarefied space in the ultra-luxury electric vehicle market, competing primarily with the Rolls-Royce Spectre EV. With limited production capped at fewer than two vehicles per day, the Celestiq is an exclusive offering for discerning customers seeking a blend of cutting-edge EV technology and handcrafted luxury.

The Cadillac Celestiq exemplifies how bespoke manufacturing, advanced battery engineering, and sophisticated driver assistance can combine to create a flagship EV that challenges traditional luxury standards. While some tech integration issues remain, its overall design and performance position it as a significant milestone in the evolution of electric luxury vehicles.