After nearly three years since the concept of the Cadillac Celestiq EV was first revealed, General Motors has finally introduced the production model: a stunning electric vehicle priced at $360,000, designed to exude luxury and attract attention on the streets.
But the question remains: can this custom-built electric vehicle help Cadillac reclaim its status as the “Standard of the World”? I took the opportunity to spend a day driving this impressive machine around Los Angeles to find out.
Getting behind the wheel of the new flagship fastback is an exhilarating experience.
The interior envelops me in sumptuous leather, with a seat that offers multiple adjustments for maximum comfort. The craftsmanship is impeccable, reminiscent of a finely crafted timepiece, and every surface I touch reflects a meticulous attention to detail. Interestingly, many components, including parts of the steering wheel and console, have been produced using 3D printing technology.
Cadillac aimed to create an electric vehicle without compromises, but the design of the battery pack posed some unique challenges.
Unlike the Lyriq, which features a flat battery pack, the Celestiq’s battery modules vary in height. The modules beneath the front seats stand at about nine inches, while those under the rear footwell are only six inches tall. To accommodate a 111 kWh battery that provides a range of 303 miles, some modules had to be placed under the center console, resulting in a storage compartment that is quite limited.
Despite the small storage space, the attention I received while driving the Celestiq made up for it. Its elegant design, highlighted by a captivating LED light signature, long hood, and sculpted rear, makes it a standout in a city filled with ordinary vehicles.
As I navigate the uneven streets of Hollywood, I intentionally seek out potholes and rough patches. My test vehicle is equipped with 22-inch wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires, which typically would lead to a jarring ride. However, the Celestiq’s advanced air suspension system effectively absorbs the bumps, ensuring a smooth and quiet city driving experience.
This vehicle is undeniably substantial, boasting a larger footprint than a two-door pickup truck, yet it feels surprisingly agile thanks to its rear steering feature. While finding parking can be a challenge, the Celestiq is more likely to be seen at a valet stand than on the street.
Heading into the hills, I was eager to test the 655 horsepower and 646 pound-feet of torque on winding roads. The Magnetic Ride Control system excels here, quickly adapting to the road conditions and the vehicle’s weight distribution, providing a reassuring sense of control. With the help of active roll control, the car remains stable through turns, despite its considerable size.
The steering may lack some feedback, but it is well-weighted, and the regenerative braking system adds a new layer of driving skill. By mastering the timing of my throttle lifts, I can maximize energy recovery without needing to engage the mechanical brakes before entering a corner.
The experience is enhanced by the impressive Dolby Atmos sound system, featuring 38 speakers, including four external ones that produce unique sounds for pedestrians. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with an advanced driver assistance system, allowing me to relax and let the car handle traffic.
However, the Celestiq does have its drawbacks. While the integration of Google Built-In is a step forward, I found it frustrating that connecting my phone for hands-free communication was often unreliable. This issue was not limited to the Celestiq, as I encountered similar problems in other models from the brand.
High-end consumers expect seamless technology, and the current smartphone integration falls short of that standard.
On the bright side, the vehicle’s display is visually stunning, featuring 55 inches of high-resolution screens across the dashboard. The passenger has their own screen for entertainment, while climate controls are conveniently located on a separate display.
While I would prefer physical buttons for HVAC controls, the separate screen at least allows for quick adjustments without navigating through multiple menus.
Of course, the Celestiq includes luxurious features like massaging seats, which seem to provide a longer duration of comfort compared to other luxury vehicles. However, the absence of heated and cooled cup holders is a notable oversight, though Cadillac has indicated they could add this feature upon request.
The glass roof, which can dim to 20% opacity in four zones, allows each passenger to customize their light exposure, adding to the overall luxury experience.
While I have some reservations about the power doors, which could lead to concerns about being trapped inside, the convenience of automatic door closing is undeniably appealing.
Each Celestiq is handcrafted at GM’s Global Technical Center in Michigan, ensuring a unique touch for every vehicle.
During my experience, I had the opportunity to work with a designer to select my preferred colors and materials, which was both exciting and overwhelming. I ultimately chose a striking blue exterior with a complementary interior color scheme.
Throughout the day, I enjoyed the Cadillac concierge service, which catered to my needs and preferences, ensuring I was well taken care of during the experience.
In the ultra-luxury electric vehicle market, the Celestiq faces limited competition, primarily from models like the Rolls-Royce Spectre EV. While other luxury brands have yet to fully embrace electric offerings, the Celestiq stands out as a unique option in this segment.
For those interested in owning one, the production of the Celestiq will be limited, with only 25 units planned for 2025, and most of those are already reserved. Future production numbers remain uncertain, but it is clear that this exclusive vehicle will be a rare find.