Celestiq: Cadillac’s Luxurious Entry into the Super-Premium Space
Cadillac is making a bold statement with its upcoming 2024 Celestiq, a luxury electric hatchback that aims to compete with the likes of Rolls-Royce and Bentley in the super-premium segment. With a price tag exceeding $300,000, the Celestiq represents Cadillac’s return to the ultra-luxury market, a space the brand hasn’t occupied since the 1930s when it built V-16 behemoths. This highly exclusive and bespoke vehicle is set to offer a serene driving experience unlike any other.
During Monterey Car Week, we had the opportunity to take a short ride in an engineering validation prototype of the Celestiq. Despite the brief encounter, we were left impressed by the overall experience. The Celestiq exudes a commanding presence, with its 18-foot-long body, gradual sloping rear hatchback, and 23-inch wheels giving it a planted stance. The design of the hatchback sets it apart from more traditional luxury sedans, while the yacht-like essence of the roofline adds to its unique appeal.
A Glimpse Inside the Luxurious Cabin
Stepping inside the Celestiq, one is immediately struck by the distinctly Cadillac feel of the cabin. The full-width screen layout on the dashboard is reminiscent of the upcoming electric Escalade iQ, offering a modern and high-tech driving experience. In the rear, passengers are enveloped in luxurious leather seats that provide ample legroom. Despite the relatively low roofline compared to other luxury vehicles, there is sufficient headroom for most passengers.
The interior of the Celestiq is adorned with rich materials, including cool metal speaker grilles and wood trim. Each rear passenger is treated to a 12.6-inch screen mounted on the back of the front seats, offering a range of entertainment and vehicle information options. The intuitive interface allows passengers to stream video content, connect to the internet, and control the audio system. While not all functions were operational in the prototype we experienced, the screen felt responsive and user-friendly.
Comfort and Technology Merge in the Celestiq
A third screen situated on the rear-seat center console controls the various climate settings and activates heated or ventilated seats. The armrests are also heated, providing a level of comfort akin to a ghost-pepper heat. The massage functions offer a welcome respite for passengers after a long day, adding to the overall luxurious experience of the Celestiq.
During our ride in the Celestiq, we were impressed by the smooth and quiet ride quality. Despite driving at night, making it challenging to assess road conditions, very few disruptions reached the cabin, allowing us to glide along in serene comfort. The panoramic glass roof, with its electrochromic tinting and futuristic lighting pattern, added to the overall ambiance of the vehicle.
As initial deliveries of the Celestiq are set to begin in the fourth quarter of this year, Cadillac’s Artisan Center is gearing up to produce around 400 highly bespoke vehicles annually. With its blend of luxury, technology, and comfort, the Celestiq promises to offer a truly unique driving experience for those fortunate enough to own one.
In conclusion, the Cadillac Celestiq represents a bold step into the super-premium segment, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. With its exclusive and bespoke nature, the Celestiq is set to compete with the best in the industry, providing a serene driving experience unlike any other. As we eagerly await the opportunity for a more extended test drive, the Celestiq stands out as a symbol of Cadillac’s commitment to excellence in the world of luxury vehicles.
