Shopping for a Cadillac SUV means choosing from one of the most comprehensive luxury lineups available in Ontario. From the urban-friendly XT4 to the commanding Escalade ESV, each model targets specific family sizes and lifestyle needs. Understanding how these vehicles rank in practical metrics like cargo space and towing capacity helps you find the perfect match.
Utility matters as much as luxury when selecting your next SUV. Whether you need maximum towing for weekend boats, expansive cargo for family road trips, or efficient daily commuting around Mississauga, Cadillac's diverse lineup ensures there's an option that delivers both capability and refinement.
At a Glance: Cadillac SUV Utility Rankings
Model
|
Seating
|
Max Cargo (Litres)
|
Towing Capacity
|
Powertrain
|
Best For
|
Escalade ESV
|
8
|
4,028
|
3,629 kg (8,000 lbs)
|
6.2L V8/3.0L Diesel
|
Ultimate cargo & towing
|
Escalade IQL
|
7-8
|
3,891
|
3,401 kg (7,500 lbs)
|
Dual Motor EV
|
Largest electric utility
|
Escalade
|
7-8
|
3,412
|
3,629 kg (8,000 lbs)
|
6.2L V8/Diesel/V-Series
|
Full-size luxury
|
VISTIQ
|
7
|
2,271
|
2,268 kg (5,000 lbs)
|
Dual Motor EV
|
Sporty 3-row EV
|
XT6
|
6-7
|
2,229
|
1,814 kg (4,000 lbs)
|
3.6L V6/2.0L Turbo
|
Midsize family
|
XT5
|
5
|
1,784
|
1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)
|
2.0L Turbo/3.6L V6
|
Compact luxury
|
LYRIQ
|
5
|
1,722
|
1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)
|
Dual Motor EV
|
Modern 2-row EV
|
OPTIQ
|
5
|
1,614
|
680 kg (1,500 lbs)
|
Dual Motor EV
|
Sporty midsize EV
|
XT4
|
5
|
1,384
|
1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)
|
2.0L Turbo
|
Urban versatility
|
Maximum Cargo Champions

The Escalade family dominates cargo capacity rankings, with the ESV leading at 4,028 litres of maximum storage space. This full-size SUV accommodates everything from camping gear to moving day essentials. The standard Escalade follows closely at 3,412 litres, while the electric Escalade IQL offers 3,891 litres with the added benefit of a front trunk.
For families stepping down from full-size territory, the VISTIQ provides 2,271 litres of cargo space in an electric three-row package. This represents excellent utility for a more manageable SUV that still seats seven passengers comfortably.
- Best overall cargo: Escalade ESV (4,028 litres)
- Best electric cargo: Escalade IQL (3,891 litres plus front trunk)
- Best midsize cargo: VISTIQ (2,271 litres with 3 rows)
- Best compact cargo: XT5 (1,784 litres)
Towing Capacity Leaders

Towing capability varies significantly across Cadillac's lineup, with gasoline engines generally providing higher ratings than electric powertrains. The Escalade and Escalade ESV top the charts at 3,629 kg (8,000 lbs) when properly equipped, making them suitable for large boats, travel trailers, and heavy equipment.
Electric models offer competitive towing within their segments. The Escalade IQL leads electric towing at 3,401 kg (7,500 lbs), while the VISTIQ provides 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) for moderate trailer duty. The LYRIQ and XT4 both offer 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) capacity, matching the XT5's rating and providing adequate capability for smaller boats or utility trailers. The OPTIQ offers 680 kg (1,500 lbs) for light towing needs.
- Maximum towing: Escalade/ESV - 3,629 kg (8,000 lbs)
- Best electric towing: Escalade IQL - 3,401 kg (7,500 lbs)
- Midsize towing: VISTIQ - 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs)
- Compact towing: LYRIQ/XT4/XT5 - 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)
- Light towing: OPTIQ - 680 kg (1,500 lbs)
Third Row Excellence

Three-row seating transforms SUVs into family command centres, and Cadillac offers multiple approaches. The Escalade family provides the most spacious third row experience, with the ESV offering maximum legroom for adult passengers. The VISTIQ brings three-row capability to the electric lineup with 431 litres of cargo remaining behind the third row.
The XT6 serves as the midsize three-row option, seating six or seven passengers depending on configuration. While more compact than the Escalade models, it still provides usable third row space for children and occasional adult passengers.
Electric vs Gasoline Trade-offs

Cadillac's dual approach to powertrains creates interesting comparisons within similar size categories. Electric models like the LYRIQ and VISTIQ offer instant torque, quiet operation, and lower operating costs, while gasoline models typically provide higher towing ratings and unlimited range.
The Escalade IQL demonstrates how electric powertrains can deliver serious utility, matching many gasoline SUVs for cargo space while providing 740 km of estimated range. For Ontario families considering the switch to electric, the VISTIQ offers three-row versatility without the full-size footprint of the Escalade IQL.
Which Cadillac SUV is Right for You?

Your ideal Cadillac SUV depends on balancing utility needs with daily driving requirements. Large families with serious towing demands gravitate toward the Escalade ESV, while environmentally conscious buyers seeking maximum electric utility choose the Escalade IQL.
The VISTIQ hits the sweet spot for families wanting three rows without full-size dimensions, while the LYRIQ appeals to couples and small families prioritizing technology and efficiency. Urban drivers often prefer the XT4's manageable size and parking ease, especially in busy areas like downtown Mississauga.
Experience Cadillac's Complete SUV Lineup at Applewood Cadillac
Ready to compare these utility champions in person? Our Mississauga showroom features Cadillac's full SUV lineup, allowing you to experience cargo space, seating comfort, and driving dynamics firsthand. Book your appointment with our knowledgeable team to find the perfect balance of luxury and capability for your Ontario lifestyle.
You might also be interested in these blogs: Complete 2026 Cadillac LYRIQ-V Specs and Performance Guide | Comparing the 2026 Cadillac VISTIQ to the Cadillac XT6 | 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ: The new benchmark in luxury electric SUVs