The ATS-V proves Cadillac can produce a sports car that can compete with the best that Europe and Japan can offer. Developed to excel on both the street and the track, this American machine is a serious threat to the established competition.
The ATS-V is available as either a Coupe or a Sedan. In four-door form, it targets the BMW M3, Benz C63 AMG, and the all-new Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. The ATS-V Coupe goes up against the BMW M4, Benz C63 AMG Coupe, Lexus RC F, and can certainly hold its own against left-field choices like the Shelby GT 350 or Chevrolet Corvette.
For 2017 the ATS-V minor updates, all to its technology features. A new forward distance indicator for the instrument cluster leverages the forward collision warning system to display how far ahead the next vehicle is, while the CUE infotainment system receives the Collection feature, which allows easy access to downloaded apps on the central touchscreen display. The ATS-V also gets the Teen Driver system which limits vehicle features, prevents safety features from being disabled, and provides the driver with a report on how the vehicle was driven.
The ATS-V Coupe and Sedan can be easily distinguished from conventional models by their unique front styling with an oversized mesh grille, quad rear tailpipes and extended rear wing. These details can are available in exposed carbon fibre, for added visual flair, and buyers can choose from staggered forged 18-inch wheels in painted, polished, or dark chrome finishes.
Under the big centre-mounted hood vent lies a 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine that develops an impressive 464 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 3.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 308 km/h. The engine is shared in common with the CTS Vsport, but has a different turbocharger, titanium connecting rods, and of course, more power. The ATS-V comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission that boasts rev-matched downshifts and no-lift shifting. An eight-speed automatic is available as an optional extra. As with most of its rivals, the ATS-V is rear-wheel drive and comes standard with high-performance Michelin Super Sport summer tires.
Handling is the ATS's forte; it steering is more communicative than its direct rivals, and its standard magnetic dampers give it a flat but not punishing ride. The ATS-V also gets standard Brembo brakes with calipers in standard, or optional gold or red finishes. The ATS-V is also available with an integrated forward-facing camera that allows owners to record lap times; the footage and data are downloadable via an SD card.
The ATS-V cabin receives several performance-oriented upgrades compared to the standard model, including exposed-weave carbon fibre trim, plus unique instrumentation. Heavily-bolstered Recaro front bucket seats are available, as are microfiber suede-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob. A head-up display with performance metering is also available. As with the standard ATS, rear quarters are tight on head and legroom.
Pricing for the ATS-V Sedan starts at $65,995. The Coupe is slightly more expensive at $68,295.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
