2012 NAIAS: Cadillac ATS
Cadillac might have sold the CTS as its 3-Series competitor when it debuted a decade ago but the truth is the CTS has always been a bit too big and heavy to match the stalwart 3-Series punch-for-punch. In an effort to make the fight more interesting Cadillac introduced the ATS that measures within an inch of the Bavarian in every important dimension. The result is a tidy sport sedan with short overhangs and a lot of design details borrowed from the full-size XTS.
It’s a handsome package inside and out and knowing that engineers focused on keeping weight low and spent plenty of time tuning the dynamics on tracks around the world we really have high hopes for the car’s legitimacy as a 3-Series contender. The base car will use a 200 hp 2.5-liter I4 but enthusiasts will probably want the 6-speed manual paired to the new 270 hp turbo four. Anyone wanting a V6 will be glad to see the 318 hp 3.6 liter V6 at the top of the options list. Cadillac also includes Magnetic Ride Control, 18” performance tires and Brembo brakes on the options list. We’re already counting the days until we drive the new baby Caddy when it goes on sale this summer.
Photos by Jason Muxlow
