When the Cadillac ATS debuted in 2012, the engineers responsible had a good sense of what they had wrought. In developing the entry-level model for the most American of luxury brands, the benchmark had been the BMW 3 Series, specifically the E46 version from the turn of this century. The aim was to make a better car. The debate raged as to whether they had succeeded.
Three years later, Cadillac set about improving the ATS with a new platform better able to accommodate all- or rear-wheel drive layouts and boasting near 50/50 weight distribution, regardless of engine or drive configuration. The aim here: To engineer the high-performance ATS-V and, via the trickle-down effect, make all other models in the ATS line that much better.
There are three different versions of the "regular" ATS, differentiated by engine size. The turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder is considered the go-to model, but the version tested here, the 3.6-litre V-6, has its merits. This engine has been revamped for the 2016 model year (output is a credible 333 horsepower) and the old, outdated six-speed automatic transmission was replaced by an eight-speed. The engine is also fitted with automatic start/stop and a cylinder deactivation system for improved efficiency. The ATS 3.6 comes with rear-wheel drive standard; this one was kitted out with the optional AWD, which is an on-demand system.
This version is, for sure, a well-sorted compact sport sedan with more than adequate acceleration and commendable handling characteristics. The steering is lighter compared to some competitors, but this is not a deal-breaker. This ATS comes fitted with paddle shifters, though the typical owner would just put it in drive and leave things well enough alone.
Other versions of the ATS are more likely to appeal to the hardcore enthusiast. There is an adaptive sport suspension system on the 3.6 in a different trim level and a limited-slip rear differential finds its way onto the rear-wheel drive versions of the sedan. The turbo ATS is noisier, for sure, but this engine has that old-school American V-6 engine note, more of a deep persistent whine than a roar; that's not terribly inspiring.
For sure, the Cadillac ATS is right in the mix in the compact luxury sport sedan segment. This particular version might not be as thrilling as, say, the turbocharged four-cylinder model with the six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive. But for the driver who wants a blend of performance, comfort and all-weather capability, you could do a lot worse.
You'll like this car if ... Style, performance and luxury in a non-Germanic package is your goal.
TECH SPECS
- Base price: $47,580; as tested: $56,790
- Engine: 3.6-litre V-6
- Transmission/Drive: Eight-speed automatic/All-wheel drive
- Fuel economy (litres/100 km): 12.2 city; 8.5 highway); 10.5 combined
- Alternatives: Acura ILX, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Infiniti Q50 3.0T AWD, Lexus IS 350, Mercedes-Benz C-Class
RATINGS
- Looks: While German car makers have been busy evolving their designs and their brands over decades, Cadillac had the luxury of a fresh start with the CTS and all other vehicles that followed. The ATS sedan, with its crisp lines and evocative lighting, is one of the beneficiaries.
- Interior: As good as Cadillac has been in terms of exterior design, they may be even better on the inside. The ATS suffers a bit from being the entry-level model, so there’s cut-and-sew leather on display here than in the CTS, CT6 and Escalade. Still, the design is slick.
- Performance: From a numbers standpoint, the ATS 3.6L does the business. But there’s something about this version that seems less driver-focused than a comparably priced Benz or BMW. It might be the steering feel, the engine note, the transmission or a general sense that the German rivals feel more solid overall.
- Technology: The Luxury Collection package includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, a Bose surround sound audio system and a navigation system triggered by the CUE touchscreen. Full credit to Cadillac for pushing the technological envelope with its haptic feedback touchscreen, but traditionalists will find frustration here.
- Cargo: The ATS sedan has four doors and a trunk, which is good. But it’s also a compact sedan, so space in the back seat and trunk is not exactly plentiful.
THE VERDICT
8.0
An inspired bit of engineering.
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