2016 Cadillac ATS-V: First Look
Competes with: BMW M4, Audi RS 5, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Lexus RC F
Looks like: Just the right amount of subtleness and intimidation for a performance-focused ATS
Drivetrain: 455-hp (estimated), twin-turbo 3.6-liter V-6 engine with six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive
Hits dealerships: Spring 2015
The Cadillac ATS-V is a high-performance version of the luxury brand’s compact car, the ATS. Available in four-seat coupe or five-seat sedan form beginning next spring, the 2016 ATS-V is powered by a twin-turbo V-6 engine and has been extensively modified for better track performance.
Related: More 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show Coverage
Exterior
The ATS-V has the same crisp lines as its platform-mate, but a number of visual cues let you know this is no ordinary ATS. The grille is narrower to make room for a gaping lower intake, and both openings have a mesh finish like previous V-Series cars.
The power dome hood is made of carbon fiber, and it includes a vent designed to remove hot air from the engine bay and reduce lift. The front splitter increases downforce for better handling, and the fenders are wider to accommodate wider tires. Rear styling cues include quad exhaust tips set toward the car’s center and a rear spoiler. An available Carbon Fiber Package includes a more aggressive splitter, hood vent trim, a rear diffuser, composite rocker panel extensions and a taller rear spoiler.
A number of extra braces on the car, including a shock tower brace, help increase structural stiffness by 25 percent for better handing and steering feel, according to Cadillac. Roll stiffness is up 50 percent in the front suspension thanks to new components, higher-rate springs and a stiffer stabilizer bar. The multilink rear suspension gains a stiffer stabilizer bar, higher-rate springs and firmer bushings. The suspension also incorporates GM’s Magnetic Ride Control system, which features adaptive shock absorbers.
Interior
The most distinctive element of the ATS-V’s cabin is the available Recaro-brand performance seats. They give the interior an aggressive look, feature 16-way adjustment and are trimmed in leather and suede-style microfiber.
Technology features include the Cadillac User Experience multimedia system, Bluetooth connectivity, audible text message playback, USB and SD card connectivity, and OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi capability.
An available Track Package includes the elements of the Carbon Fiber Package plus GM’s Performance Data Recorder and a lightweight battery. It also removes the floormats and tire-inflator kit for even greater weight savings. The Performance Data Recorder captures high-definition video of the view ahead of the car when driving — with overlaid data points —for later review (when stationary) on the car’s touch-screen.
Under the Hood
Power comes from a twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6 engine that makes an estimated 455 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 445 pounds-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection, lightweight connecting rods and low-inertia turbocharger turbines. Estimated fuel-economy figures haven’t been released.
Power is routed to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic with shift paddles. Both transmissions feature launch control provisions, and the manual also includes automatic rev-matching. Cadillac says the ATS-V can go from zero to 60 mph in as little as 3.9 seconds with a top speed in excess of 185 mph. An electronic limited-slip differential is standard.
The Brembo-brand brake system is designed for the rigors of track driving. It includes 14.5-inch front rotors gripped by six-piston calipers and 13.3-inch rear rotors with four-piston calipers.
Safety Features
Safety technology includes an electronic stability system, traction control and antilock brakes.
Manufacturer images
