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AUTOS: Cadillac Reveals Compact ATS
Sport/luxury sedan designed to compete with German models is due for unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show.
Bob Golfen  |  Posted January 08, 2012   Detroit, MI
The 2013 Cadillac ATS sports/luxury sedan was shown before its unveiling Monday at the Detroit Auto Show. (Photo: Cadillac)
Cadillac today introduced its 2013 compact sports/luxury sedan, the ATS, prior to its unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show this week, revealing the all-new car designed to compete with such premium compacts as the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class that dominate the segment.

With the styling of Cadillac’s new Art and Science credo, the rear-drive sedan boasts the lowest curb weight – 3,400 pounds – of its class along with the choice of three engines, two four-cylinders and a V6.
The ATS advances what the GM luxury division calls its Arts and Science design philosophy. (Photo: Cadillac)
Cadillac says the ATS emphasizes handling finesse for enthusiast drivers, with near 50/50 weight balance and a suspension that includes a five-link independent rear suspension, multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar, and driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension with Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping.

Steering is provided by a ZF system with belt-driven electric variable-effort steering gear, and Brembo performance brakes and all-wheel drive are available.

“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “More than just another new entry, the ATS aims to change the status quo of the European-dominated segment.”

The standard engine is a 200-horsepower naturally aspirated 2-liter four that offers the greatest fuel efficiency. Optional engines are a turbocharged 2-liter rated at 270 horsepower and a 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 318 horsepower. Both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions will be available.

The ATS interior can be configured in a wide variety of sporty and luxurious trim levels. (Photo: Cadillac)
The new sedan’s light weight can be attributed to a collection of carefully integrated solutions, including an aluminum hood, magnesium engine mounts and natural-fiber door panels, as well as straight links for the rear suspension that use lightweight high-strength steel.

ATS will offer the full range of Cadillac electronics technology, including the new Cadillac User Experience, or CUE, infotainment system that uses an 8-incn LCD screen for driver interface with the car’s computer, audio system, Bluetooth, and SD and USB memory.

The sport/luxury interior can be configured in a variety of ways, Cadillac says, with wood, metal plating and carbon-fiber trim, plus Cadillac’s “cut-and-sew” instrument panel, console and doors. A wide choice of color themes ranges from light and airy to bold and serious.

The Detroit Auto Show at Cobo Center opens with press days on Monday and Tuesday, industry preview Wednesday and Thursday, charity preview on Friday and public days from Jan. 14-22.

Bob Golfen, Automotive Editor for SPEED.com, is a veteran auto writer based in Phoenix, Arizona, with a passion for collector cars, car culture and the automotive lifestyle. SPEED.com fans can email Bob Golfen at
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