Cadillac ATS-V: Canadian Premiere In Toronto

Since the latest version of the Cadillac CTS is longer and larger, the Germans thought they could go back to resting on their laurels: there was no way the big sedan could be lean enough to challenge their new, lighter M3 and M4 on a racetrack.

And they were right. Which is why Cadillac chose to modify the ATS to turn it into the lapping machine known as the ATS-V. This time however they didn't stuff a huge V8 under the car’s front fenders; instead, a 3.6-litre twin-turbo is used, sending 455 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. Since the car weighs only 1678 kg, it can get from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. Driving enthusiasts’ prayers have been heard, as the ATS-V comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission. With a rev-match function, no-lift shift (which was perfected on the Cobalt SS) and launch control, this is THE Cadillac V for purists. For the others, the 8-speed automatic from the Corvette can be ordered.

But power isn’t everything. Engineers also completely retuned the chassis, added huge Brembo brakes and the GM magnetic suspension to all four corners, modified most of the bodywork to improve aerodynamics and cooling (a track-focused aerodynamic package is also offered), and replaced many parts with lighter panels made of carbon-fibre in key areas.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but we know that the ATS-V will hit dealerships next spring.

Share on Facebook

More on the subject

NewsThe Cadillac CT6 Breaks Cover For The First Time
During the Oscar awards, Cadillac decided to reward the gearheads who were watching the ceremony: during a 60 second ad, we were able to see the first blurry shot of the Cadillac CT6, which will take its place as Cadillac's flagship. The very short moment where we could actually see …
Technology/Autonomous VehiclesHere's The Cadillac CT6's Engine
We already know that the upcoming Cadillac CT6 will be a full-size car that will compete against the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series. To make sure it will have sufficient power, it seems that Cadillac is moving away from the ancestral tradition of stuffing a big V8 …
Spotlight on2016 Cadillac ATS-V: We're Driving It This Week
When Cadillac tags a V onto the end of one of its models, you know it’s going to be hot. And fast. The latest Cadillac to be adorned with this letter is the ATS-V, and www.carguideweb.com contributor Costa Mouzouris is on his way to Austin, Texas, to drive this twin-turbocharged, …
First Drives2016 Cadillac ATS-V: A Track-Ready Cadillac? You Bet!
Cadillac introduced its first high-performance V-series car in 2004, based on the 2003 CTS sedan. The CTS-V eventually became available in station wagon and coupe versions, but until now, however, the only other Cadillacs to have brandished the elusive “V” badge were the also-elusive XLR-V and STS-V. That changes this …