Road Test: 2013 Cadillac ATS

By: Hassan Siddiqi

March 18,2013

3 min read

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The word Cadillac conjures up images of V8 engines, never-ending American highways stretching to the horizon and bonnets the size of pool tables.

But the new generation of this iconic brand is a very different animal - powerful yet practical, sleek yet stylish - a true competitor to the very best the German manufacturers can offer.

Driving Performance

The 2013 Cadillac ATS 2.5L is a classic saloon car that is designed to offer the most luxurious and reliable everyday driving experience while combining that with value for money and affordability. The overall design reflects Cadillac’s philosophy of art and science.

From the outside this is an attractive, angular and visually striking vehicle - smart, sleek and impressive from all four sides. The bodywork is expressive, combining a timeless elegance with an attractive design. This model boasts a long wheelbase, of 2,775mm, while 18inch wheels are standard on all models. The new LED front signature detail, illuminating door handles and active grille shutters are all impressive and elegant touches, with the grille shutters closing at high speeds in order to reduce drag and boost fuel economy.

It sounds like a Cadillac too - the four-cylinder engine providing the kind of grunt that gets the pulse racing, even if the bite may not ultimately be as fierce as the bark. But even if the acceleration doesn't quite deliver to the level of some of its more celebrated rivals, this ATS ticks many boxes in this highly competitive modern sports-sedan segment. The steering is tight and responsive, while the braking is firm and assured, with plenty of feedback for the driver through the beautifully calibrated pedals. This is an agile, lightweight performer that delivers across the board.

Interior

On the inside, there is quality, innovation and convenience, very much comparable with the German rivals.The seats are comfortable and full of clean lines. A myriad of options allow the owner to choose from a vast array of interior colours to tailor the look and feel of this car. The leg room is generous too, in both the front and back, while the boot offers average room with 290L available, not best in class compared to Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. However Audi A4 has an elongated boot shape while the ATS has a wider shape which results in better usability.

When it comes to controlling your environment, Cadillac are very much at the cutting edge, having introduced an extremely impressive touch-screen interface, called the “Cadillac User Experience” or CUE. The system features an 8-inch LCD touchscreen that is scratch-resistant and delivers crisp, clean images and graphics.

Cadillac has introduced voice control capability for the entire system, while the owner can also use one of three USB ports to enhance the experience. CUE also carries mapping software, collision prevention, traffic alerts and all the bells and whistles that make this system a leader in the class. This technology really lifts the car and enhances the driving experience, making controlling this car an enjoyable and interactive experience.

Verdict

This is a fiercely competitive market. Is the driving performance as good as the likes of German compact sedans? No, but if you are willing to give up a little bit of performance in return for a superior driver experience that combines luxury and technology then this is the car for you.