Cadillac launched its 2013 Cadillac ATS at the Detroit Auto Show which would be GM’s contender in the compact luxury sedan segment currently ruled by BMW and Audi.

This segment is the biggest luxury car segment in the world and GM is betting big on the ATS to make its mark here.

Stylish Design

The Cadillac ATS is being rolled out on an all-new platform with rear-wheel-drive. Cadillac is quite proud of the car’s design. In the ATS, Cadillac’s Art and Science design language has been borrowed from the larger CTS sedan with flat surfaces and angular lines seen across the body.

The design is not just aesthetically pleasing but has ensured that the new ATS is significantly lighter than the competition. In fact, keeping the car light was one of the core design objectives for the vehicle and every component was considered for alternate lighter options without compromising on functionality.

Lightweight

The car uses door trim panels of natural fiber, aluminum hood and engine mount blocks of magnesium to ensure low overall weight of the vehicle. The car is 100 pounds lighter than the Audi A4 despite having much more powerful engine under the hood. High power to weight ratio makes this car quite nimble on its feet and promises to be a pleasure for enthusiasts.

Performance

The Cadillac ATS is available in 3 engine options. At the lower end, 2.5 liter 4-cylinder in line would produce 200 hp which should return a good fuel economy at 30mpg on highway. The most interesting options would be 2.0 liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine which will churn out 270 hp and the 3.6 liter V6 with an output of 318 hp.

The first impressions of ATS suggest that it would be a great performance car with high power to weight ratio. The car is expected to be quick and nimble and should be fun to drive. While looks are subject to individual preference, the biggest selling point for ATS is surely going to be its performance and its lightweight design.

Specifications