Personal Quickness: 2016 Cadillac ATS-V coupe
Cadillac has introduced the 2016 ATS-V coupe, expanding the acclaimed ATS product range and elevating the brand’s elite high-performance V-Series to its next generation. The ATS-V coupe debuts class-leading twin-turbocharged power and a comprehensive suite of design and performance systems.
Building on the strengths of the award-winning ATS product line, the V-Series adds impressive track capability to what was already the lightest and most agile-driving car in the luxury compact class. The result is a dual-purpose luxury performer – a car with true track capability right from the factory that is also a sophisticated luxury car on the road.
Power for the rear-wheel drive ATS-V coupe is generated by the first-ever twin-turbocharged 3.6L V6 engine in a V-Series. Torque is communicated to the street through a TREMEC TR6060 six-speed manual gearbox with Active Rev Match, no-lift shifting and launch control. An available paddle-shift Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission features launch control and Performance Algorithm Shift.
Key performance technologies for the ATS-V include: Brembo high-performance brake system developed to provide durability, consistency and the capability for track-day performance straight from the factory; third-generation Magnetic Ride Control, which delivers 40 percent faster damping response; integrated chassis controls that provide balanced performance for touring and the track, including class-exclusive Performance Traction Management; structural stiffness has been increased by 25 percent for higher cornering loads; driver-selectable driving modes for touring, sport and track; tri-compound tires that offer excellent grip with extended tire wear; and a functional exterior design that provides for powertrain and drivetrain cooling, as well as aerodynamic performance. There is also an available downforce-generating track aerodynamics package.
The underlying ATS structure is highly mass optimized and designed to meet higher performance requirements, with enhancements to the V-Series developed to respond to cornering and torque loads that go significantly beyond the levels experienced by the non-V models. The new elements include: unique shock tower-to-plenum brace; strengthened rocker bulkhead; stronger rear cradle-to-rocker braces; a unique aluminum shear panel at the front of the chassis; and V-braces for the engine compartment. The result is 25-percent greater structural stiffness than non-V models, which contributes to more precise handling and more direct steering responsiveness.
Inside the passenger cabin features high-performance seats and ergonomics focused on the driver’s interfaces with key features for performance driving. The aura of track-inspired precision carries over to the interior, where the design and relationship of key components are aimed squarely at performance-driving ergonomics. The rest of the interior features Cadillac’s handcrafted cut-and-sew elements, with decorative stitching and authentic materials, including carbon fiber. Three interior color combinations are offered: Jet Black, Jet Black with Saffron accents and Light Platinum with Jet Black accents.
The ATS-V also features a unique version of the 5.7-inch, three-window instrument panel cluster display, with V-Series graphics and distinctive gauge readouts.
A Performance Data Recorder onboard the ATS-V allows drivers to record high-definition video, with data overlays, of their driving experiences on and off the track, enabling sharing on social media.
It is also equipped with the latest connectivity technologies from Cadillac including: CUE with Bluetooth connectivity with natural voice recognition; text-to-voice system that converts incoming text messages to speech and reads them over the audio speakers; USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports; and OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The Performance Data Recorder is controlled via CUE’s color touch screen and recordings can be reviewed on the screen when the vehicle is parked.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 109.3; overall length: 184.7; width: 72.5; height: 54.5
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 3.6L V6 twin-turbo – 464 hp at 5,850 rpm and 445 lbs-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed manual, eight-speed automatic.
EPA Fuel Economy: 17 city/23 hwy. (manual); 16 city/24 hwy. (automatic)
Cargo capacity: 10.4 cubic feet
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, dual front knee airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, StabiliTrak vehicle stability control, power programmable door locks, remote keyless entry, keyless access, push button engine start, OnStar communications system, rear vision camera, Bluetooth hands free phone system, PASS-Key III+ theft-deterrent system, daytime running lamps, wireless mobile device charging, automatic headlamps, front/rear park assist, tire inflation kit, tire pressure monitoring system, battery run-down protection, electronic limited slip differential, and summer-only run flat performance tires.
Optional safety features include: navigation system, universal home remote, high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, IntelliBeam headlamps, heads-up display, Cadillac Edition first aid kit, highway safety kit, lane change alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, side blind zone alert, forward collision alert, and Rainsense intermittent wipers.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile
Corrosion: 4-year/50,000 mile
Roadside Assistance: 6-year/70,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V coupe starts from $62,665. Destination charges add $995.