For this edition of The Car Coach, YNN’s Lauren Fix brings us a closer look at the 2013 Cadillac ATS AWD, a spirited entry-level, compact sports sedan.
Model: 2013 Cadillac ATS
MPG: 22 city / 33 hwy.
Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder – 202hp.
2.0L Turbo – 272hp.
3.6L V-6 – 321hp.
6-speed automatic transmission
Price: starts $33,095
Test vehicle: $52,100
The 2013 Cadillac ATS comes with a four-cylinder engine and has rear-wheel drive, but an optional turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a V6 engine, and all-wheel drive are available. All-wheel drive is optional on the 2.0L and 3.6L.
Bold vertical lighting elements make the ATS stand out in the crowd. The ATS cruises along on 17-inch wheels with optional 18 inches.
Safety features include eight standard airbags, including knee airbags. The rearview camera includes dynamic guidelines and available radar sensor-based technologies, including adaptive cruise control, intelligent brake assist, forward collision alert, rear cross traffic alert, side blind zone alert, and more.
The ATS feels terrific on a winding road; and like most sports sedans, it’s easy to drive. The minimal body roll and tight handling is provided by the Magnetic Ride Control suspension.
Inside, the ATS comes with a strong list of standard features, including Bluetooth, dual USB ports, and a Bose stereo. Higher trims and optional packages add the CUE (Cadillac User Experience) infotainment system, navigation and safety features, like a lane departure warning system and parking sensors.
While the 2013 ATS seats five, the second-row seats are cramped for adults.
Competes with:
BMW 3 Series
Audi A4
Infiniti G sedans
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Likes:
Comfortable ride
Smooth transmissions
Strong Brembo brakes
CUE Infotainment center has a large screen and is easy to use
Dislikes:
Cramped second-row seats
Small trunk compared to similar cars in the segment
The 2013 Cadillac ATS is a compact luxury sport sedan that’s as nimble and exhilarating as it is luxurious and technologically advanced.
Remember, when shopping for a new car, test drive as many vehicles as you can in the class you are looking in, to make sure you find the car that is best for you.
Courtesy of YNN/Time Warner Cable
Aired: 4/09/2013