The 2016 Cadillac ATS-V is one hot rocket and brandishes some impressive numbers. Available in either coupe or sedan form, the ATS-V can muster 464 horsepower from its twin-turbocharged V6. Even more impressive is the 445 lb-ft of torque that packs one helluva a wallop up to 3,500 rpm when it sends that power to the rear wheels via a short-throw 6-speed manual or a paddle-shift 8-speed automatic.
The steel and aluminum chassis has been reworked and stiffer thanks to a shock tower brace, V-shaped braces under the hood, a stronger rocker bulkhead and rear cradle-to-rocker braces, and an aluminum shear panel in front. The suspension is computer controlled, with advanced magnetic dampers and the excellent Performance Traction Management (PTM) system.
Creature comfort features abound for both the driver and front passenger. The optional Recaro seats embrace their occupants and hold them in place with ample bolsters, while still offering a luxury feel. Only one trim level is offered, which includes standard equipment like 18-inch alloy wheels, Bose premium audio system, Cadillac’s CUE infotainment system, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, leather interior, leather-wrapped steering wheel, rearview camera, power tilt/telescoping steering column, and wireless phone charging.
The Cadillac ATS-V sedan competes quite favorably with the best of the German sports sedans, namely the BMW M3 and M4, and the Mercedes-AMG C63. Like its luxury competition, the ATS-V is equally at home on a race track or enjoyed as a luxury car on the street.
This shiny sedan from Detroit can gallop from zero to sixty in 3.9 seconds, but how will it perform in the thin air of Colorado? Watch this TFL Car video and find out if the Cadillac ATS-V can scorch the quarter-mile 5,800 feet above sea level.