2016 Cadillac ATS coupe

Entry-level 2016 ATS coupe is nice, but not perfect

May/June 2016
Jim Prueter
The 2016 Cadillac ATS coupe is the two-door version of Cadillac’s entry-level model. Cadillac restyled the ATS last year, using the signature design of its other Cadillac models.
 
The Cadillac ATS development team had the BMW 4 series squarely in its sights when dialing up the sportiness of its rear- or all-wheel drive vehicle.
 
Two engines are offered for the ATS coupe: the turbocharged 272 horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, and the 335 horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 that’s teamed with a new 8-speed automatic transmission.
 
The ATS Coupe is offered in three trim levels: Luxury, Performance, and Premium. I drove the V6-equipped Premium that incorporates new features such as GM’s Active Fuel Management and stop/start technology (which GM says improves fuel economy up to 9 percent). Power was strong and shifts extremely smooth. With the automatic, drivers get to choose between sport mode and touring mode. Sport mode affords more throttle response and tightens the suspension.
 
While not bad, the ATS’ ride and handling still falls short of BMW’s 4 series for sporting feel and vehicle acoustics. The Cadillac’s styling is nice, but could be a bit bolder.
 
The interior appears to be high quality, but the materials didn’t feel like what one would expect in a Cadillac. Room was sparse; in addition to my head brushing the headliner, I felt like I was sitting at an angle to the steering wheel and never found a comfortable position.
 
Thanks to the company’s CUE – or Cadillac User Experience – system, the ATS is one of the most connected cars on the market. The infotainment system works with smartphones and also supports 4G LTE data, turning the car into a Wi-Fi hotspot.
 
Overall, while not perfect, the ATS looks good and drives well but is still playing catch up when it comes to the BMW 4 series.
JIM PRUETER, an automotive writer based in Phoenix, has provided reviews and advice about cars for more than 20 years.

Details

Fuel Economy
  • 12 MPG City
  • 32 MPG Highway
Key Safety Features
  • Forward-collision alert
  • Front- and rear-automatic braking
  • Lane-departure warning
  • Lane-keep assist
  • Side blind-zone alert
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
The Good
  • Strong engine performance
  • Impressive connected CUE interface system
  • Excellent active safety features
The Bad
  • Small interior
  • Uncomfortable sitting position
  • Still isn't a BMW
Vehicle Type:
Coupe
Base Price:
$37,995
As Tested:
$56,415

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