Launched for the 2013 model year, the Cadillac ATS sedan was developed as a luxury competitor to the BMW 3 Series, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class->ke1593 and the Audi A4->ke1087. Nearly two years later, the GM-owned brand expanded the ATS family to include a two-door coupe aimed mainly at the BMW 4 Series. Just like its sedan sibling, the ATS Coupe gained a turbo, 2.0-liter four-banger and a 3.6-liter V-6 rated at 272 horsepower and 321 ponies, respectively. Additionally, and much like the CTS range, the ATS family is set to receive the high-performance "V" treatment. As we approach 2015, the ATS-V Coupe is the first model to have its engine injected with more oomph. The move pushes the stylish two-door vehicle closer to BMW's range-topping 4 Series model, the M4->ke4183, and into a market that also includes the awesome Audi RS5.

After months of testing and teasing, the ATS-V Coupe has been finally unveiled, showcasing its aerodynamic body kit, new technology and V-6 engine at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show. Although inspired by the larger CTS-V, the ATS-V is quite different. Numerous chassis updates make it a capable track car, while the 3.6-liter V-6 is downright impressive on paper.

Will Cadillac stand a chance against the big guns of the industry with the brand-new ATS-V Coupe? Guess we'll find out next year when the high-performance Caddy arrives in showrooms. Meanwhile, let's have a look at the full details surrounding this beefed-up coupe.

Updated 02/10/2015: Cadillac announced prices for the 2016 ATS-V Coupe which will be put on sale in April, 2015. Prices will start from $63,660.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V Coupe.

2016 Cadillac ATS-V Coupe

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2016 Cadillac ATS-V Coupe
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 455 @ 5750
  • Torque: 445 @ 3500
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Update History

Updated 11/19/2014: Cadillac has revealed all of the details on the ATS-V.

Updated 07/22/2014: We created a rendering of the future ATS-V Coupe based on the spy shots we've seen so far. Check it out after the jump.

Updated 11/11/2014: The first images and details of the new Cadillac ATS-V have surfaced online just a few hours after Cadillac dropped the first teaser video of the sports coupe. Check them out after the jump. (Road & Track)

Spy Shots

July 16, 2016 - Cadillac ATS-V Coupe Loses Cammo

July 14, 2014 - Cadillac ATS-V Coupe testing near Nurburgring

Just like the upcoming CTS-V, the brand-new ATS-V Coupe landed in Germany for extensive testing on the Nurburgring track. Given the two-door Caddy is aimed at the BMW M4, the most powerful and agile coupe in its class, seeing it on the "Green Hell" comes at no surprise. Unfortunately, the heavy camouflage covering the front and rear fascias prevent us from having a peek at the car's design, but there are a few details we can speculate upon.

Firstly, it appears the ATS-V received a front grille similar to that seen on the CTS-V. The trapezoidal, V-shaped piece comes with the same vertical slats and covers most of the fascia, being wider than the grille fitted on the standard model. Secondly, the aggressive apron now features a three-piece intake configuration and a prominent splitter for enhanced downforce. The new aero package continues around back with a trunk spoiler and a redesigned rear diffuser. A new, twin-exhaust system is also noticeable below the rear apron. Lastly, a set of lightweight, alloy wheels suggests Cadillac focused on shaving a few more pounds off the coupe before slapping a "V" badge on its trunk.

While the ATS-V's styling is not much of a mystery, its powerplant is still unknown. However, our best educated guess is that Cadillac has dropped a twin-turbo, 3.6-liter V-6 in the engine bay. We expect the mill to deliver at least 430 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque, figures that will place the ATS-V Coupe above the M4 as far as output goes. In the transmission department, we figure the six-speed automatic offered on the regular ATS will be dropped in favor of an eight-speed autobox.

Rendering

While creating the ATS-V Coupe rendering, we followed the same steps as in the CTS-V, including a new Maybach-style grill, a new spoiler integrated on the rear, splitters up front and side skirts along with larger air intakes.

There is also a slight hump in the hood to help clear heat from the engine compartment. Also from what we can see in the spy shots, the vertical daytime running lamps are missing from the V model.

Exterior

Although preliminary spy shots hinted Cadillac might use a unique front grille with vertical slats on the ATS-V Coupe, the high-performance two-door receives a mesh piece similar to the CTS-V's. That's not a bad thing though, as the grille is slimmer than the one seen on the standard coupe, providing a more aggressive appearance. The apron is also brand-new, featuring a wide and tall air dam flanked by revised side intakes. A carbon-fiber splitter and a bulged, carbon-fiber hood contribute to the ATS-V's menacing looks.

The scenario is equally aggressive around back, where a diffuser-like piece replaces the regular apron. Also, a four-tailpipe exhaust configuration signals this Cadillac is out to hunt for the likes of the BMW M4. The V package also includes lightweight alloy wheels featuring a twin-five-spoke layout. Both the rollers and the brake calipers behind them can be had in three different finishes, allowing buyers to customize their ATS-V Coupe. A blacked-out window trim replaces the standard chrome offered on the regular coupe. A lowered suspension gets the ATS closer to the ground to round off the visual upgrade.

If the ATS-V isn't menacing enough for you, a Carbon Fiber package adds a more aggressive front splitter and rear diffuser to the ATS-V. A new hood vent trim, composite side skirts and a slightly larger rear spoiler takes the coupe's aerodynamic performance up a notch. There's also a Track package, which includes everything that comes with the Carbon-Fiber package while ditching more weight by deleting the standard floor mats and the tire-inflator kit.

Exterior Dimensions

Wheelbase (in / mm):

109.3 / 2775

Length (in / mm):

184.7 / 4691

Height (in / mm):

54.5 / 1384

Width (in / mm):

72.5 / 1841

Track (in / mm):

front: 60.5 / 1538
rear: 61.4 / 1559

Curb weight (lb / kg):

TBD

Weight distribution (% front / rear):

51 / 49


Side-by-side comparison

Interior

The interior doesn't see massive layout improvements over the standard ATS, but Cadillac did its best to suggest the ATS-V is a performance rig. The first indication we're looking at a vehicle ready to hit the track are the 16-way adjustable Recaro performance front seats with adjustable bolsters. The racing-inspired seats provide the utmost support during high-speed cornering, while also maintaining a luxury feel thanks to the Mulan leather and sueded microfiber inserts they are wrapped in.

Other details setting the ATS-V apart from its standard sibling include handcrafted, cut-and-sew elements, decorative stitching and carbon-fiber inserts. Interior color combinations are limited to three choices : Jet Black, Jet Black with Saffron accents, and Light Platinum with Jet Black accents.

The uniqueness of the ATS-V Coupe continues with a bespoke version of the 5.7-inch instrument panel cluster display. The three-window unit includes distinctive gauge readouts and V-Series graphics unique to the ATS-V. Customers who select the Track package will also receive the Performance Data Recorder. Introduced on the 2015 Corvette Stingray, this on-board system allows drivers to record HD videos of their driving experience as well as gather data of the vehicle's performance on and off the race track. The Performance Data Recorder can be accessed using Cadillac's CUE infotainment, while recordings can be reviewed on the color screen when the ATS-V is parked.

Speaking of infotainment, the ATS-V Coupe is also equipped with Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, Text-to-Voice, USB, SD memory card ports and OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi.

Interior Dimensions

Legroom (in / mm):

front: 42.3 / 1074
rear: 33.5 / 850

Headroom (in / mm):

front: 37.6 / 954
rear: 35.1 / 891

Shoulder room (in / mm):

front: 54.1 / 1375
rear: 51.1 / 1298

Hip room (in / mm):

front: 54.1 / 1374
rear: 44.5 / 1131


Drivetrain

Unlike the CTS-V, which used a supercharged V-8 engine, the ATS-V is motivated by a twin-turbocharged, 3.6-liter V-6, making it the first V-Series model to feature twin-turbo power. Rated at 455 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque, the force-fed V-6 is also the highest-output six-banger in its segment, outgunning the BMW M4's 3.0-liter inline-six by 30 ponies and 39 pound-feet of twist.

Although the engine is far from new, it does include numerous features specifically designed for the ATS-V. The turbochargers are equipped with low-inertia titanium turbines for more responsive torque, while low-volume, charge-cooling system maximizes boost pressure. Additionally, the lightweight titanium connecting rods reduce the inertia of the rotating assembly, while the compressors are matched for peak efficiency at peak power levels, a feat that should make a difference on the track. Lastly, the engine includes a high-performance lubrication system that maintains oil pressure and ventilation at optimal levels during high-speed lateral maneuvers.

The ATS-V is not just amazingly powerful, but blistering quick too. The coupe needs only 3.9 seconds to hit 60 mph from a standing start, making it two-tenths of a second faster than the manual M4 and on par with the automatic M4. When compared to the V-8-powered Audi RS5, the ATS-V reaches the benchmark 0.3 seconds quicker. Amazingly enough, the coupe is also as fast as the 2015 Corvette Stingray from naught to 60 mph. As far as top speed goes, this Caddy can reach more than 185 mph, a figure that places it above its German rivals. The M4 is electronically limited at 155 mph, while the RS5 will hit 174 mph.

The ATS-V offers two different transmissions for the twin-turbo, 3.6-liter V-6. Customers that like to shift their own gears can opt for a six-speed manual with Active Rev Match, no-lift shifting and launch control. Those that could go without a stick can have the ATS-V equipped with an eight-speed automatic. The latter comes with launch control, Performance Algorithm Shift and paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.

Drivetrain Specifications

Displacement (cu in / cc):

217 / 3564

Bore & stroke (in / mm):

3.7 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6

Block material:

cast aluminum

Cylinder head material:

cast aluminum

Valvetrain:

DOHC, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing

Fuel delivery:

direct high-pressure fuel injection

Compression ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower

455 HP @ 5,750 RPM (est.)

Torque

445 LB-FT @ 3,500 RPM (est.)

Recommended fuel:

premium

Max engine speed (rpm):

6500

Estimated fuel economy (city / hwy):

TBD

Top speed

185 mph

0 to 60 mph

3.9 seconds


Suspension and Brakes

We already know the ATS-V Coupe is impressive as far as performance goes, but how about handling? Is the ATS-V the track-ready coupe Cadillac claims it to be? Apparently yes, because the vehicle uses a comprehensively redesigned chassis, as well as updated suspension systems and a host of race-bred components.

Cadillac's third-generation Magnetic Ride Control delivers 40-percent faster damping response, while the optimized structure provides a 25-percent greater structural stiffness when compared to the standard ATS. The result is a more precise handling and more direct steering response, two feats customers will greatly appreciate on both the road and the track.

The brand-new ATS-V Coupe uses a revised multi-link, double-pivot, MacPherson-strut front suspension and a five-link rear suspension optimized for reduced roll and stronger lateral control. Stiffer bushings, new cradle mounts, higher-rate springs and stiffer stabilizer bars are also included in the package. Additionally, the Performance Traction Management system comes with five driver-selectable settings, including a competition-level configuration for maximum stability and traction control, a segment-first feature according to Cadillac.

Stopping power comes from a high-performance Brembo braking system. 14.5-inch rotors with six-piston calipers sit up front, while 13.3-inch rotors and four-piston calipers take care of the rear axle.

Prices

The 2016 ATS-V Coupe is priced from $63,660 and will be put on sale in April, 2015. The standard ATS Coupe is priced from $37,995. Production of the high-performance coupe will begin in spring 2015.

Competitors

BMW M4

The BMW M4 is the No. 1 competitor on Cadillac's list when it comes to the ATS-V Coupe. Introduced for the 2015 model year, the M4 features a new design, a revamped interior, and a new engine. Gone is the naturally aspirated, 4.4-liter V-8 from the M3 Coupe and in comes a more powerful and fuel-efficient, 3.0-liter inline-six. Gifted with the company's TwinPower Turbo technology, the powerplant is rated at 425 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, a hefty improvement over the thirsty V-8.

That's enough to send the coupe flying from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.1 seconds with a six-speed manual and in a lightning-fast 3.9 seconds with the seven-speed M Double Clutch automatic. As with most BMWs, top speed is electronically limited at 155 mph no matter the gearbox. Pricing for the 2015 BMW M4 begins from $64,200.

Audi RS5

The current Audi RS5 is nearly five years old as of 11/19/2014, but the high-performance coupe gained a few nips and tucks for the 2014 model year. That should keep it fresh for a few more years, just enough to go against the ATS-V Coupe before a new generation comes along. While the RS5's exterior is a matter of taste, its interior is one of the best in the segment, successfully blending sportiness and luxury. The race-inspired seats, the carbon-fiber inlays and the huge amount of technology will keep bringing customers to Audi dealerships.

Power is yet another persuasive factor, as the 4.2-liter V-8 cranks out 450 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of twist. Sure, the four-ringed coupe lags behind both the BMW and the Caddy in the torque department, but the 450 ponies and the fact the RS5 is still carrying a V-8 under the hood are two selling points very few enthusiasts can ignore. Mated to a seven-speed, S-tronic automatic, the engines pushes the coupe from naught to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and onto a top speed of 174 mph. The RS5 retails from $69,600.

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

Although there's a brand-new C-Class coming in dealerships, the ATS-V Coupe will have to wait a bit longer to meet the redesigned version of the C63 AMG Coupe. In the meantime, the Germans are still offering the model based on the previous W204 C-Class. That's not bad news if you're a fan of AMG's enormous, 6.2-liter, V-8 engine and the 451 ponies that come with it. A bit slower than its BMW and Audi counterparts, the 2014 C63 AMG needs 4.4 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standing start, while top speed sits at 155 mph.

These figures will change over the next couple of years, as will the V-8 heart hidden under the hood. The next-gen will arrive with a smaller, biturbo, 4.0-liter V-8, but with more power and torque, as well as improved performance. Until that happens, customers can take a 2014 C63 AMG home for at least $62,750.

Conclusion

2014 has been a great year for American performance cars. Both the Corvette Z06 and the Challenger/Charger Hellcat "twins" went on sale, enabling both GM and Chrysler to offer vehicles with unprecedented levels of power. The ATS-V Coupe is proof that GM is on a streak as far as performance cars go, with similar versions of the CTS to follow in 2015.

The ATS-V is quite impressive on paper. Although it uses a twin-turbo V-6 and not the supercharged V-8 some of us were hoping for, the ATS-V is not only the most powerful vehicle of its segment, but also the quickest, a feat it shares with the BMW M4. Cadillac also claims the ATS-V Coupe is capable of holding its own on a race track and the revised chassis components come to back that statement.

While I'd love to see the ATS-V Coupe rise above the BMW M4, the highly anticipated battle won't commence until spring 2015, which means we'll have no choice but to wait. Either way, if you're looking for a high-performance compact with an American badge, the ATS-V Coupe looks to be the best bet on paper.