Cadillac's->ke18 all-new ATS-V high-performance compact is now officially available at company dealers across the U.S., the luxury brand revealed in a statement. Cadillac dealers are accepting orders for both the ATS-V Sedan and ATS-V Coupe, with customers able to customize their cars using the manufacturer's official website starting April 2015.
The sedan carries a starting price of $61,460, which makes it competitive with its main target, the BMW M3.->ke2366 The ATS-V Coupe, on the other hand, wears a $63,600 sticker, $600 less than the BMW M4->ke4183 and $7,300 less than the Audi RS5.->ke2628 As a brief reminder, the ATS-V is motivated by a turbocharged, 3.6-liter V-6 mill that cranks out 455 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque. For reference, the M3/M4's 3.0-liter, inline-six churns 425 turbocharged ponies and 406 pound-feet, while the RS5's 4.2-liter V-8 generates 450 horses and 317 pound-feet.
Unlike the standard ATS, the ATS-V features a Brembo high-performance brake system, Performance Traction Management and integrated chassis controls, tri-compound tires, and a carbon-fiber hood -- among many other. Options include a track package for improved downforce and the Performance Data Recorder, which debuted on the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray.->ke4603
Click past the jump to read more about the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V.
Why it matters
It took Cadillac three years to launch a high-performance version of the ATS compact, but judging by its performance specs and race-bred features, it was worth waiting for. The ATS-V is not only the most powerful vehicle in its segment, but also tied for the quickest, with the BMW M3/M4. Of course, this statement will need a revision once the new Mercedes-AMG C63 reaches U.S. dealerships. What's more, Cadillac claims both the coupe and the sedan are capable of holding their own on a race track, and the new chassis components back that statement. Only time will tell if the ATS-V will become as successful as its German competitors, but, for now, enthusiasts can start placing their orders for the industry's latest performance, luxury compact.