The 2016 Cadillac ATS-V lineup is the brand’s latest salvo in the fight against the Germans, and if the standard ATS lineup is anything to go by, it’s a direct shot at old BMW Ms and Mercedes AMGs.
Not that going mimicking old Ms and AMGs is a bad thing. In the finest American tradition, the ATS-V coupe and sedan is a case of sticking a relatively small car with a lot of power, here in modern twin-turbo V6 form with rear-wheel drive.
The ATS-V is also fitted with a traditionally subtle hood scoop, modest-looking wheels and a rather quiet rear spoiler. It all works well, without fussing up the ATS’ handsome lines. The modified spoiler and front clip on the coupe, however, does more to enhance the lines, while the slight Chevy Cruze-ness of the sedan seems to be emphasized on the V. Go figure.
Cadillac’s new head Johan de Nysschen made it clear GM is going to do everything it can to turn the tide against those who automatically equate “Cadillac” with “Florida.” It seems to be doing that in a very German way, filling the ATS-V with lots of power and lots of technology to make it a precise, 189-mph turbocharged sports sedan. And yet there’s a certain elegance retained, rather than the tech-nerd image of some rivals.
By Zac Estrada
Photos: Zac Estrada / Carscoops
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