Cadillac had started the development of a new modular platform, with rear-wheel drive, that will be used for the production of large vehicles ranging from E to F-segments. According to Car and Driver, General Motors would like to introduce a new Cadillac flagship with an exclusive dedicated architecture: the Omega platform. The saloon is scheduled for 2015 and will be offered in standard and long wheelbase versions.

The standard engine will be a 3.5-litre V6 with output of 310 hp, also available in supercharged variant along with a V8 engine and a hybrid solution. The current four-speed automatic transmission will be replaced by an all-new and most efficient eight-speed gearbox. The Omega structure could also serve as the basis to build a spectacular four-door convertible anticipated by the Cadillac Ciel.

Cadillac has unveiled the European premiere of the new ATS at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The American saloon could easily rival the Germans, which crowd the fierce D-segment market, establishing itself as a breakthrough for the brand Cadillac.

Comfortable yet sporty, the car is equipped with the Magnetic Ride Control (an adaptive damper, that reads the road every 5 seconds), which allows maximum comfort and excellent driving pleasure while keeping a great grip under any conditions. It mounts a multi-link double-pivot MacPherson strut front suspension and five-link independent rear suspension.

The ATS comes with a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder 2.5-litre engine with an output of 200 hp, a 2-litre turbocharged boasting 270 hp and a 3.6 litre V6 with 318 hp. The gearbox comes as a six-speed manual or an automatic six-speed Hydra Matic. The weight of the car is 1,542 kg, equally divided between the two axles of the car to maximize driving satisfaction.

View the full Cadillac ATS -Geneva Motor Show 2012 photo gallery.

Cadillac has released a new set of official images picturing the new ATS, recently unveiled at the 2012 NAIAS in Detroit. In order to get the best possible engine-chassis package, the model underwent a long period of testing on the famous Nurburgring track, which should have provided it with the sort of personality and sporty attitude that its designers were looking for.

The Cadillac ATS is available with three petrol engine options: a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder producing 200 hp at 6,200 rpm with 255 Nm of peak torque at 4,500 rpm, a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder unit delivering 270 hp at 5,300 rpm and 352 Nm of peak torque from 2,400 rpm, and a 3.6-litre V6 generating 318 hp at 6,800 rpm with 362 Nm of peak torque already available at 4,900 rpm. There are two transmission options: a 6-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed Hydra Matic auto.

Among the most distinctive features of the model we have the Magnetic Ride Control, which continuously optimizes the suspension set-up to ensure maximum stability and control at all times, its 17 ” alloys (which can be replaced by 19″ rims on the most exclusive variants) Cadillac’s own CUE technology, which provides for all the infotainment and connectivity options that you might expect, and is controlled by a 8″ LCD touch-screen placed on the central console.

Cadillac presents its Superbowl ad dedicated to the brand new ATS sedan, a model that has been introduced to the world at the recent 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The ad features footage of the ATS taken during several stages of its development at the Nurburgring - going from the typical ‘disguised mule’ stage until the final product - and makes no mystery of the fact that the ATS has been designed and built to compete with its most fierce rival: BMW 3-Series. This commercial is called ‘Green Hell’, which is the nickname of the famous German track.

The ATS will initially be available with three petrol engine options: a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder producing 200 hp and 255 Nm of torque, a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder unit delivering 270 hp and 352 Nm of peak torque and a 3.6-litre V6 generating 318 hp and 362 Nm, all of which mated to either a manual or an automatic 6-speed transmission. Cadillac has already confirmed that the ATS will soon get a diesel engine too, but no further details on the matter have been released.

Cadillac releases two new videos starring the recently unveiled ATS (watch the second one after the jump), the model that is about to challenge the more prestigious European cars in a class that has always been among the most competitive of the market. The model has been developed in good part in Europe, promises to be fun to drive and, in terms of comfort and luxury, it maintains the usual high standards that are typical of the American carmaker.

The model will initially be available with three petrol engine options: a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder producing 200 hp and 255 Nm of torque, a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder unit delivering 270 hp and 352 Nm of peak torque and a 3.6-litre V6 generating 318 hp at 6,800 rpm with 362 Nm of maximum torque already available at 4,900 rpm. All these units can be coupled to either a manual or an automatic 6-speed transmission.

Cadillac releases an official video documenting the unveiling of its new ATS sedan at Detroit’s College for Creative Studies, right before the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. As previously reported, the new model will take on the market with three petrol engine options: a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder producing 200 hp at 6,200 rpm with 255 Nm of peak torque at 4,500 rpm, a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder unit delivering 270 hp at 5,300 rpm and 352 Nm of peak torque from 2,400 rpm and a 3.6-litre V6 generating 318 hp at 6,800 rpm with 362 Nm of peak torque already available at 4,900 rpm. All these units will come with either a manual or an automatic 6-speed gearbox, while both rear- and all-wheel drive will be available for the model.

However, during the official presentation of the model, GM’s North American President, Mark Reuss confirmed that the ATS will soon get a diesel engine too, although no further details about this unit have been made available.

View the full Cadillac ATS at the 2012 NAIAS photo gallery
View the full 2013 Cadillac ATS photo gallery

Here are a few pictures of the new Cadillac ATS taken live at the North American International Auto Show. The model will be initially available with three petrol engine options (all of which can be coupled to either a manual or an automatic 6-speed transmission): a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder producing 200 hp at 6,200 rpm with 255 Nm of peak torque at 4,500 rpm, a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder unit delivering 270 hp at 5,300 rpm and 352 Nm of peak torque from 2,400 rpm and a 3.6-litre V6 generating 318 hp at 6,800 rpm with 362 Nm of peak torque already available at 4,900 rpm. The new ATS uses a 5-link independent rear suspension (a solution that has never been used by the American carmaker before). In the cabin, the ATS makes use of top notch materials and handicraft, with real wood, plated metal and carbon fiber trim. Obviously there are also all sorts of connectivity options and electronic trickery you might expect n a car of this leverage. If you want to know more about the 2013 Cadillac ATS, check the official Press Release and technical specs after the jump.

View the full Cadillac ATS at the 2012 NAIAS photo gallery
View the full 2013 Cadillac ATS photo gallery

2013 Cadillac ATS Challenges the Status Quo

• All-new, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive architecture with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg)
• Broad lineup of engines, including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America, capitalizes on lightweight structure for performance with efficiency
• Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data

DETROIT – Cadillac today introduced the 2013 ATS, an all-new compact luxury sports sedan intended to challenge the world’s best premium cars. Developed on an all-new, lightweight vehicle architecture, Cadillac’s entry into the world’s most significant luxury car segment goes on sale this summer.

The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.

“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo.”

The Cadillac ATS is a new expression of Cadillac’s Art & Science execution philosophy, built on a foundation of driving dynamics and mass efficiency. It is the most agile and lightweight Cadillac, with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg).

Germany’s famed Nürburgring served as one of the key testing grounds, along with additional roads, racetracks and laboratories around the globe, ATS engineers balanced performance with Cadillac’s trademark refinement. Contributing components and features include:
• Nearly 50/50 weight balance
• Cadillac’s first five-link independent rear suspension using lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs
• A multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar
• Driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension with Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping
• Underbody aerodynamic shields
• Premium (belt driven) electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems
• Four-channel ABS with available Brembo performance brakes
• Available all-wheel drive

“More than just another new entry, the ATS aims to change the status quo of the European-dominated segment,” said Butler. “That is why our approach in all elements of its development is so extensive and focused.”

A broad lineup of engines – including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America – delivers strong power to the ATS and capitalizes on the car’s lightweight structure to complement its performance with efficiency. The optional engines include an all-new 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 270 horsepower (201 kW) and Cadillac’s award-winning 3.6L V-6, estimated at 318 horsepower (237 kW).

At 135hp/L, the new 2.0T is one of the most power-dense engines in the industry, topping engines from European competitors. ATS will offer both manual and automatic transmission options, along with rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations.

The ATS will deliver peak highway fuel economy of more than 30 mpg.

A spirit of lightness and balance

Making the ATS one of the segment’s lightest cars was a fundamental criterion for and the guiding principle during its development, but it was done in a nuanced manner that ensures a refined driving experience.

“Low weight gives the ATS a more nimble and controllable feel, while also optimizing the performance and efficiency of the powertrains,” said David Masch, ATS chief engineer. “But we were careful to manage the weight while maintaining Cadillac’s signature levels of refinement.”

Optimizing the ATS’s mass was the result of a four-pronged philosophy that included strict adherence to original architectural goals, measured load management throughout the vehicle, benchmarking components to see if lighter solutions were available and an overall culture that “weighed” the mass of every component in the car against all aspects of its development.

An aluminum hood, magnesium engine mount brackets and even lightweight, natural-fiber door trim panels contribute to the ATS’s low overall mass – and reflect the systematic approach of evaluating every gram that went into the car. But some weight was deemed not only beneficial, but essential to the ATS’s driving experience. An example is the cast iron differential: Engineers found they could improve fuel economy with a cast iron differential rather than a lighter aluminum version.

And while the rear suspension is mostly steel, the focus on load management and straight links enabled significant weight savings without using alternate materials. This helps offset the weight of the engine and transmission at the front of the vehicle, helping the ATS deliver its near-perfect 50/50 weight balance, while also contributing to lower noise and vibration. A similar approach was taken on the wheels, where extra structural aluminum was strategically added to further reduce vibration.

“We approached development by counting all the grams in the ATS,” said Masch. “We minimized them where we could and put them to the best use where they were needed.”

Tailored design weaves in signature style and refinement
The 2013 Cadillac ATS interprets Cadillac’s Art & Science design language in a new proportion, tailoring the signature styling and refinement cues for the most compact Cadillac while upholding – and advancing – the exemplary attention to detail and technological elements for which the brand is known.

A long, 109.3-inch (2,775 mm) wheelbase and wide front/rear tracks are the cornerstones of the ATS’s firmly planted stance, which is enhanced by short overhangs and taut sheet metal that appears to wrap tightly around the tires. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard and 18-inch wheels are available.

Bold vertical lighting elements – including new LED front signature lighting detail – as well as illuminating door handles and active grille shutters lend technologically advanced style and function to the ATS. The grille shutters close at certain highway speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag and enhance fuel economy.

A driver-focused interior with integrated technology and crafted materials complements the exterior elements and supports the ATS’s driving experience. Everything from the placement of the pedals to the position of the shifter is designed for effortless and intuitive performance driving. Available performance seats have power-adjustable bolsters to optimize lateral support during high-load cornering.

Contributing to the interior’s intuitive feel is an instrument panel that wraps into the doors and a center stack in the mid-instrument panel that flows into the center console. LED lighting for the bold gauge cluster enables clear, at-a-glance viewing in all lighting conditions, while ambient lighting accents functional elements of the console and doors.

Real wood, plated metal plating and carbon fiber trim and Cadillac’s cut-and-sew cut-and-sew instrument panel, console and doors enhance the emotional connection to the ATS. Choices of many interior color themes, each with unique accent trim material, cover a wide range of flavors – from light, open and warm to black and serious, to bold, technical and sporty.

CUE and ATS technologies
The ATS is offered with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data. It is designed to be unique for each consumer, from the “simple user” to the fully connected “super user.”

CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, pairs entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players with a vehicle infotainment system that reduces complexity through customized information, voice commands and fewer buttons and larger icons. For example, most of today’s luxury cars have around 20 buttons controlling the radio and entertainment functions. CUE has only four.

The heart of CUE is the eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen, seamlessly integrated into the top of the central instrument panel and a motorized fully capacitive faceplate at the bottom concealing a 1.8L storage area. The vibrant LCD screen displays CUE’s home page, which resembles a smart phone’s screen by using large, easy-to-target icons to execute commands. Capacitive technology refers to using electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects, such as a finger.

In addition to CUE, the ATS is offered with other technologies, including:
• Bluetooth phone connectivity with voice recognition
• USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio with three-month trial subscription
• Keyless access and keyless push-button start
• Reconfigurable 5.7-inch instrument panel cluster display
• Full-color reconfigurable heads-up display.

The ATS is offered as a well-equipped standard model and in Luxury, Performance and Premium Collections. A Bose® Cabin Surround audio system is offered on the standard model, as well as Luxury and Performance Collections. It is standard with the Premium Collection. A navigation system is also available with Luxury and Performance Collections and standard with the Premium Collection.

‘Control and alert’ safety strategy
Safety in the ATS is based on Cadillac’s “control and alert” strategy that employs advanced technologies – including radar, cameras and ultrasonic sensors – to help prevent crashes.

The safety features bolster driver vision and awareness of road hazards, and intervenes to help the driver avert potential crashes. In some cases, Cadillac’s advanced crash-avoidance systems will act without the driver, such as automatic braking, which will activate based on information indicating potential hazards.

Among the most sophisticated of the features is Front and Rear Automatic Brakes. This relies on short-range radar technology and ultrasonic sensors to help the driver prevent front and rear low-speed collisions via a progression of alerts that extend to complete braking, if necessary.

Optional advanced safety features include:
• Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control
• Intelligent Brake Assist
• Forward Collision Alert
• Brake Pre-Fill Automatic Collision Preparation
• Lane Departure Warning
• Side Blind Zone Alert
• Rear Vision Camera With Dynamic Guidelines
• Adaptive Forward Lighting
• Hill Hold/Start Assist (Standard, manual transmission)

The advanced technology safety features complement the ATS’s roster of other safety features, including eight standard air bags (10 with optional features), safety belt pretensioners and load limiters, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control and four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS.

ATS also features OnStar standard for one year. It can use GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of a crash. OnStar service also includes myCadillac and OnStar myLink mobile apps, which offer vehicle information, controls and OnStar services via the customer’s iPhone or Android smart phone.

About Cadillac
Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.

2013 CADILLAC ATS PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
Overview
Model: Cadillac ATS Sedan
Body style / driveline: 4-door luxury sport luxury sedan, RWD/AWD
Construction: Unitized welded steel body with direct-mounted front cradle and rubber-isolated, multi-link independent rear suspension
EPA vehicle class: small car
Manufacturing location: Lansing Grand River Assembly, Lansing, Mich.

Engines
2.0L Turbo DI VVT 2.5L I-4 DI VVT 3.6L V-6 DI VVT
Displacement (cu in / cc): 122 / 1998 150 / 2457 217 / 3564
Bore & stroke (in / mm): 3.39 x 3.39 / 86 x 86 3.46 x 3.97 / 88 x 101 3.7 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6
Block material: cast aluminum cast aluminum cast aluminum
Cylinder head material: cast aluminum cast aluminum cast aluminum
Valvetrain: DOHC, four-valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing DOHC, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing DOHC, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing
Fuel delivery: direct high-pressure fuel injection direct high-pressure fuel injection direct high-pressure fuel injection
Compression ratio: 9.2:1 11.4:1 11.5:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 270 / 201 @ 5300 (est) 200 / 149 @ 6200 (est) 318 / 237 @ 6800 (est - gas)
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): 260 / 353 @ 2400 (est) 188 / 255 @ 4500 (est) 267 / 362 @ 4900 (est - gas)
Recommended fuel: premium recommended but not required regular unleaded regular unleaded or E85
Maximum engine speed (rpm): 6350 7000 7200
Estimated fuel economy: TBD TBD TBD

Transmissions
Tremec M3L TR3160 Hydra-Matic 6L45
Type: fully synchronized six-speed manual with single overdrive six-speed, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive with torque converter clutch
Gear ratios (:1):
First: 4.12 4.06
Second: 2.62 2.37
Third: 1.81 1.55
Fourth: 1.30 1.16
Fifth: 1.00 0.85
Sixth: 0.80 0.67
Reverse: 3.75 3.20
Final drive ratio: 3.27 3.27 (2.5L, 3.6L)
3.45 (2.0T)

Chassis / Suspension
Configuration: rear-wheel drive
Differential: open (FE2 suspension); mechanical limited-slip (FE3 suspension)
Front: MacPherson-type with dual lower ball joints and direct-acting stabilizer bar; Magnetic Ride Control (FE3)
Rear: independent five-link with monotube shock absorbers; Magnetic Ride Control (FE3)
Steering type: ZF rack-mounted electric, power-assisted and variable assist
Steering ratio: FE2: 16.8:1
FE3: 15.3:1
Steering turns, lock-to-lock: FE2: 3.16
FE3: 2.86
Turn circle (ft / m): FE2 RWD: 36.38 / 11.09
FE3 RWD: 35.99 / 10.97
FE2 AWD: 38.05 / 11.60
Chassis control: four-channel StabiliTrak w/ brake assist and traction control

Wheels and Tires
Wheel size and type: 17×8-inch aluminum (painted)
17×8-inch aluminum (polished)
18×8-inch aluminum (machined-face)
18×8-inch aluminum (polished)
Tire size: P225/45R17 90H all-season
P225/45R17 90V run-flat all-season
225/40R18 92V run-flat all-season
225/40R18 88W / 255/35R18 90W run-flat summer-only
225/35ZR19 88Y / 255/30ZR19 91Y run-flat all-season (LPO)

Brakes
Type: four-wheel disc with sliding calipers on base; four-channel ABS/TCS w/ DRP; Brembo brakes with fixed calipers on Luxury, Performance and Premium collections
Rotor type and thickness (in / mm): Standard front: 11.8 x 1.02 (300 x 26) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance
Standard rear: 12.4 x 0.90 (315 x 23) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance
Uplevel front: 12.6 x 1.18 (321 x 30) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance
Uplevel rear: 12.4 x 0.90 (315 x 23) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance

Dimensions

Exterior
Wheelbase (in / mm): 109.3 / 2775
Length (in / mm): 182.8 / 4643
Height (in / mm): 55.9 / 1421
Width (in / mm): 71.1 / 1805
Track (in / mm): front: 59.5 / 1512
rear: 60.9 / 1548
Curb weight (lb / kg): less than 3,400 / 1,542 (approx.)
Weight distribution (% front / rear): 51 / 49

Interior
Legroom (in / mm): front: 42.5 / 1079
rear: 33.5 / 851
Headroom (in / mm): front: 38.6 / 980
rear: 36.8 / 935
Shoulder room (in / mm): front: 55.2 / 1345
rear: 53.9 / 1370
Hip room (in / mm): front: 53.0 / 1345
rear: 52.3 / 1328

Capacities
Seating capacity (front / rear): 2 / 3
EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L): 90.9 / 2573
EPA trunk volume (cu ft / L): 10.2 / 290
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg): 1000 / 454 (3.6L)
Fuel tank (gal / L): 16 / 60.5
Engine oil (qt / L): TBD
Cooling system (qt / L): 8.1 / 7.7 (2.0T)
7.1 / 6.7 (2.5L)
11 / 10.4 (3.6L)

The first official images of the 2013 Cadillac ATS have been unleashed on the internet, just a handful of hours ahead of its physical unveiling in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show. The highly anticipated model will be given the burdensom task of taking on BMW’s 3-Series in one of the toughest segment of the market, and this time it will have to do that in Eurpoe too. However, from an aesthetic point of view, the car doesn’t seem to offer any particular novelty, retaining the typical Cadillac styling and sticking to the design language adopted by the CTS.

There will be three petrol engine options for the new ATS: a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder producing 200 hp at 6,200 rpm with 255 Nm of peaj torque at 4,500 rpm, a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder unit delivering 270 hp at 5,300 rpm and 352 Nm of peak torque from 2,400 rpm and a 3.6-litre V6 generating 318 hp at 6,800 rpm with 362 Nm of peak torque already available at 4,900 rpm. The whole lot can be mated to either manual or automatic 6-speed manual transmission. Another remarkable highlight for the model is its all-new 5-link independent rear suspension, a solution that has never been used by the American carmaker before.

As for the interior, the ATS makes use of top notch materials and handicraft, with real wood, plated metal and carbon fiber trim. Obviously there are all sorts of connectivity options thanks to Cadillac’s own CUE technology, that can be easily controlled by a 8″ LCD touchscreen. if you want to know more about the 2013 Cadillac ATS, please check the official Press Release after the jump.

View the full 2013 Cadillac ATS photo gallery

2013 Cadillac ATS Challenges the Status Quo

• All-new, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive architecture with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg)
• Broad lineup of engines, including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America, capitalizes on lightweight structure for performance with efficiency
• Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data

DETROIT – Cadillac today introduced the 2013 ATS, an all-new compact luxury sports sedan intended to challenge the world’s best premium cars. Developed on an all-new, lightweight vehicle architecture, Cadillac’s entry into the world’s most significant luxury car segment goes on sale this summer.

The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.

“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo.”

The Cadillac ATS is a new expression of Cadillac’s Art & Science execution philosophy, built on a foundation of driving dynamics and mass efficiency. It is the most agile and lightweight Cadillac, with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg).

Germany’s famed Nürburgring served as one of the key testing grounds, along with additional roads, racetracks and laboratories around the globe, ATS engineers balanced performance with Cadillac’s trademark refinement. Contributing components and features include:
• Nearly 50/50 weight balance
• Cadillac’s first five-link independent rear suspension using lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs
• A multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar
• Driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension with Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping
• Underbody aerodynamic shields
• Premium (belt driven) electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems
• Four-channel ABS with available Brembo performance brakes
• Available all-wheel drive

“More than just another new entry, the ATS aims to change the status quo of the European-dominated segment,” said Butler. “That is why our approach in all elements of its development is so extensive and focused.”

A broad lineup of engines – including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America – delivers strong power to the ATS and capitalizes on the car’s lightweight structure to complement its performance with efficiency. The optional engines include an all-new 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 270 horsepower (201 kW) and Cadillac’s award-winning 3.6L V-6, estimated at 318 horsepower (237 kW).

At 135hp/L, the new 2.0T is one of the most power-dense engines in the industry, topping engines from European competitors. ATS will offer both manual and automatic transmission options, along with rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations.

The ATS will deliver peak highway fuel economy of more than 30 mpg.

A spirit of lightness and balance

Making the ATS one of the segment’s lightest cars was a fundamental criterion for and the guiding principle during its development, but it was done in a nuanced manner that ensures a refined driving experience.

“Low weight gives the ATS a more nimble and controllable feel, while also optimizing the performance and efficiency of the powertrains,” said David Masch, ATS chief engineer. “But we were careful to manage the weight while maintaining Cadillac’s signature levels of refinement.”

Optimizing the ATS’s mass was the result of a four-pronged philosophy that included strict adherence to original architectural goals, measured load management throughout the vehicle, benchmarking components to see if lighter solutions were available and an overall culture that “weighed” the mass of every component in the car against all aspects of its development.

An aluminum hood, magnesium engine mount brackets and even lightweight, natural-fiber door trim panels contribute to the ATS’s low overall mass – and reflect the systematic approach of evaluating every gram that went into the car. But some weight was deemed not only beneficial, but essential to the ATS’s driving experience. An example is the cast iron differential: Engineers found they could improve fuel economy with a cast iron differential rather than a lighter aluminum version.

And while the rear suspension is mostly steel, the focus on load management and straight links enabled significant weight savings without using alternate materials. This helps offset the weight of the engine and transmission at the front of the vehicle, helping the ATS deliver its near-perfect 50/50 weight balance, while also contributing to lower noise and vibration. A similar approach was taken on the wheels, where extra structural aluminum was strategically added to further reduce vibration.

“We approached development by counting all the grams in the ATS,” said Masch. “We minimized them where we could and put them to the best use where they were needed.”

Tailored design weaves in signature style and refinement
The 2013 Cadillac ATS interprets Cadillac’s Art & Science design language in a new proportion, tailoring the signature styling and refinement cues for the most compact Cadillac while upholding – and advancing – the exemplary attention to detail and technological elements for which the brand is known.

A long, 109.3-inch (2,775 mm) wheelbase and wide front/rear tracks are the cornerstones of the ATS’s firmly planted stance, which is enhanced by short overhangs and taut sheet metal that appears to wrap tightly around the tires. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard and 18-inch wheels are available.

Bold vertical lighting elements – including new LED front signature lighting detail – as well as illuminating door handles and active grille shutters lend technologically advanced style and function to the ATS. The grille shutters close at certain highway speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag and enhance fuel economy.

A driver-focused interior with integrated technology and crafted materials complements the exterior elements and supports the ATS’s driving experience. Everything from the placement of the pedals to the position of the shifter is designed for effortless and intuitive performance driving. Available performance seats have power-adjustable bolsters to optimize lateral support during high-load cornering.

Contributing to the interior’s intuitive feel is an instrument panel that wraps into the doors and a center stack in the mid-instrument panel that flows into the center console. LED lighting for the bold gauge cluster enables clear, at-a-glance viewing in all lighting conditions, while ambient lighting accents functional elements of the console and doors.

Real wood, plated metal plating and carbon fiber trim and Cadillac’s cut-and-sew cut-and-sew instrument panel, console and doors enhance the emotional connection to the ATS. Choices of many interior color themes, each with unique accent trim material, cover a wide range of flavors – from light, open and warm to black and serious, to bold, technical and sporty.

CUE and ATS technologies
The ATS is offered with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data. It is designed to be unique for each consumer, from the “simple user” to the fully connected “super user.”

CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, pairs entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players with a vehicle infotainment system that reduces complexity through customized information, voice commands and fewer buttons and larger icons. For example, most of today’s luxury cars have around 20 buttons controlling the radio and entertainment functions. CUE has only four.

The heart of CUE is the eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen, seamlessly integrated into the top of the central instrument panel and a motorized fully capacitive faceplate at the bottom concealing a 1.8L storage area. The vibrant LCD screen displays CUE’s home page, which resembles a smart phone’s screen by using large, easy-to-target icons to execute commands. Capacitive technology refers to using electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects, such as a finger.

In addition to CUE, the ATS is offered with other technologies, including:
• Bluetooth phone connectivity with voice recognition
• USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio with three-month trial subscription
• Keyless access and keyless push-button start
• Reconfigurable 5.7-inch instrument panel cluster display
• Full-color reconfigurable heads-up display.

The ATS is offered as a well-equipped standard model and in Luxury, Performance and Premium Collections. A Bose® Cabin Surround audio system is offered on the standard model, as well as Luxury and Performance Collections. It is standard with the Premium Collection. A navigation system is also available with Luxury and Performance Collections and standard with the Premium Collection.

‘Control and alert’ safety strategy
Safety in the ATS is based on Cadillac’s “control and alert” strategy that employs advanced technologies – including radar, cameras and ultrasonic sensors – to help prevent crashes.

The safety features bolster driver vision and awareness of road hazards, and intervenes to help the driver avert potential crashes. In some cases, Cadillac’s advanced crash-avoidance systems will act without the driver, such as automatic braking, which will activate based on information indicating potential hazards.

Among the most sophisticated of the features is Front and Rear Automatic Brakes. This relies on short-range radar technology and ultrasonic sensors to help the driver prevent front and rear low-speed collisions via a progression of alerts that extend to complete braking, if necessary.

Optional advanced safety features include:
• Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control
• Intelligent Brake Assist
• Forward Collision Alert
• Brake Pre-Fill Automatic Collision Preparation
• Lane Departure Warning
• Side Blind Zone Alert
• Rear Vision Camera With Dynamic Guidelines
• Adaptive Forward Lighting
• Hill Hold/Start Assist (Standard, manual transmission)

The advanced technology safety features complement the ATS’s roster of other safety features, including eight standard air bags (10 with optional features), safety belt pretensioners and load limiters, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control and four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS.

ATS also features OnStar standard for one year. It can use GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of a crash. OnStar service also includes myCadillac and OnStar myLink mobile apps, which offer vehicle information, controls and OnStar services via the customer’s iPhone or Android smart phone.

About Cadillac
Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.

2013 CADILLAC ATS PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
Overview
Model: Cadillac ATS Sedan
Body style / driveline: 4-door luxury sport luxury sedan, RWD/AWD
Construction: Unitized welded steel body with direct-mounted front cradle and rubber-isolated, multi-link independent rear suspension
EPA vehicle class: small car
Manufacturing location: Lansing Grand River Assembly, Lansing, Mich.

Engines
2.0L Turbo DI VVT 2.5L I-4 DI VVT 3.6L V-6 DI VVT
Displacement (cu in / cc): 122 / 1998 150 / 2457 217 / 3564
Bore & stroke (in / mm): 3.39 x 3.39 / 86 x 86 3.46 x 3.97 / 88 x 101 3.7 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6
Block material: cast aluminum cast aluminum cast aluminum
Cylinder head material: cast aluminum cast aluminum cast aluminum
Valvetrain: DOHC, four-valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing DOHC, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing DOHC, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing
Fuel delivery: direct high-pressure fuel injection direct high-pressure fuel injection direct high-pressure fuel injection
Compression ratio: 9.2:1 11.4:1 11.5:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 270 / 201 @ 5300 (est) 200 / 149 @ 6200 (est) 318 / 237 @ 6800 (est - gas)
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): 260 / 353 @ 2400 (est) 188 / 255 @ 4500 (est) 267 / 362 @ 4900 (est - gas)
Recommended fuel: premium recommended but not required regular unleaded regular unleaded or E85
Maximum engine speed (rpm): 6350 7000 7200
Estimated fuel economy: TBD TBD TBD

Transmissions
Tremec M3L TR3160 Hydra-Matic 6L45
Type: fully synchronized six-speed manual with single overdrive six-speed, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive with torque converter clutch
Gear ratios (:1):
First: 4.12 4.06
Second: 2.62 2.37
Third: 1.81 1.55
Fourth: 1.30 1.16
Fifth: 1.00 0.85
Sixth: 0.80 0.67
Reverse: 3.75 3.20
Final drive ratio: 3.27 3.27 (2.5L, 3.6L)
3.45 (2.0T)

Chassis / Suspension
Configuration: rear-wheel drive
Differential: open (FE2 suspension); mechanical limited-slip (FE3 suspension)
Front: MacPherson-type with dual lower ball joints and direct-acting stabilizer bar; Magnetic Ride Control (FE3)
Rear: independent five-link with monotube shock absorbers; Magnetic Ride Control (FE3)
Steering type: ZF rack-mounted electric, power-assisted and variable assist
Steering ratio: FE2: 16.8:1
FE3: 15.3:1
Steering turns, lock-to-lock: FE2: 3.16
FE3: 2.86
Turn circle (ft / m): FE2 RWD: 36.38 / 11.09
FE3 RWD: 35.99 / 10.97
FE2 AWD: 38.05 / 11.60
Chassis control: four-channel StabiliTrak w/ brake assist and traction control

Wheels and Tires
Wheel size and type: 17×8-inch aluminum (painted)
17×8-inch aluminum (polished)
18×8-inch aluminum (machined-face)
18×8-inch aluminum (polished)
Tire size: P225/45R17 90H all-season
P225/45R17 90V run-flat all-season
225/40R18 92V run-flat all-season
225/40R18 88W / 255/35R18 90W run-flat summer-only
225/35ZR19 88Y / 255/30ZR19 91Y run-flat all-season (LPO)

Brakes
Type: four-wheel disc with sliding calipers on base; four-channel ABS/TCS w/ DRP; Brembo brakes with fixed calipers on Luxury, Performance and Premium collections
Rotor type and thickness (in / mm): Standard front: 11.8 x 1.02 (300 x 26) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance
Standard rear: 12.4 x 0.90 (315 x 23) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance
Uplevel front: 12.6 x 1.18 (321 x 30) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance
Uplevel rear: 12.4 x 0.90 (315 x 23) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance

Dimensions

Exterior
Wheelbase (in / mm): 109.3 / 2775
Length (in / mm): 182.8 / 4643
Height (in / mm): 55.9 / 1421
Width (in / mm): 71.1 / 1805
Track (in / mm): front: 59.5 / 1512
rear: 60.9 / 1548
Curb weight (lb / kg): less than 3,400 / 1,542 (approx.)
Weight distribution (% front / rear): 51 / 49

Interior
Legroom (in / mm): front: 42.5 / 1079
rear: 33.5 / 851
Headroom (in / mm): front: 38.6 / 980
rear: 36.8 / 935
Shoulder room (in / mm): front: 55.2 / 1345
rear: 53.9 / 1370
Hip room (in / mm): front: 53.0 / 1345
rear: 52.3 / 1328

Capacities
Seating capacity (front / rear): 2 / 3
EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L): 90.9 / 2573
EPA trunk volume (cu ft / L): 10.2 / 290
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg): 1000 / 454 (3.6L)
Fuel tank (gal / L): 16 / 60.5
Engine oil (qt / L): TBD
Cooling system (qt / L): 8.1 / 7.7 (2.0T)
7.1 / 6.7 (2.5L)
11 / 10.4 (3.6L)

Cadillac takes inspiration from German automakers to release an aesthetic package for the CTS sedan, coupe and sport wagon equipped with V6 engines, called ‘Touring Package’. Its most distinctive features are the performance Recaro seats, microfiber suede-trimmed steering wheel rim and shift knob, aluminum pedals and its set of painted pearl nickel alloy wheels. The package also includes an exhaust system with double muffler, burnished front grille and more sporty suspension setting.

The Touring Package costs 2,065 $ for the CTS 3.0-litre e 2,810 $ for the CTS 3.6-litre, with also a 19″ polished aluminum wheels option for the latter. The CTS Model Year 2012 gets standard Bluetooth connectivity as well as RainSense Wipers whereas the coupe version receives the Side Blind Zone Alert on the top of that. More colors for the livery are also available, namely Opulent Blue Metallic, Black Diamond Tri-Coat and Mocha Steel Metallic.

View the full Cadillac CTS Touring Package photo gallery

via | Carscoop

Cadillac Honda Dealer Frank Kent Motor Company just opened a new showroom in Fort Worth, Texas, where they have been active since 1935, and to get the word out about it they decided to drop a Cadillac 60 from the 50s from a crane to the ground.

Here’s the video documenting the stunt, and we have to admit that if the goal was to create some hype around the opening, they surely hit the nail on the proverbial head.

via | CarScoop

Cadillac has released a new official video showing its upcoming ATS model testing at the Nurburgring. The new luxury sedan from the GM brand is bound to compete with the most prestigious European competitors in terms of both handling and performance, and in this video we can see it undergoing its final stage of testing wearing an almost definitive livery with camouflage paintjob.

The clip also gives us the chance to get a glimpse of the interior, which actually looks quite promising. Cadillac new ATS is expected to be launched in mid-2012 as a 2013 model.

The Chinese car market is a playground for European brands right now as reports out of America indicate that US luxury doesn’t appeal to the Chinese buyer. Specifically, and unsurprisingly, it’s the German brands that are enjoying a heyday, with Audi in particular gaining mighty ground last year.

The car industry in China grew by 33 percent in 2010, with luxury car manufacturers increasing sales by 75 percent. That might sound like simple statistics, but the figures talk and loudly for the Americans. According to market sales figures in the China car market, in 2010 Cadillac sold 17,000 vehicles in total last year which is a 139 percent increase for them.

In contrast, Audi sold 115,353 A6L sedans alone - yes that’s right, those are the sales figures for one make, let alone across the entire brand. Audi’s A4 was placed second on the sales list for single models with 58,466 models. Exactly what US car brands are going to do about this is anyone’s guess, but they’ve certainly got some chasing to do if they too want to take advantage of the boom in China.

Source | Autoblog.com