When the world steps out in Louboutins, you rock your favorite Guiseppe Zinotti’s. That dare-to-be-different streak has gotten you places, and it’s exactly what Cadillac hopes will plant you behind the wheel of their new, 3-Series targeting ATS. Built off the success of its bigger-bodied CTS sibling, the ATS is marketed as a lighter, nimbler and slightly more affordable (though by no means “entry level”) offering; and it hits on every mark.
Sculpted in the same angular manner that has become Caddy’s latest design standard, the ATS delivers sharp, biting new flavor to a segment typically known for its 50 shades of vanilla. A virtual LED light show after dark (illuminated door handles ensure your rocks won’t mar the optional triple-flake paint) the cabin also lights up brilliantly from a very obvious commitment to detail. Elements such as the single line of contrasted stitching across the dash may be sweating the small stuff, but the end result is a luxury experience that won’t ever have you feeling like you “settled”; especially when you put your foot down. Under throttle, the ATS responds exuberantly; practically begging you for a faster, twistier of a session – and does so with a smoothness that makes 90mph feel like 60; make sure you’re looking your finest, just in case you have to have a roadside chat with your local Finest.
To further enhance its comfy confines, the sport sedan comes equipped with CUE, Cadillac’s latest infotainment center and hi-res GUI. Easy to configure and learn, the system allows for total control of navi, phone, media and more; via voice command or a touch screen that actually delivers a little push-back for validation. (And who doesn’t enjoy a little push-back?) Inside and out, it’s a newcomer that may not yet be commonly coveted like a red-bottom, but for you different-drummer types, the ATS represents a new face of automotive style; one that’s completely capable of administering a serious spanking to the competition. If you’re into that sort of thing.
Optional Specs:
Power: 3.6L V6 – 321 HP, 275 lb.-ft.
EPA Fuel Economy: 19 City/28 Hwy
Price as Tested: $49,185
