2018 Cadillac ATS Pros vs Cons

The 2018 Cadillac ATS goes head-to-head with today’s best compact sports sedans. Its amazing handling and eye-catching appearance will appeal to a lot of drivers. While the base model has a competitive price, thrill seekers should test drive the high-performance ATS-V model. If the ATS sedan doesn’t suit your taste, check out the coupe version.

What’s New for 2018?

Not much has changed for the 2018 model year. However, the sedan’s CUE infotainment system has received a few key updates. It is now a bit more user-friendly than before.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Cadillac ATS – The Pros

1. Base Engine Delivers the Fun

Don’t dismiss the sedan’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It delivers a healthy dose of performance and decent fuel efficiency. With a total of output of 272 horsepower, the engine always feels ready to perform. The base 2018 Cadillac ATS can hit 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, which is certainly quick enough for most folks.

2. Smooth Manual Transmission

Cadillac’s eight-speed automatic transmission performs very well. However, you also have access to a six-speed manual transmission. Drivers applaud the manual transmission’s preciseness and overall responsiveness. When accelerating on the highway, you will be able to smoothly shift from one gear to the next. The clutch is also easy to operate.

3. Beefy V6 Engine

Some drivers will crave the V6 engine’s brawny performance. Cadillac tuned it to develop an exhilarating 333 horsepower and 285 pound-feet of torque. The extra muscle enables the ATS to really move out in a hurry. Fortunately, you won’t have to give up much efficiency. In fact, the V6 engine matches the base engine’s 30-mpg highway fuel economy rating.

4. Unbelievably Good Handling

Some car gurus consider the 2018 Cadillac ATS to be the best-handling sedan in the segment. It carves the road like a legitimate sports car. True driving enthusiasts will certainly appreciate the sedan’s athleticism. Featuring a sports-tuned suspension and stickier tires, the V-Sport Performance Suspension Upgrade package gives you even more control of the road.

5. Thrilling ATS-V Model

From a performance standpoint, the ATS-V is among the most electrifying cars in its class. It comes equipped with a boosted V6 engine, which pounds out a sensational 464 horsepower. There is no overlooking the ATS-V’s speedy acceleration. With a proper launch, the sedan can clock a 0-60 time of 3.8 seconds. It also benefits from several other performance upgrades.

6. Razor-Sharp Exterior Styling

No other sports sedan looks like the 2018 Cadillac ATS. Among the sedan’s most noticeable styling cues is its angular headlights. You will also notice the car’s sharp body lines. Featuring a special set of dark-finish wheels and a black grille, the Carbon Black appearance package gives the ATS a ferocious road presence. Meanwhile, quad exhaust tips help separate the high-performance ATS-V from the other models.

7. Satisfying Base Model

Even if you settle for the base model, you won’t be disappointed. Its strong performance and high-quality interior will win over a lot of car shoppers. Some of the attractive standard features include a premium sound system, a 4G Wi-Fi hot spot, and smartphone integration. All-wheel drive is optional. With a competitive MSRP of $36,500, the base ATS certainly deserves some consideration.

8. Standard Premium Sound System

You won’t have to shell out extra money in order to have an enjoyable music-listening experience. The 2018 Cadillac ATS comes standard with a 10-speaker Bose sound system. Users give the unit high marks for its deep bass and lack of distortion. This premium sound system is destined to make your morning commute more entertaining.

9. Impressive, Five-Star Safety Rating

When evaluated by the federal government, the 2018 Cadillac ATS scored well in all of the most critical crash tests. Cadillac also provides plenty of technologies to help keep your passengers safe. A backup camera and GM’s award-winning OnStar emergency response system come standard. Some of the optional driving aids include automatic emergency braking, a vibrating Safety Alert Seat, and lane-change alert.

10. Teen Driver Mode

The standard Teen Driver Mode is a feature that gives parents an extra peace of mind. You can use this cutting-edge technology to monitor your teenager’s driving habits and track their specific location. It can also restrict new drivers from traveling over a certain speed limit.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Cadillac ATS – The Cons

1. Tight Rear Seat

If you have a growing family, the 2018 Cadillac ATS may not be the most suitable choice. Its cramped rear seat could cause some concern. While small children will have no trouble fitting in the back, teens will desire a bit more legroom. The new 2018 BMW 3 Series features a far more spacious backseat.

2. High-Powered ATS-V Will Cost You Extra

The exciting ATS-V model is a lot more expensive than the other trims. It has a MSRP of nearly $70,000, which may be too steep for some car shoppers. Adding certain options will cause the car’s final cost to rise. You should also consider the ATS-V’s lower fuel economy. It is rated to return a mediocre 17 mpg in the city and up to 25 mpg on the highway.

3. Firm Seats

Most people will find the sedan’s seats to be relaxing. Nevertheless, they are not as plush as traditional Cadillac seats. Drivers who have previously owned a Cadillac vehicle will immediately notice the difference. The optional Recaro sport seats have an even firmer feel.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Some of the primary rivals include the 2018 BMW 3 Series and the 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300. A stronger base engine gives the 2018 Cadillac ATS a key advantage of its European counterparts. Furthermore, many automotive journalists rank the ATS as the best-handling sports sedan in the segment.

Conclusion:

The 2018 Cadillac ATS is a balanced driving machine that offers plenty of performance. If you have some extra money to spare, the powerful ATS-V is bound to get your adrenaline pumping. Meanwhile, the two-door model is perfect for the folks who prefer the look of a coupe. Although the ATS lacks a spacious backseat, it still manages to offer a luxurious driving experience.