It would have been easy for General Motors (Cadillac's parent company) to develop a cut down CTS or modify the platform that underpins the Opel Insignia, but to compete with the 'Big Three' GM knew it had to create a brand new platform that was honed at the Nürburgring to offer European levels of handling and refinement. With this in mind the ATS rides on a combination of independent rear suspension with MacPherson struts up front and features a magnetic ride control system that can be adjusted by the driver for a sportier feel.
In addition to the Nürburgring finishing school the ATS was also put onto an un-American diet of aluminium, magnesium and other weight-saving technologies meaning it weighs in less than its competitors and has a near perfect 50:50 weight distribution.
At launch three engines will be offered: a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo with 270hp, a 2.5-litre, 200hp four-cylinder and a 3.6-litre V6 with 320hp. Customers have the choice of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
No word yet on whether or not the ATS will come to Ireland, but if it does Cadillac will need to add a diesel engine to the line-up to entice buyers out of their 320ds and Audi A4 2.0 TDIs.
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