So, dial up the speed, and the results speak for themselves: you feel a car that’s locked onto the road, and all the while, directed by a steering system that requires loads of effort, but a mischievously small amount of actual movement, to send it flitting one corner to the next. And with all of that heaviness, it’s easy to be smooth. Gentle. Precise.

Delicious, perfect steering.

And the suspension: also remarkable. It’s called Magnetic Ride Control, and it sees the V’s shock absorbers filled with a magical space fluid that can be thickened or liquefied as quickly as the current through an electromagnet can be changed, or, let’s say, instantly.

Result? In TRACK mode, the ATS-V feels like a little import tuner car, riding on a set of aftermarket coilovers: bouncing and rebounding tightly and aggressively over its wheels, twitching and squirming with glee when drivers steer via the throttle, and all with a thin veil of softness at the edges for comfort. In TOUR mode, that layer of softness expands greatly: it’s still sporty-taut, but hours-long cruising friendly. In any mode, the suspension actively works its magical space-shocks to keep the ATS-V’s body stable and under full control.

Magnetic Ride Control does for the ATS-V’s ride and handling what an image stabilizer on a pro camera lens: keeps things stable and steady, in conditions where it’s tricky to keep things stable and steady.

The steering and suspension are two highly effective variable systems that showcase a broad spectrum of adjustability, and a considerable, marked difference between the feel of each, depending on which drive mode is presently engaged. It’s almost like having 3 or 4 cars in one: heck of a deal, for the $68,000 starting price.

Do you like being comfortable? Do you like staying in your seat while ripping through high-speed corners like a bandit? The ATS-V’s hugely-adjustable Recaro seats are up to the task:  thick and chunky, leather edges make sliding in and out easy, and suede inserts adhere to your clothing, locking you in. Bolsters, lumbar and more can be adjusted, forming the perfect high-performance hug for your backside, and releasing it when you’re cruising gently.

Front seat space is adequate for two adults, though a curious lump in the passenger footwell floor chews up some space. Rear seats can fit smaller adults or kids, though they’re typically best left for luggage, and are difficult to access. A four-door ATS-V is available, if you need it.

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