Two other notes. First, in SPORT or TRACK mode, the traction management systems allow power output to marginally outgun traction, keeping throttle-steer capability on constant standby, and generating little squirms and squiggles as the V goes wide-open in a straight line. Second, at full song, the engine sounds less artificial and more pleasing than the BMW: it’s a sort of quivering growl-turned-snarl, attenuated with a slight, reedy pulsation, that calls aural images of a meatier Infiniti VQ V6 to mind.

Let’s bring it all together. Endless, peaky acceleration. Steering that’s mischievously quick and exceptionally confidence-inspiring with its heavy weight. A suspension that keeps the body tautly positioned, in real time, over its wheels. Right-now throttle steering. Very responsive weight transfer. You feel like you’re driving something much smaller and lighter than you actually are.

Driven hard, there’s a sharp, eager, instantaneousness to the ATS-V, combined with a high-resolution feel of what the car is doing beneath you at all times. In some ways, driven on a track surface, it reminded your writer of a much more powerful Mazda MX-5. (That’s a good thing). Add in the potent brakes, which bite hard and fast and nearly match the BMW for precision, and you’ve got a car that puts on a hell of a show at track day, and, with a click, can cruise the highway home in quiet, relaxing comfort.

And so, the ATS-V exists at a crossroads between luxury and performance, Cadillac and “V”. Here’s a machine with the moves and hardware and fine-tuning to thrill even demanding enthusiasts, while working almost effortlessly as a comfortable, compliant daily driver or weekend long-haul cruiser.

Warranty:
4 years/80,000 km; 6 years/110,000 km powertrain; 6 years/unlimited distance corrosion perforation; 6 years/110,000 km roadside assistance

Competitors:
Audi RS5
BMW M4
Lexus RC F
Mercedes C-Class AMG

A final thought: with pricing some seven grand cheaper than a comparable BMW M4, ATS-V drivers will have plenty of surplus cash for their tire, brake-pad and track-day admission fund. I’ll take one, in black, with the manual transmission, please.

Pricing: 2016 Cadillac ATS-V Coupe
Base Price: $68,055
Options: Carbon Fiber Package ($5,755), Recaro Seat Upgrade ($2,645), Luxury Package ($2,595), 8-speed automatic ($2,345), Safety and Security Package ($2,225), Performance Data Recorder ($1,430), Crystal White Tricoat Paint ($1,145), 18-inch wheels ($1,095), Red Brembo Calipers ($625)
Freight: $1,950
A/C Tax: $100
Price as Tested: $89,695

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