My first impression of the ATS was that it’s a terrific take on current Cadillac design. Not quite as sharp-edged as other Cadillac models, it’s a very tidy and tightly integrated look that to my eyes is successful from every angle. Aside from the smallish 17-inch wheels (18-inchers are optional for $630; I’d take them) and our car’s insipid Glacier Blue paint, it looks a winner to me.
Obvious competitors are “the Germans”: BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. From Japan, Infiniti and Lexus will also divert attention, and some might remember the Swedish Volvo S60, but I think the 3 Series is everybody’s target.
The ATS is just about the same size as the 3 Series in length, width and height. It still manages to look somewhat smaller, to my eye; I guess because of the design.
Keyless entry and start is standard on this car, although I have to mention that it didn’t work properly on our tester. It functioned, but slowly, except for the driver’s door which would neither lock nor unlock keylessly in the –20 degree temperatures experienced during our test drive. Once it warmed to around the freezing mark, the system worked better.
 Cadillac ATS 3.6 AWD. Click image to enlarge |
Once inside, you’re greeted with quality materials and design, commensurate with expectations of a vehicle in this segment. The interior is finely tailored, the leather upholstery looking rich and smart; the multi-adjustable power seat is comfortable and supportive in all the right places. Looking around, one is impressed by the thin A-pillars, contrasting seat stitching and even fitment of the interior panels. The gloss graphic on the brushed aluminum trim is not to my taste, however (I would select “delete” if it was an option, but it’s not). Other trim options are wood, carbon fibre, gloss black and “oil rubbed” bronze, their availability depending on the model and exterior colour selected.
