In the old days when someone called something a Cadillac, it meant it was the best. Today, the old days of Cadillac being the best are finally coming back. The new ATS model is an example of something for both the old and new generation. It looks like a regular Cadilac, but now there's some modern styling to it as well. Inside, you now feel like you're in a luxury car. The cheap plastic is gone and is replaced with soft leather and wood. The dashboard is simple, but has a few hidden features. You get simple heat, a/c, and heated seats, but when you push the bottom of the heater console on the dash, it opens up to reveal a hidden compartment where you can put things. There's even a USB port to plug your iPod into.
You do feel a little claustrophobic due to the lack of headroom, but there is plenty of space, for you and your friends to relax. There are many blindspots and you can't see out of the back, but there is a backup camera to help you see out the back. It is a little blurry, but the basic view is there.
At first, it feels a bit too soft and boring. Of course, I was in touring mode. There are three different modes to choose from; touring mode for regular driving, sport mode for fun driving, and snow mode for winter driving. Switch the car into sport mode and suddenly, the car becomes exciting. The 3.6L V6 wakes up and starts to growl at you. You then start flying past everyone, going from 0-60 in 5.4 seconds, quicker than BMW's new 5-Series. You then continue on to a limited top speed of 152 mph.
Then there's the surprising part; how this car handles. You can throw it into a corner at 70 mph and stil have plenty of grip. You won't understeer or oversteer, and you won't spin out like other Cadillacs used to do. This is a car for people who want some fun and excitement on the road. This is mostly due to the updated suspension. When you put the car in sport mode, the suspension firms up and the traction control gives power to the wheel that has the most grip.
Saying something is a Cadillac now has the same meaning it used to have. This car can be enjoyed by everyone. It's good for people who want to have some fun, and for people who just want to relax. Also at a price of $46,000, it's also very affordable. With Cadillac now competing against BMW, there's definitely a chance for Cadillac to grab a new generation that would've originaly considered a BMW 5-Series.
2013 Cadillac ATS: Class: Sedan Engine: 3.6L V6 Power : 321 hp, ft lb of torque Fuel economy : 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway Acceleration : 0-60 in 5.4 sec. Top speed : 152 mph (govt. limited) Good things: Fast acceleration, great handling, steers well in the corners. Bad things: No headroom, you can�t see out the back, many blind spots. Special thanks to Baker Cadillac for test vehicle.