The exterior design is another in Cadillac's “Art and Science” theme. According to Bob Boniface, Cadillac’s director or exterior design, the first Art and Science rendering, on the original Cadillac CTS, featured mostly plain surfaces with hard folds. “The design of the ATS is much more nuanced, with organic shapes interrupted by hard creases,” said Boniface. “It’s a very sophisticated design language (and) not nearly as severe as original art and science… It’s more rounded.”
To make sure ATS telegraphs its sporting capabilities, the stance had to be just right, added Boniface. He noted this is accomplished through short overhangs, no visual excess, and wheels that are further out than the main body panels. With the priority on this lean and athletic look, it’s no surprise that rear seat and trunk space are adequate but not generous. I overheard one Cadillac executive refer to them as “size appropriate for its vehicle type.”
No one outside GM has driven ATS, but those who have, including Boniface, are pretty stoked about its handling dynamics: “When you drive the ATS, you're going to be shocked. You will find it to be a superior vehicle to the BMW (3 Series).” It was extensively tested at Germany's famed Nurburgring.
In addition to its lightness, the ATS boasts driver-adjustable suspension with real-time damping, underbody aerodynamics, ZF variable-effort steering, available Brembo brakes and all-wheel drive.
Inside ATS you’ll find Cadillac’s new driver interface called “CUE,” which features the world's first automotive “capacitive” display. It enables you to finger flick, à la iPad, and move data from one screen to another. The theme of the interior is to give you data only when you need it. A proximity sensor activates the screen only when your hand comes near it. CUE can also link up to 10 separate Bluetooth devices.
The 2013 Cadillac ATS goes on sale during the second half of 2012.
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| The exterior design is another in Cadillac's “Art and Science” theme. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
To make sure ATS telegraphs its sporting capabilities, the stance had to be just right, added Boniface. He noted this is accomplished through short overhangs, no visual excess, and wheels that are further out than the main body panels. With the priority on this lean and athletic look, it’s no surprise that rear seat and trunk space are adequate but not generous. I overheard one Cadillac executive refer to them as “size appropriate for its vehicle type.”
No one outside GM has driven ATS, but those who have, including Boniface, are pretty stoked about its handling dynamics: “When you drive the ATS, you're going to be shocked. You will find it to be a superior vehicle to the BMW (3 Series).” It was extensively tested at Germany's famed Nurburgring.
In addition to its lightness, the ATS boasts driver-adjustable suspension with real-time damping, underbody aerodynamics, ZF variable-effort steering, available Brembo brakes and all-wheel drive.
Inside ATS you’ll find Cadillac’s new driver interface called “CUE,” which features the world's first automotive “capacitive” display. It enables you to finger flick, à la iPad, and move data from one screen to another. The theme of the interior is to give you data only when you need it. A proximity sensor activates the screen only when your hand comes near it. CUE can also link up to 10 separate Bluetooth devices.
The 2013 Cadillac ATS goes on sale during the second half of 2012.
 |
| Inside ATS you’ll find Cadillac’s new driver interface called “CUE,” which features the world's first automotive “capacitive” display. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
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