Given that the summer launch of the all-new 2013 Cadillac ATS is just around the corner, General Motors decided it was time to reveal initial pricing data on its compact luxury sports sedan, which eyes the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class saloons. Cadillac's new entry-level sedan will be offered with a choice of three powerplants, with prices starting at $33,990, including destination charges, for the base rear-wheel drive version propelled by a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four producing 200HP and 188 lb-ft (255Nm).
The wreath and crest brand says that the base model's highway fuel economy will be "well over 30 mpg". Moving up a step in the range will get you GM's new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit rated at 270-horses and 260 lb-ft (353Nm) of torque, with this version priced from $35,795, including destination. Buyers will be able to choose between 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions, as well as rear- or all-wheel drive.
Sitting at the top of the ATS' lineup is a 3.6-liter V6 with a preliminary rating of 320 horsepower, costing $42,090 including destination with an automatic transmission and standard content that includes Cadillac's CUE infotainment system, leather 8-way power seats with memory, adaptive start and more. All-wheel drive will be available on this model as well. According to the Detroit automaker, the V6 model is expected to have a 0-60 mph (96km/h) acceleration time of "well below six seconds".
In comparison, the base Audi A4 sedan with a 211hp and 258 lb-ft 2.0-liter turbo starts at $33,375, the BMW 328i powered by a 240hp and 260 lb-ft 2.0-liter turbo at $35,795 and the Mercedes C250 fitted with a 201hp and 229 lb-ft 1.8-liter turbocharged four at $35,675. All the aforementioned prices included a destination and handling fee.
“The ATS enters a vehicle segment this year that’s one of the most competitive in the market, from both a price and performance standpoint,” commented Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac Marketing. “ATS will bring a distinctive presence and compelling value while offering quick, nimble, fun-to-drive dynamics that will appeal to the lifestyles of modern luxury buyers and challenge the segment’s status quo,” he added.
