Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan / Sports Sedan
Competitive Set:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Acura ILX/TLX.
Platform:
GM Alpha platform, noted for its lightweight construction and dynamic handling capabilities.
Design Philosophy:
Art and Science design language, emphasizing sharp lines, sculpted surfaces, and a driver-focused cockpit.
Performance Focus:
Designed to compete with European luxury sport sedans, prioritizing agile handling and responsive powertrains.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, driveline.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation, selector positions, maintenance.
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, infotainment system, climate control, power accessories.
Safety And Security:
Airbags, seat belts, child restraints, vehicle security system, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Driver Assistance:
Cruise control, parking assist, lane departure warning (if equipped).
Operation:
Vehicle startup and shutdown, driving techniques, gear selection, climate control usage.
Maintenance:
Recommended service intervals, fluid checks and top-offs, tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, basic troubleshooting steps for common issues.
Emergency:
Jumper starting, tire changing, safe vehicle operation in adverse conditions.
Diagnostic Level:
Basic diagnostic indicators and explanations for warning lights. Does not provide in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic codes.
Repair Level:
Focuses on owner-level maintenance and operation. Detailed mechanical repair procedures are typically found in a separate Service Manual.
Engine Type:
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4
Horsepower:
272 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 1700-4700 rpm
Aspirated Engine Option:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 (Engine Code: LUK), 202 hp @ 6300 rpm, 191 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Performance Engine Option:
3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6 (Engine Code: LFX), 321 hp @ 6800 rpm, 275 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance)
Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic transmission (RWD)
Transmission Type AWD:
6-speed automatic transmission (AWD)
Manual Transmission:
6-speed manual transmission (RWD only, standard on some trims with 2.0T engine)
Shift Modes:
Driver Shift Control (manual mode with paddle shifters on automatic transmissions).
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for models equipped with specific safety features)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Top Safety Pick+
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Tpms:
Standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Driver Assistance Options:
Optional: Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Restraints:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system for child seat installation.
System Name:
Cadillac CUE (Cadillac User Experience)
Features:
8-inch touchscreen display, voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, SD card reader, Pandora/Stitcher integration. Optional: Navigation, Bose premium audio.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available, maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead.
Parking Assist:
Available, with front and rear parking sensors and rearview camera.
Phone Integration:
Bluetooth phone integration for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Ports:
Standard USB ports for device charging and media playback.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. May vary based on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 7,500 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Recommended replacement every 20,000-30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid:
Inspect regularly, replace as needed or per manufacturer recommendations (typically every 2-3 years).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (e.g., GM dexos1 Gen 2 or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool (Orange, Long-Life Coolant)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI (for 6-speed automatic transmissions)
Common Complaints:
Some owners have reported issues with turbocharger lag on the 2.0T, infotainment system glitches, and potential for carbon buildup in direct-injection engines requiring periodic cleaning. Check for any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for specific remedies.
Tire Wear:
Due to its sporty nature and alignment settings, some ATS models may exhibit slightly faster inner tire wear on the rear. Regular rotation and alignment checks are advised.
Cadillac Legacy:
Cadillac has a long-standing reputation for luxury, comfort, and technological innovation in the American automotive market.
Ats Introduction:
The ATS was introduced for the 2013 model year as Cadillac's entry into the highly competitive compact luxury sedan segment, aiming to challenge established European benchmarks.
Platform Development:
Built on the all-new GM Alpha rear-wheel-drive platform, which was praised for its balanced weight distribution and agile handling characteristics.
Manufacturing Location:
Lansing Grand River Assembly, Lansing, Michigan, USA.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Nominee/Finalist in its class.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Featured on Car and Driver's 10 Best lists multiple times during its production run, particularly for its chassis dynamics.
Consumer Reports:
Generally received good ratings for driving dynamics, but some model years and engines had average or below-average predicted reliability ratings.