Cadillac ATS-V set to debut with over 400 horsepower at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show

By Nick Jaynes June 12, 2013

2014 Cadillac ATS — Image used with permission by copyright holder

We knew it was going to happen eventually. When the Cadillac ATS premiered, it was marketed as Cadillac’s answer to the BMW 3 Series. We knew this meant there would some day be an ATS-V variant, which would inevitably go after the BMW M3.

What we didn’t know was when it would be released and what would be under the hood. Now we have a cursory idea of both.

Under the hood of the ATS-V, Cadillac is likely to bolt the twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 from the 2014 CTS. This new turbocharged motor produces 414 horsepower. Could it be tuned differently in the ATS-V? Certainly. But we’re hoping it gets a few more ponies.

Aside from the engine upgrade, the ATS-V should include quad exhaust, sportier suspension, an aggressive body kit, a limited-slip rear differential, and a Brembo brake upgrade. We’re hoping it’ll also have a manual transmission option, as the manual is only available in the standard ATS with the four-cylinder model. The ATS automatic is magical – don’t get us wrong. But in order to really compete with the M3 Caddy is going to have to spring for a manual gearbox.

If you had told us a few years ago that Cadillac could create a car on par with the 3 Series – let alone the M3 – we would have laughed you out of the room. Now we find ourselves sitting here eagerly anticipating the next mid-size sedan from America’s foremost luxury brand.

Autocar reports that we should see an ATS-V revealed at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show. We wish we didn’t have to wait so long.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

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