Cadillac pulled the sheets off its compact 2015 ATS sports coupe at this year’s Detroit Auto Show. With only two doors and the absence of the sedan’s base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the ATS coupe looks to be an even sportier take on the already dynamic compact luxury car.
“The 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe is a natural step in the brand’s progression, and another distinctive, fun-to-drive and technologically advanced product for a new generation of drivers extending our target groups,” said Uwe Ellinghaus, chief marketing officer, Global Cadillac. “It is an exclusively distinctive American alternative, unique in its class, yet delivering a sporty and sophisticated driving experience rivaling the world’s best.”
The ATS Coupe will be offered in both rear- and all-wheel platforms, with Cadillac’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, or the 3.6-liter V6. Those opting for the turbocharged engine will find that it creates even more torque than the engine from the ATS sedan, as it has been boosted by 15 percent to create 295 lb-ft behind its 272 horsepower. The V6 delivers 321-hp and 275-lb-ft of torque. Both a six-speed manual and six-speed automatic are offered in the ATS Coupe. Cadillac claims that the ATS Coupe provides improved handling dynamics over the sedan, too, thanks to weight savings and slightly wider front and rear tracks.
Cadillac fans that have waited for a small performance coupe can rejoice; it’ll finally arrive for 2015. However, we’re curious to see how the ATS Coupe stacks up against the stalwarts from BMW, Audi, and even Mercedes. We’re already big fans of the ATS sedan, but its two-door sibling has been left with pretty big shoes to fill, thanks mostly to one very refined BMW 4 Series.
You might also notice, if you look real close, that the wreath around the Cadillac shield emblem has been removed. We first saw this new take on the Cadillac logo on the Elmiraj concept from last year. We absolutely love the new take on the Caddy logo and hope the slimmed-down moniker, just like the ATS Coupe, is here to stay.
First-look video
Looking for more Detroit news? Check out the rest of our coverage from the 2014 North American International Auto Show.
What do you think of the 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe? Let us know in the comments below.
