Select a year
- Highs Excellent chassis balance, choice of two smooth and powerful engines, lots of standard features.
- Lows Cabin quality remains a step (or two) behind most rivals, cramped rear seat, mediocre trunk volume.
- Verdict The ATS is fun to drive and a bargain compared to its competition, but infotainment-system quirks and a cozy rear seat temper this Caddy’s youthful exuberance.
Overview
The 2018 Cadillac ATS is the American luxury brand’s least expensive model, though you wouldn’t know it from behind the wheel. Graced with a taut chassis, sharp steering, and the choice of turbo four-cylinder or optional V-6 power, the ATS is more than a match for rivals that include the Lexus IS, BMW 3-series, and Mercedes-Benz C-class. On an empty and winding road, the ATS’s quick reflexes are a revelation to anyone who thinks Cadillacs remain chrome-covered barges with tail fins out back. Unfortunately, the quality of the cabin doesn’t live up to the ATS’s dynamic prowess, and space in the second row is snug, whether you opt for the coupe or sedan configuration.
What's New for 2018?
Very little is new or updated on the 2018 Cadillac ATS coupe and sedan. A little fine tuning makes the CUE infotainment system more user-friendly, and the rear seat reminder safety feature is standard on all trims.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- Base: $36,490
- Luxury: $40,290
- Premium Luxury: $45,890
- Premium Performance: $48,890
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The ATS coupe and sedan both come standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that feeds 272 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo four is punchy and nicely matched to this Cadillac’s poised suspension and linear steering. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with a little more horsepower under the hood. To that end, the available 335-hp 3.6-liter V-6 adds stronger acceleration without sacrificing the balance found in the entry-level model. These powertrains are available in both the ATS coupe and sedan, and each is offered with optional all-wheel drive. The ATS handles well, and its chassis and suspension design inspires confidence even when pushed hard. But the tradeoff is a ride that might be too stiff for traditional Cadillac buyers. On the other hand, driving enthusiasts will be pleased with the Premium Performance model, which offers even firmer sport-tuned suspension, as well as a limited-slip differential and performance tires.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Life is good when you’re seated in the front of the ATS. The seats are supportive, outward visibility is excellent, and the dashboard is handsome—if not quite on par with rivals from Audi, BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes. To our eyes, the ATS interior remains too mainstream in appearance and material quality, though Cadillac sweetens things with an extensive list of standard comfort and convenience features. These include dual-zone climate control, synthetic leather seating surfaces (the real stuff is optional), push-button start, and power-adjustable front seats. Things are less rosy when it comes to the second row. Legroom is tight in the sedan, even worse in the coupe. The trunk is also snug at 10.4 cubic feet in capacity. At least that cargo measurement is the same no matter which of the two ATS body styles you choose.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every ATS comes standard with an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen based on the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system. While some of the rough edges of this infotainment unit have been smoothed over, certain functions and frequently used commands still demand too much of the driver’s attention. At least CUE comes loaded with tech goodies, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, Bluetooth, satellite radio, three USB ports, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. Navigation and a head-up instrument display are available on upper trims.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Cadillac ATS’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
