Cadillac has just revealed its BMW M3 and M4 fighters with the release of the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V Coupe and Sedan models at the Los Angeles Auto Show 2014. The two new ATS variants are the first true V badged cars from the ATS range and production will begin next year.

Beneath the skin, the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V uses the long-rumoured 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged V6 currently employed by the CTS Vsport. However, Cadillac’s engineers have managed to extract more power and torque resulting in 455 hp and 445 lb-ft. This extra power has been achieved thanks to new titanium connecting rods, titanium turbocharger turbines, two water-to-air intercoolers as well as a new radiator dedicated to the transmission and electronically locking differential.

All of this power is sent through the rear wheels via either a six-speed manual transmission or a single clutch eight-speed automatic ‘box. To handle the power and torque and to deliver the power to the ground, sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres come standard. When it is all said and done, the Cadillac ATS-V can sprint to 96 km/h (60 mph) in a mere 3.9 seconds as well as a top speed of over 297 km/h (185 mph). The manual gearbox features Active Rev Match, no-lift shifting as well as launch control while the eight-speed auto operated through paddle shifters, includes launch control and the ‘Performance Algorithm Shift’.

Elsewhere, the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V range uses a chassis which is now 25 per cent stiffer than typical ATS variants. Third-generation Magnetic Ride Control dampers are also featured alongside large Brembo six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear. These large Brembo brakes clamp down on 370 mm front discs and 339 mm rear discs. Another key feature of the Cadillac ATS-V range are the five driving settings offered through the Performance Traction Management system for stability and traction control.

Discussing the potency of the car, chief engineer of the ATS-V Tony Roma said, “The ATS-V feels like it was machined from billet steel. Along with supporting the higher performance capability of the car, the enhanced structure conveys confidence to the driver through a greater feeling of solidity and sharper, more precise responsiveness.”

From a design standpoint, the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V range includes a lightweight carbon fibre hood complete with an air-extracting vent which not only pulls out air out from the engine but also reduces lift. Elsewhere, the front and rear fascias have been extensively modified to improve the aero performance of the car with large grille openings also present to feed the air-hungry engine. The flared wheel arches are also a drawcard with them supporting 18×9 inch wheels at the front and 18×9.5 inch wheels at the rear.

Cadillac also offers the Carbon Fiber and Track packages for the ATS-V. The Carbon Fiber pack sees the addition of a more pronounced and aggressive front splitter, bonnet vent trim and rear diffuser as well as a larger rear spoiler. As for the Track package, it includes all the goodies of the Carbon Fiber pack as well as GM’s Performance Data Recorder and a low-mass battery. It also deletes the floor mats and tyre inflator kit.

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