The 2018 ATS-V is the Cadillac that many thought Cadillac would never build. It's a high-performance compact coupe or sedan with a radar lock on cars such as the Mercedes-Benz AMG C 63 and the BMW M3 and M4. It's all about power, intuitive reactions from a well-tuned chassis, and an appearance that boldly announces its ability. Introduced for the 2016 model year, the ATS-V is the Cadillac you're least likely to see wearing a vinyl "carriage roof" or wide whitewall tires. If your white shoes match your white belt or you think about restoring a 1978 Coupe de Ville, then the ATS-V might not be for you.
There aren't many big changes between the 2016 and 2018 editions of the ATS-V. The beating heart of the ATS-V is a twin-turbocharged version of GM's ubiquitous 3.6-liter V6. The ATS-V's engine is related to the similar-spec version used in its big brother, the CTS V-Sport, where it packs 420 horsepower. But thanks to, among other things, revised turbos and trick, lightweight connecting rods, the ATS-V's powerplant is engorged to the tune of 464 horsepower. That's 39 more hp than the M3's turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder puts out and 39 hp less than the AMG C 63 S' turbo 4.0-liter V8. The muscular engine offered in the ATS-V is lashed to either a six-speed manual transmission with a slick rev-matching feature or an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Acceleration of this rear-wheel-drive missile is awesome. The zero-to-60-mph time is near 4 seconds, with a quarter-mile blitz taking about 12.5 seconds. Try matching that with a 1984 Eldorado Biarritz.
Still, as wonderfully powerful as the engine is, what Cadillac has done best with this car is tune the suspension. The rear differential is super trick, the shock absorbers use GM's brilliant Magnetic Ride Control, and the tires are Michelin's gooey-soft Pilot Super Sports that are like barnacles on pavement. Throw in great steering and Brembo brakes that could stop a runaway 747, and the result is high-level automotive entertainment.
There's not much room in the ATS-V's rear seat, and some of the interior elements are aesthetically warring with one another, but the quality of the drive makes up for all of that. Still, watch what boxes you tick on the options sheet. You'll want the Recaro seats. But consider skipping the expensive carbon-fiber body pieces.
Sport sedans such as the ATS-V aren't delicate, but the balance between wicked performance and everyday comfort is difficult to sustain. So let Edmunds help you fine-tune your instincts and choose the one that's right for you.
2018 Cadillac ATS-V Overview
The 2018 Cadillac ATS-V is offered in the following submodels: Coupe, Sedan. Available styles include 2dr Coupe (3.6L 6cyl Turbo 6M), and 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl Turbo 6M). ATS-V models are available with a 0-liter gas engine, with output up to 0 hp, depending on engine type. The 2018 ATS-V comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual. The 2018 ATS-V comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 6 yr./ 70000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 6 yr./ 70000 mi. powertrain warranty.
Is the 2018 Cadillac ATS-V a good car? Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Cadillac ATS-V and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 ATS-V featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
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Is the 2018 Cadillac Ats-v safe? The 2018 Cadillac Ats-v earned a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and "GOOD" ratings from the IIHS in the following caregories: and a JD POWER overall quality rating of 3.5 out of 5. Among Edmunds' many tools and resources for finding your perfect car are detailed safety ratings and analysis from NHTSA, IIHS, and JD Power, including overall ratings, frontal barrier crash ratings, side impact tests and crash ratings, rollover test results, roof strength tests, rear crash protection and head restraint ratings, side barrier ratings, combined side barrier and pole ratings, and more.
What options are available on the 2018 Cadillac ATS-V?
Available Cadillac ATS-V 2018 Submodel Types: Coupe, Sedan
Available Cadillac ATS-V 2018 Trims: Base
Exterior Colors: Black Raven, Crystal White Frost, Crystal White Tricoat, Phantom Gray Metallic, Red Obsession Tintcoat, Vector Blue Metallic, Velocity Red
Interior Colors: Jet Black leather/sueded microfiber, Jet Black w/Jet Black Accents leather/suede, Jet Black w/Saffron Accents leather/suede, Light Platinum w/Jet Black Accents leatherette/suede
Popular Features: Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel, Auto Climate Control, Aux Audio Inputs, Back-up camera, Bluetooth, Heated seats, Keyless Entry/Start, Mobile Internet, Multi-Zone Climate Control, Parking sensors, Post-collision safety system, Power Driver Seat, Rear Bench Seats, Stability Control, Tire Pressure Warning, Trip Computer, USB Inputs, Fold Flat Rear Seats, Navigation, Upgraded Headlights, Upgraded Stereo, Remote Start, Sunroof/Moonroof, 2nd Row Bucket Seats, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, Alarm, Blind Spot Monitoring, Heads up display, Lane Departure Warning
Engine/Mechanics: 6 cylinders
Transmission: AUTOMATIC, MANUAL
Fuel Types: premium unleaded (recommended)
Drivetrains: rear wheel drive
Edmunds attended a manufacturer-sponsored event, to which selected members of the press were invited, to facilitate this report.
