2015 Cadillac ATS-V Coupé Premium first drive

What is it?

If you attended the European Cadillac ATS-V press conference, you might have observed some trying to quell a wry smile when what were considered its rivals were revealed. There, alongside the new ATS-V, sat the BMW M4 and Lexus RC-F.

Cynics, however, had their doubts dispelled as the conference ran on. In fact, as the development processes were explained, the upgrades detailed and the numbers presented, the ATS-V really began to appear a viable and seriously capable alternative to an BMW M4.

It's virtually the same size, for starters. Similarly, motive power comes from six force-fed cylinders, albeit ones arranged in a ‘V’ instead of in a line. Power is sent to an electronically controlled limited-slip differential at the rear, although only via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Alas, there's no manual option for European market models.

The Cadillac, however, packs more firepower. Its twin-turbo 3.6-litre V6 deals out 464bhp and 445lb ft, eclipsing the BMW's 425bhp and 406lb ft. Despite tipping the scales at 1768kg, some 81kg more than the equivalent M4, it's also claimed to be faster. 

Manage what must be the world's best standing-start launch in perfect conditions and the ATS-V will reputedly sprint from 0-62mph in 3.9sec, beating the M4 to the punch by 0.2sec.

What's it like?

Let's get the predictable out of the way. Many aspects of the interior still can't compete with European rivals. It's quiet, comfortable and well equipped, as is usually the way, but thin-feeling materials, dated-looking instruments and finicky touch-sensitive controls let it down. The boot might be big but the rear seats are cramped, and side and rearwards visibility is not too hot, either.

This all fades into relative insignificance, however, the moment you give the Cadillac's throttle a prod. Blimey, it sounds remarkably like a more refined Nissan GT-R. It warbles along at part throttle, engine note falling to a deep burble as the revolutions drop. Pin the throttle to the floor and a sonorous howl fills the cabin as the ATS-V surges forwards, engine rushing without hesitation towards its 6500rpm limiter.

Putting the power down is easy, thanks to the limited-slip differential, finely engineered suspension and an easily modulated throttle. Unfortunately, the eight-speed automatic transmission proves to be the weak link in the chain. It's usually fine when left to its own devices, but it responds too slowly when you manually command shifts, occasionally leaving the engine against its limiter.

Another chink in the Cadillac's armour can be found when you try to stop the damned thing. It may have staggered six-piston calipers and substantial discs up front, but there's very little feel to the hard, short-travel brake pedal. It's difficult to correctly meter out braking effort as a result, which can initially result in some closer-than-expected calls.

Once again, however, the ATS-V claws back your admiration by cornering in a fashion that you'd never expect. A lightning-quick variable and electrically assisted ZF rack transmits your input precisely to the front tyres and serves up adequate feedback and gratifying heft.

Grip levels are high and body roll almost nil, allowing you to blow through corners at a vast rate of knots; alternatively, disengage the traction control and revel in endless and easily controlled power oversteer. Standard-fit MagneRide electronically adjustable suspension offers a firm but fine ride, bolstering the Cadillac's appeal.