GM Kicks-Off 2012 NAIAS with Debut of New ATS Sedan

The eyes of the automotive world are focused on the Motor City as the 2012 North American International Auto Show gets underway in Detroit this week.  The official media previews begin on Monday morning.  However, General Motors kicked things off on Sunday night with a special media event at the College for Creative Studies, home to one of the world's most recognized programs for transportation design.

GM-North America President
Mark Reuss unveils all-new
Cadillac ATS in Detroit on
January 8, 2012.

The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the all-new Cadillac ATS sedan, which GM officials say will challenge the world's best premium cars.

The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.

“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo.”

2013 Cadillac ATS

As was the case with development of the CTS sports sedan, Germany's famed Nurburgring served as one of the key testing grounds for the ATS as engineers worked to balance performance with Cadillac's trademark luxury refinement.  "This is more than just another new entry," said Butler.  "The ATS aims to change the status quo of the European-dominated compact luxury segment." In fact, GM-North America President Mark Reuss told journalists covering the event that just competing in the segment will not be good enough.  "We intend for ATS to not just be a compelling new challenger, but a winner," said Reuss.  "We will win with this car!"

2013 Cadillac ATS Interior

The ATS will offer a broad range of engines, including two four-cylinders and a V-6, delivering strong power with efficiency.  According to Reuss, the ATS will achieve in excess of 30 miles-per-gallon on the highway from its base 2.5L I-4 power plant.  A 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and the popular 3.6L V-6 will be available as options.  In addition to the gasoline-powered engine options, Reuss said GM plans to also offer a diesel engine in the ATS, though he did not say exactly when that would happen.

The ATS will replace the CTS in Cadillac's 2013 model-year lineup and goes on sale this summer.  Pricing has not yet been announced.  Direct competitors will include the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

All photos:  GM Media

Watch the unveiling of the all-new 2013 Cadillac ATS sedan.