The 2019 Cadillac ATS-V exercises the brand’s performance muscle in a big way. It takes on Mercedes-Benz AMG and BMW M models, delivering a compact rear-wheel-drive luxury coupe that’s the cream of the Cadillac crop.
What's New for 2019
For 2019, Cadillac shrunk the ATS line by dropping the sedan variant. Happily, the coupe continues for one more year, including the track-capable ATS-V. Before the ATS line goes away, we’ll enjoy its blistering performance thanks to a raucous twin-turbocharged V6 paired with a six-speed manual gearbox.
The 2019 Cadillac ATS-V is a carryover, the fourth and final year for this performance model. Both the ATS and CTS will go away after this year, to be replaced by the CT5. At this point, we’re hearing only a sedan will be available. Thus, if you want a Cadillac coupe, now's the time to jump in.
Choosing Your Cadillac ATS-V
The 2019 Cadillac ATS-V is a one-trim-level model that costs $68,790, including a $995 destination charge. It comes in two standard colors (red and black) and three available metallic colors costing $625 or $1,225
Under the hood, a twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 engine gives this performance coupe its marching orders. This engine has an output of 464 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque with power routed to the rear wheels by means of a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic. Expect a zero-to-60 mph time of under four seconds.
The powertrain is just one of the components that set the ATS-V apart from the standard coupe (covered separately), which is also imbued with deliciously weighty steering and spot-on handling. The performance exhaust system is tuned to magnify every moan. Performance tires, Brembo brakes, and an electronic limited-slip differential underscore this coupe’s sporting credentials. Just keep in mind that there's no automatic emergency braking system in place.
Inside, space is tight for anyone sitting in the back. Cargo space is quite limited too, measuring just 10.4 cubic feet. The ATS-V is ideal as a solo driver or with a friend riding shotgun. The standard front bucket seats are comfortable and supportive. The available Recaro seats aren’t as restrictive as many performance seats and will have you ready to pound the track. You’ll do so in exquisite comfort as fine leathers, elegant accents, and available carbon-fiber trim grace the cabin.
The package options include Cadillac User Experience and Navigation ($1,350, a Bose audio system, smartphone integration, a Wi-Fi hotspot, an 110-volt outlet, and three USB ports ), a Safety and Security Package ($1,800, an alarm system, a head-up display, forward collision warning, lane change alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, and a following distance indicator) and a Luxury Package ($2,100, high-intensity discharge headlights with adaptive forward lighting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, and sport pedals). Also available is a Carbon Fiber Package ($5,000) with a carbon fiber front splitter, hood vent, rear diffuser, composite black rocker extensions, and rear spoiler.
Individual options include the automatic transmission ($2,000), a carbon fiber engine cover ($1,295), 16-way Recaro performance seats ($2,300), a head-up display ($700), and Red Brembo brake calipers ($595).
This is the final year for the ATS as Cadillac will replace a few of its models with a new sedan. Likely, this means we won’t see a Cadillac coupe again for some time, which also means right now is your opportunity to buy a coupe like the 2019 Cadillac ATS-V.