July 12, 2012
GM Says Cadillac ATS’ Lighter Weight Improves Fuel Economy, Performance
GM’s Cadillac brand focused on making its all-new 2013-MY ATS lighter as one way to improve the sedan’s fuel economy and performance. (You can view a photo gallery of the Cadillac ATS here.)
The vehicle has an official curb weight of 3,315 lbs. The automaker said the vehicle’s mass efficiency means it can achieve 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.4 seconds but also gets GM-estimated fuel economy of 32 mpg highway and 22 mpg city for the 2.5L and 2.0L turbo, respectively.
GM said an aluminum hood and front suspension parts, magnesium engine mount brackets and natural fiber door trim panels contribute to the ATS' reduced weight. The vehicle’s engineering team reduced weight in the rear suspension by using specially engineered straight steel links that use mass-reducing holes instead of aluminum.
GM said the ATS uses an acoustically laminated windshield and side windows that are lighter than standard tempered glass and provide better wind and powertrain noise reduction for a quiet interior.
Other features the vehicle’s lighter weight allow are optimized high-strength aluminum 18-inch wheel forgings and front Brembo brakes. The brakes can deliver 60-0 stopping distance of approximately 129 feet.
For retail pricing, GM said the ATS model with the 2.5L engine and six-speed transmission will be priced starting at $33,990, including destination charges (excluding tax, title, license and dealer fees). The 2.0L turbocharged model is priced at $35,795, including destination (excluding tax, title, license and dealer fees) and will offer automatic and manual transmissions, and rear- or all-wheel drive choices.
For the 3.6L V-6 with an automatic transmission, GM said it will cost $42,090 including destination (excluding tax, title, license and dealer fees). Standard content on that model includes the Cadillac User Experience (CUE); leather seating surfaces; eight-way power front seats plus two-way power lumbar, adaptive remote start; and other features. GM added that all-wheel drive is available for this model.
Click here to see fleet incentives for the ATS and other General Motors products.