So, you’re in the market for a luxury used sedan, and the 2016 Cadillac ATS has captivated you. An excellent choice! Or is it the right one? This luxury compact car offers a blend of performance, style, and advanced technology, but it’s not without its flaws. If you’re asking, “Is the 2016 Cadillac ATS a good car?” you’ve come to the right place. it has
In this deep dive, we’ll look at the highs and lows of the 2016 ATS to help you decide if it’s worth your hard-earned money.
At first glance, the Cadillac ATS
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a quick look at what the 2016 Cadillac ATS brings to the table.
Engine options: 2.5L 4-cylinder, 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 3.6L V6
Horsepower: 202 hp to 335 hp
Fuel economy: Up to 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway
Transmission: 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual (on specific models).
Driving mode: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
Now that you have the basics, let’s dig deeper into the performance, comfort, and tech that the ATS offers.
Engine options and driving experience?
The 2016 ATS comes with three engine options, catering to different tastes and driving styles:
2.5L 4-cylinder:
This base engine is adequate for everyday driving but lacks the punch expected from a luxury sedan. It gets the job done, but if you’re looking for something interesting, you might want to give this one a go.
2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder:
Now we’re talking! With 272 horsepower, this turbocharged engine adds some serious power to the ATS step. It’s quick off the line, and navigating the highway seems effortless.
3.6L V6:
If you’re after maximum performance, the V6 is where it’s at. The 335-horsepower engine transforms the ATS into a sports sedan. The neck’s exhaust tone is music to the gearhead’s ears, and power delivery is smooth and linear.
Handling and ride quality?
Cadillac didn’t just focus on straight-line acceleration with the ATS. The chassis is well-balanced and the steering is sharp, giving you a connection to the road lacking in many of its rivals. The ATS loves cornering, and the rear-wheel-drive system provides a dynamic driving experience. If you’re an enthusiast, you’ll appreciate how the ATS handles winding roads.
However, this sport comes at a price for riding comfort. The suspension leans more towards sport than comfort, which means you’ll feel more like a road imperfection. It’s no penalty, but if you want a cushy ride, the ATS might not be the right fit.
Comfort and Interior Quality:
Moving into the cabin, the 2016 Cadillac ATS has a lot to offer, but there are areas where it falls short.
Interior Design & Material
Upon entering the ATS, the first thing you notice is the modern, high-end design. Cadillac’s goal was to create a cockpit that looked sleek and sophisticated, and for the most part, they succeeded. The layout of the dashboard is sleek, with smooth lines and high-end materials like leather and brushed metal.
However, it was a big but, some critics point out that while the content looks premium though, it doesn’t always feel that way. Some of the plastics used in obscure areas did not match the aesthetic standards Cadillac was shooting for. It’s not a deal breaker, but if interior quality is a priority for you, it’s something to keep in mind.
Seating and space:
The front seats are a solid feature in the ATS. They are sturdy and supportive, making long car rides comfortable. The rear seats, however, tell a different story. Space back there is at a premium, especially if you have longer passengers. Leg and headroom are tight, and having too many people in the back seat can be a nuisance.
On the bright side, the ATS offers decent trunk space for its class. It’s not cavernous, but it will handle your grocery runs and weekend stuff without too much fuss.
Infotainment System:
The ATS features Cadillac’s CUE (Cadillac User Experience) infotainment system, which comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Bose sound system. Sounds great, right?
Well, sort of. While CUE looks impressive and packs a lot of features, it’s been criticized for being less intuitive than some competitors’ systems. The touch-sensitive controls can be finicky, and the system sometimes lags, which can be frustrating if you’re trying to make quick adjustments while driving.
Safety and Driver Assistance:
Safety-wise, the 2016 ATS doesn’t disappoint. It comes with a solid array of safety features, including:
- Forward Collision Alert
- Lane Departure Warning
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
These features, combined with the car’s sturdy build, give it a solid safety profile. However, it’s worth noting that advanced features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, which are becoming more common in newer models, were optional extras in the ATS.
Is the 2016 Cadillac ATS a Reliable Ride?
One of the biggest concerns when buying a used car is reliability. So, how does the 2016 Cadillac ATS stack up?
Common Issues:
While the ATS generally has a good reliability rating, it’s not immune to problems. Some of the common issues reported by owners include:
- CUE System Problems: As mentioned earlier, the infotainment system can be a bit glitchy, with some owners experiencing freezing or unresponsive screens.
- Transmission Shifts: A few drivers have reported rough or jerky shifts from the 8-speed automatic transmission, especially at low speeds.
- Electrical Gremlins: Minor electrical issues, such as malfunctioning sensors or warning lights, have also been reported.
Maintenance Costs:
Maintenance and repair costs for the ATS are on par with other luxury vehicles in its class. Parts and labor can be pricey, so it’s something to budget for if you’re considering buying one. On the flip side, Cadillac offers decent warranty coverage, which can help mitigate some of these costs if you’re still within the warranty period.
FAQs About the 2016 Cadillac ATS?
Is the 2016 Cadillac ATS good on gas?
The ATS offers respectable fuel efficiency, especially with the 2.0L turbocharged engine. You can expect around 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with this setup. The V6 engine, while more powerful, will naturally consume more fuel.
How does the 2016 Cadillac ATS compare to its competitors?
The ATS competes with other compact luxury sedans like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. While it’s often praised for its handling and performance, it doesn’t quite match the interior quality or brand prestige of its German rivals. However, if driving dynamics are your priority, the ATS is a strong contender.
Is the 2016 Cadillac ATS a good car for long trips?
The ATS is a mixed bag for long trips. The front seats are comfortable, and the car is fun to drive on winding roads. However, the limited rear-seat space and firm ride might make long journeys less enjoyable for passengers.
CONCLUSION:
So, is the 2016 Cadillac ATS a better car? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you put performance first and love a connected driving experience, the ATS could be right up your alley. It’s stylish, has some serious lift-off with a decent engine, and offers plenty of modern tech features. However, if you’re after a luxury sedan with a stylish, spacious interior and bulletproof reliability, you may want to explore other options.
Ultimately, the 2016 Cadillac ATS is a bit of a hidden gem—perfect for some, but not everyone. Give it a test drive, see how it feels, and decide if it’s a luxury car that will make you smile every time you get behind the wheel!
