The ATS-V steps in to take up the mantle—and to carry it forward.

Elements that were upgraded from the standard ATS-V implementation include: the shock tower-to-plenum brace; a stronger rocker bulkhead; stronger rear cradle-to-rocker braces; V-braces for the engine compartment; and a unique aluminum shear panel at the front of the chassis. As you’ll note, all of these upgrades are focused on making the already stiff chassis even stiffer. The ATS-V is 25 percent stiffer than the standard car, aiding handling and predictability at the limit.

The ATS-V from the back

Performance focused upgrades of the ATS-V include Brembo brakes measuring 14.5 inches up front and 13.3 inches at the back. The ATS-V Magnetic Ride Control dampers make adjustments thousands of times per second to better match ride quality and handling to the road conditions and driver demands, with the new third-generation system up to 40 percent faster than previous MRC dampers.

Flat-shift technology lets the ATS-V driver change gears up the range without lifting off the throttle, and Active Rev Match pairs road speed to engine speed on the way back down the cogs of the six-speed manual. A paddle-shifted eight-speed automatic is also available, sporting Performance Algorithm Shift software.

The ATS-V interior

A ZF Servotronic II steering system provides electric boost, but promises solid driver feedback. A standard electronic limited-slip differential helps deliver both power to the ground and balanced handling in the corners.

The ATS-V will launch in the spring of 2015 as a 2016 model, where it will go up against the likes of the BMW M3/M4 and Lexus RC F. Also in the works is a new-generation of the CTS-V, which should make its own auto show debut early next year.

The ATS-V in black

Keywords
The ATS-V, The ATS-V back, The ATS-V interior, The ATS-V in black, ATS-V Launch, ATS-V driver experience