Cadillac ATS Named Esquire Car of the Year for 2012
Esquire magazine has awarded its 2012 Car of the Year title to the 2013 Cadillac ATS, recognising the compact saloon’s design and performance as it launches in Europe.
Esquire magazine selected the 2013 Cadillac ATS as its Car of the Year for 2012, providing a significant endorsement for Cadillac's new compact saloon as it enters a highly competitive segment. The ATS was chosen from a field of luxury cars for its design, driving dynamics and ambitious positioning, as Cadillac takes on established German rivals in both the US and European markets.
Cadillac ATS Wins Esquire Car of the Year
Challenging the German Establishment
The ATS was developed as Cadillac’s answer to the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4. Its selection by Esquire marks a notable moment for the American brand, which has long sought to compete directly with these dominant models in the compact executive category. Cadillac launched the ATS in the US as a 2013 model, positioning it below the larger CTS in both size and price. This strategic move aimed to attract buyers who might otherwise choose one of the established German saloons, with Cadillac emphasising a lighter, more agile platform and a renewed focus on driving engagement.
Debut and European Launch
The ATS made its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2012, followed by a second public appearance at the Paris Motor Show in September. These high-profile events helped build anticipation ahead of the car’s European sales rollout later that year. The decision to showcase the ATS at major international motor shows highlighted Cadillac’s intention to re-establish itself as a serious contender in the global compact luxury market.
Engine Options and Performance
The 2013 ATS is available with three petrol engines, offering a range of performance options to suit different drivers. The entry-level 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produces 200hp and 188lb ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 270hp and 260lb ft. The range-topping 3.6-litre V6 produces 318hp and 267lb ft of torque. Transmission choices include both manual and automatic gearboxes, with rear-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive available on selected models. The ATS’s 3.6-litre V6 variant was rated by the US EPA at 19mpg city and 28mpg highway, reflecting its blend of performance and efficiency.
| 2.5-litre four-cylinder | 200hp, 188lb ft |
|---|---|
| 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder | 270hp, 260lb ft |
| 3.6-litre V6 | 318hp, 267lb ft |
Market Position and Impact
With the ATS, Cadillac aimed to shift perceptions and attract a younger, more internationally minded audience. The model’s lighter chassis and focus on handling were intended to match or surpass the driving experience offered by its German competitors. The Esquire Car of the Year award provided Cadillac with valuable recognition as it sought to move away from its reputation for larger, less dynamic saloons. This award underscored the ATS’s importance in Cadillac’s broader strategy to gain relevance and credibility in the compact luxury segment.
Industry Reaction and Significance
The recognition from Esquire magazine was seen as a boost not only for Cadillac but also for the broader American automotive industry. The ATS’s success came at a time when American manufacturers were working to reinvent themselves and compete more effectively on the global stage. The model’s development, including its European-focused engineering and marketing, demonstrated Cadillac’s commitment to producing vehicles that could stand alongside the best in the segment.
The ATS’s positive reception at international motor shows and its subsequent award from Esquire signalled a turning point for Cadillac. The brand’s renewed focus on performance, design and driving dynamics was validated by industry experts and provided momentum as the ATS entered new markets. For buyers, the recognition offered reassurance that the ATS was a credible alternative to established rivals, while for Cadillac, it marked another step in its ongoing transformation.
