Detroit Auto Show 2012: Cadillac ATS arrives to challenge BMW

For the first time in its 109-year history, Cadillac will target the world's best-selling luxury sedan with this: the ATS, an all-new model meant to challenge the also-renewed BMW 3-Series inch for inch. On paper at least, it's a battle royale.

Unvelied today in Detroit, and on sale later this year, the ATS marks the most aggressive step yet made by General Motors to transform Cadillac from the standard of yesteryear into a true global luxury carmaker. While GM has already spent several billion dollars remaking Cadillac with the CTS, SRX and other models — built in a dedicated Michigan factory — those vehicles never directly aimed for BMW's flagship.

Doing so meant GM engineers started with an all-new chassis, one designed for handling first rather than the serene ride that's Cadillac's traditional hallmark. Tuned as most luxury cars are with laps around Germany's demanding Nürburgring track, the ATS' 50/50 front-rear weight balance and five-link rear suspension hold the promise of true razor-like handling. GM also managed to keep the weight of the ATS below 3,400 lbs. — besting the new 2013 BMW 3-Series by a few kilos.