The upcoming
Cadillac ATS hasn't hit showrooms yet, and its makers are already considering other variants. The entry-level model in the luxury brand's line-up will offer two four-cylinder engines, along with one V6.
The near future will see more variants, a number of sources inside Cadillac
told The Detroit Bureau. Seriously being considered are a coupe and high-performance V-series versions.
Cadillac line chief Dave Leone said it's challenging to figure out whether power for the ATS-V would come from a naturally-aspirated V8 or a smaller-displacement V6 with some form of forced induction onboard. The ATS has apparently been designed with enough underhood space for a V8, however. A turbo- or supercharged V6 would likely yield better fuel economy and be a better reflection of the times, however. Rumors of the 3.6-liter V6 turbocharged to make 380 horsepower were circling around the web in the not-too-distant past.
Otherwise, Cadillac is considering offering more niche vehicles, including giving serious thought to a convertible that would fill the gap left by the XLR. There is also
renewed talk of a production version of the top-rung Ciel concept that would compete with the likes of BMW's 7-series and Mercedes-Benz' S-Class, along with some crossovers.
