2015 Cadillac ATS vs. 2015 Audi A4

Once known as an automaker that only produced luxury cars, Cadillac continues to showcase its talents in the sports sedan segment. One of the most exciting vehicles in Cadillac’s lineup is definitely the 2015 Cadillac ATS. Although the Audi A4 has been a top contender for more than 20 years, the 2015 Cadillac ATS proves to be a legitimate threat. Check out how these two entry-level sports sedans stack up against each other.

Both the Audi A4 and the Cadillac ATS are available with turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Due to a few performance tweaks, the Cadillac’s 2.0-liter engine now produces a muscular 272 horsepower and 292 lb.-ft. of torque. Meanwhile, the Audi A4 churns out about 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Benefiting from a decisive power advantage, the ATS should easily spank the Audi A4 in a drag race. According to Motor Trend, the ATS can hit 60 mph in about 5.7 seconds. The Audi A4 takes around 6.4 seconds to perform the same feat. Drivers will also love the fact that the ATS only requires regular unleaded fuel.

To the delight of driving purists, both the Audi A4 and the Cadillac ATS are available with a manual gearbox. However, the majority of American drivers will prefer an automatic gearbox. While the ATS comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Audi A4 is strapped with a CVT system. According to The Car Connection, the A4’s CVT system is its weakest link. Although Audi does offer a traditional automatic gearbox, buyers will have to upgrade to the all-wheel-drive version. Unfortunately, this equates to a more expensive price tag.

In terms of handling, both of these sedans prove to be quite nimble. However, true driving enthusiasts will likely prefer the ATS. The sedan’s quick steering and agile handling will surely put a smile on the driver’s face. When carving through a curvy back road, the 2015 Cadillac ATS never loses its balance. While the 2015 Audi S4 is more fun than the average family sedan, it still lags behind the ATS. Edmunds describes the Cadillac ATS as an ideal "luxury sport sedan". Like a traditional sports car, the ATS comes standard with a rear-wheel-drive platform. On the other hand, the Audi A4 comes standard with a front-wheel-drive setup.

While styling is often based on opinion, it is hard to ignore the sleekness of the new ATS. It is definitely among the most attractive sports sedans in the class. Cadillac’s signature grille enables the ATS to make a bold statement. Like the rest of the Cadillac lineup, the ATS also features an eye-catching set of headlights. Sharp body lines help to further set the ATS apart from the competition. While some drivers may adore the Audi A4’s rather boxy design, there are others who will find it to be on the boring side. Even five years from now, the 2015 Cadillac ATS should still be a hot commodity.

Most of today’s drivers take their personal safety very seriously. Fortunately, both of these sedans were able to obtain an excellent five-star safety rating. While these two sedans have similar safety profiles, the ATS benefits from GM’s legendary OnStar system. In the event that the driver encounters an emergency, the OnStar system can provide immediate assistance. The Cadillac ATS also offers more active safety features, including a lane departure warning system.

The Cadillac ATS continues to draw praise for its improved interior. Minor touches such as the wood accents give the cabin an extra wow factor. When cruising around town, drivers will love the feel of the thick steering wheel. ATS owners will surely appreciate the cabin’s overall fit and finish. Meanwhile, the Audi A4 also features a very solid interior. However, Audi’s MMI infotainment system can be quite confusing to use at times.

Prospective buyers can expect both of these sporty sedans to offer a high degree of luxury. While the Cadillac ATS comes standard with heated mirrors and a key-less ignition system, A4 buyers will have to step up to a higher trim level in order to get these nifty features. The Cadillac’s 4G Wi-Fi capability also gives it a major leg up on its rival.

Although it was a heated battle, the 2015 Cadillac ATS was able to conquer the 2015 Audi A4. Despite the Audi A4’s longer stint on the car market, the Cadillac ATS could be the new king of the segment. The sedan’s superior driving dynamics and captivating styling helped it to come out on top. The 2015 Cadillac ATS is a great option for the drivers who desire a jolt of excitement.

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