The Cadillac ATS and CTS both see high-performance V-series models added for 2016 (ATS-V and CTS-V), but buyers of the regular models also have some upgrades to look forward to. The big news is the addition of a new V-6 engine, along with the availability of an eight-speed automatic on most models that were previously offering a six-speeder.
The new engine replaces the current 3.6-liter V-6 on offer on the ATS and CTS. It still displaces 3.6 liters but benefits from fuel-saving features such as cylinder deactivation and engine stop-start. Peak power is now 333 horsepower, up slightly on the 321 hp of the previous mill.
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Cadillac plans to make cylinder deactivation a staple of its lineup. For example, the respective 6.2-liter V-8s fitted to the CTS-V and Escalade have adopted the technology and so, too, will the upcoming CT6’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6. In fact, the CT6 will be the first car to pack a six-cylinder engine combining turbocharging, cylinder deactivation and engine stop-start technologies.
2016 Cadillac CTS
An engine stop-start system is also being fitted to the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder found offered on the ATS and CTS. This engine keeps its 272-hp rating for 2016. Cadillac’s engine stop-start system relies on relies on voltage stabilization powered by ultracapacitors to re-start the engine, instead of using the car battery. This is said to allow smoother and quicker re-starts compared to previous systems, while also enhancing durability by reducing strain on the existing electrical systems.
Finally, Cadillac has confirmed that an eight-speed automatic transmission is being fitted to the 2016 ATS and CTS. Together with the cylinder deactivation and engine stop-start, the new eight-speed automatic with its extra ratios serves as a further boost to economy. Note, ATS models equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine sticks with a six-speed auto.
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