Cadillac Says There is No V-8 ATS-V+ in the Works

2016 Cadillac ATS-V Sedan (Credit: © Cadillac)

Recently, I reported on a leak that Cadillac will cram the 7.0-liter LS7 V-8 into the Cadillac ATS-V and create the even more insane ATS-V+. Well, apparently, that report is completely untrue. At least that’s what Cadillac’s communications manager David Caldwell told the folks at Motor Authority. In a brief conversation with Caldwell, he made it crystal clear that the ATS-V will remain a V-6-powered car. He said, “The ATS-V we have today is supremely capable—so much so that it’s unlikely to receive a larger, or different engine in the foreseeable future.” He also made it clear that Cadillac already has a V-8-powered V-Series model in the CTS-V. Caldwell expanded upon his denial with a pretty good argument. He claims that Cadillac wants the ATS-V and CTS-V to be related, but not twins. The automaker needs the two to have different personalities, which is something that the V-6 and V-8 engines offer. The ATS-V, despite being an insanely fast luxury rig, is the more approachable of the two, thanks to its twin-turbo V-6, whereas the CTS-V is for those looking for something completely insane with the convenience of four doors. I also feel that Cadillac thinks that the 7.0-liter-powered ATS-V would get a little too close to the performance range of the CTS-V. Letting the ATS-V get too close to the CTS-V could make the more expensive CTS-V a tough sale. It really is sad to see that this report was nothing but hot air, but it is nice that Cadillac stepped up and squashed it quickly before it spread too far. I am sure there is plenty more up Caddy’s sleeve when it comes to the V-Series lineup, so keep it locked here for more details.