Cadillac ATS-V to get twin-turbo V-6

Cadillac has a highly anticipated engine on its hands: the twin-turbo 3.6-liter V-6. And the engine – rated at 410 to 420 horsepower depending on its application – is beginning to find its way into the hands of automotive journalists under the hood of the XTS4 where it should bring some much-needed oomph. Along with the full-size XTS, the new V-6 will also be used to power the 2014 CTS Vsport.

Rumor has it, though, Cadillac isn’t limiting the turbo six to the big-bodied models. According to a Car and Driver report, Cadillac will also be bolting the high-test V-6 between the frame rails of the yet unannounced ATS-V where it will produce 420 horsepower 430 pound-feet of torque.

The ATS was designed with lightness at its core with extensive use of lightweight and robust materials throughout. The use of a turbo V-6 instead of a V-8 for the ATS-V is keeping with that weight saving mantra.

Many had derided Cadillac for not offering a manual transmission option in the top-end ATS V-6. Apparently, those concerns were heard as the twin-turbo ATS-V will be offered with a manual as well as the standard six-speed automatic.

Cadillac used to be synonymous with V-8s. Now with the widened application of the twin-turbo V-6 as well as the twin-turbo revealed under the hood of the Elmiraj concept, Caddy could quickly become the brand of luxury forced induction performance.