Is the Cadillac ATS Worth It? A Review of Costs and Value

If you’ve ever dreamt of cruising in a sleek luxury sedan without paying six figures, the Cadillac ATS might’ve caught your eye. Designed to rival European icons like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the ATS was GM’s answer to the compact luxury sedan segment. But is the Cadillac ATS really worth it in terms of cost, reliability, and long-term ownership value?

In this comprehensive review, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from Cadillac ATS specs and features, fuel economy, and repair costs to real-world owner reviews and depreciation rates. If you're considering a used Cadillac ATS for sale, you’ll want to read this first.

What is the Cadillac ATS?

The Cadillac ATS debuted in 2013 and remained in production until 2019, available in both sedan and coupe configurations. Positioned as a compact luxury sedan, the ATS aimed to offer the style and sophistication of German rivals but at a more competitive price point.

Cadillac ATS Specs varied by trim and year, but highlights included:

• Turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder or optional 3.6L V6
• Rear-wheel or all-wheel drive
• 8-speed automatic or optional 6-speed manual
• Magnetic Ride Control on higher trims
• Brembo brakes and performance packages for sportier handling

The ATS won praise for its driving dynamics and premium interior materials, making it an exciting choice in the luxury car ownership world.

Cadillac ATS Features and Tech

Depending on the year and trim, Cadillac ATS features included:

• Cadillac CUE infotainment system
• Navigation and premium Bose audio
• Leather seating and wood trim
• Heated seats and steering wheel
• Advanced safety features like lane keep assist and blind-spot monitoring

While the ATS was loaded with tech, the CUE system received criticism for being sluggish and unintuitive—something to keep in mind if you're buying a used model.

Cadillac ATS Cost of Ownership

Now let’s dig into the dollars and cents. One of the biggest questions buyers ask is:

How much does it cost to own a Cadillac ATS per year?

According to data from RepairPal, average Cadillac ATS maintenance costs run around $750 per year. That’s higher than the segment average, due in part to its luxury components and turbocharged engines.

Here’s a breakdown of Cadillac ATS long-term costs:

• Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, brakes, filters = ~$250–$500/year
• Common Repairs: Turbocharger issues, thermostat replacement, electrical malfunctions
• Cost of Insurance: Averages between $1,400–$1,800 per year, depending on age and driving history
• Fuel Economy: 2.0L Turbo models average 22 MPG city / 31 MPG highway

Considering fuel and maintenance, the true cost of owning a used Cadillac ATS hovers around $3,000–$4,000 annually, which is moderate for a luxury sedan but higher than some Japanese alternatives.

Cadillac ATS Reliability and Common Problems

Reliability is key to determining a car’s long-term value. So how does the ATS fare?

Cadillac ATS reliability ratings by year vary. JD Power gave the 2016 model a solid 4 out of 5, while earlier models, like 2013–2014, were more problematic.

Common problems with the Cadillac ATS include:

• Turbocharger failure (especially in the 2.0T models)
• Infotainment system glitches (CUE)
• Timing chain issues in some V6 engines
• Premature brake wear

Resources like CarComplaints and owner forums consistently highlight these issues.

Still, with regular service and proper care, many owners report the Cadillac ATS is a good car, particularly post-2015 models.

Cadillac ATS Depreciation and Resale Value

Like many luxury cars, the ATS has experienced rapid depreciation. A 2016 Cadillac ATS originally priced around $42,000 might now list for under $18,000, depending on condition and mileage.

Why the steep drop? Luxury cars tend to depreciate faster due to:

• High maintenance costs
• Technology obsolescence
• Brand perception vs. German rivals

On the flip side, this depreciation makes the used Cadillac ATS an affordable entry point into luxury.

Cadillac ATS vs. Competitors

Let’s see how the ATS stacks up against the top dogs in the compact luxury space:

While the ATS offers excellent driving performance and value, the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 edge it out in reliability and tech integration.

Who Should Buy a Cadillac ATS?

The Cadillac ATS is a great buy if you’re:

• Seeking a fun-to-drive, performance-oriented luxury sedan
• Willing to stay on top of maintenance and repairs
• Looking for a used vehicle with strong value-for-money appeal

Avoid it if you want rock-solid reliability and low ongoing costs—models like the Lexus IS or Acura TLX may be better.

Owner Reviews and Long-Term Experience

A scan of real Cadillac ATS owner reviews reveals a mix of praise and criticism.

Pros of Cadillac ATS ownership:

• Sporty handling, tight steering
• High-quality interior materials
• Smooth ride on highway
• Distinctive American styling

Cons of Cadillac ATS ownership:

• Reliability concerns in early models
• Costly repairs after 60,000 miles
• Poor resale value
• Subpar infotainment experience

Still, many long-term owners love their ATS, especially those who opted for the V6 Premium trim.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Beyond sticker price and MPG, buyers should be aware of the hidden costs of Cadillac ATS ownership:

• Higher repair bills due to performance parts
• Premium fuel requirement for turbo models
• Expensive tire replacements for sport trims
• Warranty expiration woes

This is where a vehicle service contract from Noble Quote can bring total peace of mind, covering unexpected repairs and giving you access to 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and more.

👉 Learn more about our coverage plans in the Noble Quote Learning Center

Final Verdict: Is the Cadillac ATS Worth It?

The Cadillac ATS is a bold, high-performing sedan that delivers luxury at a lower upfront cost. If you’re looking for a used luxury car with sporty vibes, the ATS is absolutely worth considering—but only if you’re prepared for the ongoing maintenance and potential repair costs.

For budget-conscious luxury lovers, it’s smart to protect your investment. That’s why many drivers choose to get an extended service plan from Noble Quote—because when it comes to used luxury vehicles, premium protection equals peace of mind.