owning a Cadillac ATSL is a rather distinct experience. It's a car that aims for a certain kind of presence, and in many ways, it achieves it, though not without its quirks.
The first thing you notice when you step into an ATSL is that it feels like you’re settling into something… substantial. The seats, especially upfront, have that supportive, almost cradling quality that Cadillac has been known for. They’re comfortable for long drives, which is a big plus. The materials used inside generally feel good to the touch. There’s a definite sense of luxury, with nice leather and wellfinished trims. It’s not quite Bentleylevel opulence, of course, but for its segment, it’s trying hard, and for the most part, it succeeds in making you feel a bit special.
The driving experience is where things get more nuanced. The ATSL is a rearwheeldrive sedan, and you can feel that bias. When you’re cruising on the highway, it’s smooth and planted. The suspension absorbs road imperfections reasonably well, giving you that refined, quiet ride you expect from a Cadillac. It’s a car that makes you feel insulated from the outside world, which is great for destressing after a long day.
However, when you decide to push it a bit, the character shifts. The steering is generally direct and communicative, giving you a good sense of what the front wheels are doing. It’s not as razorsharp as some of its German competitors, but it’s far from vague. The engine, often the 2.0T, provides a decent punch. It’s responsive enough for everyday overtakes and makes the car feel lively when you want it to. The transmission, while generally smooth, can sometimes feel a bit hesitant to downshift when you’re expecting instant power. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s noticeable if you’re used to more immediate gear changes.
The "L" in ATSL, for those unfamiliar, denotes its extended wheelbase, primarily for increased rear legroom. This is a significant factor if you frequently carry passengers in the back. The difference is palpable; adults can sit comfortably back there without their knees hitting the front seats, making it a more practical choice for families or those who regularly chauffeur friends or colleagues. It’s a smart adaptation for the Chinese market, which often prioritizes rearseat comfort.
On the aesthetic front, the ATSL has a distinctive look. Cadillac’s design language, with its sharp lines and aggressive grille, gives it a presence on the road. It’s certainly not as universally admired as some of the sleeker European designs, but it has a strong, angular character that some find very appealing. It stands out from the more ubiquitous luxury sedans, which can be a plus if you’re looking for something a little different.
Now, for the less glamorous aspects. The infotainment system, especially the CUE (Cadillac User Experience), was… an acquired taste. While it looked sleek and modern, the touchsensitive controls could be frustratingly unresponsive at times. You’d often find yourself tapping multiple times to get it to register your input, which could be distracting while driving. Fortunately, newer versions and updates have improved this, but early iterations were definitely a point of contention for many owners.
Fuel economy is… average for its class. It’s not going to win any awards for efficiency, but it’s also not a gasguzzler if you drive it sensibly. Maintenance costs are what you’d expect for a luxury vehicle; parts and service aren’t cheap, but that’s par for the course.
Overall, owning an ATSL is about experiencing a different flavor of luxury. It’s for someone who appreciates a comfortable and refined ride, a decent amount of power, and a distinctive style. It offers good value for money in the luxury segment, especially considering the rearseat space it provides. It might not have the same legendary badge appeal or the razorsharp driving dynamics of its most established rivals, but it carves out its own niche with its comfortable interior, solid build, and unapologetically American luxury feel. It’s a car that feels both familiar in its pursuit of comfort and distinct in its execution.