[brianch]

ATS is not a bad choice. It also comes with a 6 speed manual. Also a 4 cylinder. It's also only 200hp.

Really though I'd only get the ATS in the 2.0T at the very least.

There are many complaints on the cadillac CUE system being slow and buggy.

 

[brianch]

I drove the ATS with a very knowledgeable salesman. Even he could not convince me that CUE is ready for primetime. I drove their 'Prestige' model with the V6 (325 hp +/-). The bells and whistles are amazing and include a heads up display that has a bunch of different modes. The best feature is the magnetic ride shocks that stiffen/soften instantaneously.

The 325 ponies don't feel like they are all there, but there are strong rumors of a 'V' version with a blown V6, and I still can't get used to their exterior styling.

I have pre-ordered the CLA45, and it will probably end up just short of $60K, plus T&L. The bottom line is that this car would definitely save you some coins, and it is a worthy, but flawed, competitor. Of course the CLA ain't without flaws either.

I agree. The magnetic ride control is one of the best features in the ATS. Not so sure about everything else.

 

[brianch]

I hate to say it but I am pretty much sold on going with the (2013 - 2014) ATS 2.0L Turbo Luxury AWD. Yes its more expensive but the standard features on the ATS are longer than the CLA. Leather, Keyless access/drive, Remote Start. 272HP. Reviews on the ATS are rock solid.
I have been keeping my eye out for pricing and Cadillac is offering some really deep discounts on the 2013 MY. Low 40K for AWD/Nav/Sunroof

let us know how it goes. The ATS seems to be a great car

 

[brianch]

I don't see the CLA 250 to be a sporty as the ATS.

The ATS is marketed as a sport car and reviewers and editors seem to agree with that. The CLA not coming in manual is already a ding to it.