The ATS is so close to the BMW 3-series, you’ll wonder if the BMW is exhausted from constantly checking its review mirror. Believe it or not, this sedan (and handsome coupe) actually steers and handles better than its Teutonic target. There are three engine choices: a 202-hp four is standard, a 272-hp turbo four (available with a six-speed manual) or a 333-hp V-6 are optional. Each has rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic; all-wheel drive is an option on the turbo four and V-6. More important, the two-door ATS also does better than hold its own in terms of fancy footwork. High chassis rigidity, a firm suspension (GM’s Magnetic Ride Control), a slightly wider front and rear track than the sedan’s, and quick (2.7 turns lock-to-lock) ZF rack-mounted electric steering combine to provide the sense of connection that prompts drivers to seek the long way home and sends them forth on lengthy weekend forays with no particular destination. The little Candy exhibits gunfighter-quick reflexes, minimal body motions, and nicely weighted steering, although it could benefit from a little more on-center feel.

This car has almost no issues over the 8,000 miles and 1 year its been owned. Once, the trunk was stuck shut but with an hour of googling we got it open. The interior looks sleek because of CUE, but people who are used to knobs will probably find CUE frustrating. For me, it is fine because I hardly mess with it anyway and the only controls I use (volume, previous or next song) are on the steering wheel. I like the interior personally, and the build quality feels sturdy. If you push on the door from inside it doesn't really move. If you push the door on my friend's Prius, you can literally push the plastic in a whole inch. The car feels solid yet nimble, with a 0-60 time of 5.7 seconds. It is about as much power as can be safely used on the road anyway. It has very good handling, and I think the handling is something that people can agree upon. There is some turbo lag, but nothing too bad. I personally love the looks of this car, especially the rear end. The seating position is low and that's something I like. It has all the features I personally want, such as Bluetooth, a decent Bose sound system, a backup camera, and good climate control. I personally average 24.8 MPG with a mix of city driving and freeway in Los Angeles. Once, I averaged 39.3 MPG on a longer 50 minute drive that was mostly highway with some city mixed in. If you really try, this car can give you good MPG. However, the car recommends 91 octane fuel so that can be a little more expensive.