DETROIT – GM officially began production of its 2013 Cadillac ATS compact luxury sedan at its Lansing Grand River assembly plant in Michigan. The all-new vehicle will arrive in U.S. dealerships in August, moving the Cadillac brand into the “highest volume category in the luxury automotive industry,” GM stated.

The ATS features three engine choices, including two four-cylinder engines and a V-6 for North America. GM is offering the Cadillac ATS with manual and automatic six-speed transmission options and rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations. According to the EPA and Fueleconomy.gov, the ATS' fuel economy figures are combined MPG of 26, 22 mpg city, and 33 mpg highway.

“This is a car with a big mission, and it’s been comprehensively prepared for that mission,” said Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac Marketing. “The new-from-the-ground-up ATS creates a new entryway into the Cadillac brand for luxury car drivers, and a compelling new challenger to the status quo among the top luxury sport sedans.”

GM said the all-new ATS features a new lightweight vehicle architecture that utilizes advanced materials and techniques to ensure precise driving dynamics. The automaker said the ATS features Magnetic Ride Control, the Safety Alert Seat, and the Cadillac CUE infotainment system.