**Pictures are sideways, I know, I apologize...also know this, I'm lazy**
Picked this up the other night. Fantastic car.
2018 ATS 2.0L Turbo AWD, Phantom Grey
272HP
295ft/lb
Came with remote start, sunfroof, wheels locks, rubber floor mats and heated seats as factory installed options.
First impressions:
Powertrain:
Transmission: It's fussy (GM 8L45). It does NOT like to be driven before it is warmed up, the first shift when cold is flinchingly abrupt. I'm hoping that this will improve as the transmission learns, the car only had 8 miles on it when I pulled out of the dealership. However, once warmed up, it shifts very quick and smooth, can hardly feel it. I have to watch the tach if I want to know when it's shifting sometimes. It just doesn't have finesse you'd expect from this level of car, the transmission in the Sonata was more refined.
Engine (GM LTG, http://www.gmpowertrain.com/engines/docs/GMQD16CL460_LTG_Product%20PDF.pdf): While I haven't yet been able to really DRIVE the car (1,500 mile break-in), from the couple times I've lightly gotten on it, this thing will move and the low-end torque is delicious. Once broken in, I am really going to enjoy this motor. 93 octane is highly recommended but can run on as low as 87, but with reduced mpg and performance. I'll always run at least 91. This is my first turbo car and I'm looking forward to seeing the performance they give.
Auto Stop-Start: What a dreadful technology to put on such a good motor. I disable it every time I start the car and am irritated I cannot turn it off permanently.
Suspension:
Steering: So much better than the 2017 Sonata I traded in. Tracks dead on-center. I've actually been able to understand what "feedback" is in relation to steering. I am sad about the steering wheel, I hate 3-spoke steering wheels. Going to be an adjustment.
Ride: Ride is kind of rough, but I knew this and accepted it in return for the Alpha platform.
Handling: Crisp, sharp turns, you can really drive a corner in this thing. Light, nimble, responsive, athletic. Everything I wanted. Fully understand why this Alpha platform found it's way into the Camaro. It's very good.
Brakes: 4-piston Brembo in the front, 2-piston Brembo (I think) in the rear. Stops on a dime.
Cabin:
Interior: Overall, I am in love with the interior. Very nicely done. I am not thrilled with the CUE system, but apparently, for the 2018 model it got a much needed upgrade, so I'd hate to know what it was like before.
Noise: By FAR the quietest car I've ever owned and I've really enjoyed that. I felt the Sonata was overly loud.
Seats: Recaro seats, some of the best seats I've ever sat in. I am, however, having a hard time finding my comfy spot. This car is a tad small for a 6ft tall person.
Now, can the break-in be done already! I want to drive this thing!
First impressions:
Powertrain:
Transmission: It's fussy (GM 8L45). It does NOT like to be driven before it is warmed up, the first shift when cold is flinchingly abrupt. I'm hoping that this will improve as the transmission learns, the car only had 8 miles on it when I pulled out of the dealership. However, once warmed up, it shifts very quick and smooth, can hardly feel it. I have to watch the tach if I want to know when it's shifting sometimes. It just doesn't have finesse you'd expect from this level of car, the transmission in the Sonata was more refined.
Engine (GM LTG, http://www.gmpowertrain.com/engines/docs/GMQD16CL460_LTG_Product%20PDF.pdf): While I haven't yet been able to really DRIVE the car (1,500 mile break-in), from the couple times I've lightly gotten on it, this thing will move and the low-end torque is delicious. Once broken in, I am really going to enjoy this motor. 93 octane is highly recommended but can run on as low as 87, but with reduced mpg and performance. I'll always run at least 91. This is my first turbo car and I'm looking forward to seeing the performance they give.
Auto Stop-Start: What a dreadful technology to put on such a good motor. I disable it every time I start the car and am irritated I cannot turn it off permanently.
Suspension:
Steering: So much better than the 2017 Sonata I traded in. Tracks dead on-center. I've actually been able to understand what "feedback" is in relation to steering. I am sad about the steering wheel, I hate 3-spoke steering wheels. Going to be an adjustment.
Ride: Ride is kind of rough, but I knew this and accepted it in return for the Alpha platform.
Handling: Crisp, sharp turns, you can really drive a corner in this thing. Light, nimble, responsive, athletic. Everything I wanted. Fully understand why this Alpha platform found it's way into the Camaro. It's very good.
Brakes: 4-piston Brembo in the front, 2-piston Brembo (I think) in the rear. Stops on a dime.
Cabin:
Interior: Overall, I am in love with the interior. Very nicely done. I am not thrilled with the CUE system, but apparently, for the 2018 model it got a much needed upgrade, so I'd hate to know what it was like before.
Noise: By FAR the quietest car I've ever owned and I've really enjoyed that. I felt the Sonata was overly loud.
Seats: Recaro seats, some of the best seats I've ever sat in. I am, however, having a hard time finding my comfy spot. This car is a tad small for a 6ft tall person.
Now, can the break-in be done already! I want to drive this thing!
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