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There is no arguing that BMW has another 3 series competitor in the ATS. Yes, its first gen, is from GM, and has that chiseled body many don't love. But, at the end of the day it drives really well and its engines are competitive. The auto rags were all very complementary, except for the CUE system, touch controls, E46 era rear legroom and trunk narrowing @ wheel wells.
I was very impressed with the car drive, feel and driving position. There were a few items I thought were cheaply made, like the fake stitching on things like the door panels. Also the rear legroom is further restricted by a bulge in the unibody structure. I found that pretty strange.
If GM markets it properly, offers attractive leasing options, and corrects some of the CUE software problems, they could have a respectable showing in this first gen. We may have a reborn GM on our hands and I'm cautiously optimistic that the future is looking bright for American cars.
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