King Crimson: 2014 Cadillac ATS Special Edition Revealed

Despite plenty of critical acclaim—including being named the 2013 North American Car of the Year—the 2014 Cadillac ATS is still fighting for visibility in a segment dominated by the BMW 3-Series. That may change once folks see the new ATS Crimson Sport, however, and it won't be easy to miss. After all, it wears a striking Crimson Red Metallic exterior finish that's likely to leave a lasting impact on their eyeballs.

That's especially the case since the 2014 Cadillac ATS Crimson Sport is further accented by 18-inch "Manoogian Dark Silver Premium Painted" wheels and a full ground-effects package that integrates a body-color front splitter, rocker moldings, rear diffuser and rear decklid-mounted spoiler. Owners will enjoy some upgrades in the cabin, too, with a heated steering wheel and heated front seats, both of which, along with the car's shift lever are covered in a premium microfiber suede. Then, to set off the special edition's new paint job, Cadillac will offer the Crimson Sport with four different interior themes that combine Jet Black accents with Morello Red, Caramel, Jet Black or Light Platinum cockpit appointments.

The Crimson Sport editions are only being produced during this spring, and can be configured with either the 2014 Cadillac ATS 2.0T Performance package or the 3.6L Premium setup. The former, priced from $46,010, will combine the aforementioned style enhancements with a 272-hp turbocharged engine, while the latter, boasting a 321-hp naturally aspirated V6, will be offered from $51,010.

Both will offer standard features like the Cadillac CUE connectivity/infotainment system, typical top safety measures (including forward-collision alert and lane-departure warning), Bluetooth technology and Bose premium audio, but each is then fine-tuned for a focus on either superior sport-sedan performance or range-topping luxury; although, to be clear, the turbo version provide plenty of premium goodies, such as eight-way power-adjustable front seats and adaptive remote start, while the 3.6L model offers performance enhancers like all-wheel drive and a hi-po Track Package.

Per Cadillac, drivers can expect the 2014 Cadillac ATS Crimson Sport in dealerships before the end of March.