SAIC General Motors’ long-wheelbase variant of the ATS is available exclusively for the Chinese Market for over a year now, but the automobile received some improvements already.

Remaining relevant in a high-demanding market is tough, but it seems that the Chinese-built ATS-L won’t go down without a fight. Featuring an extended wheelbase by 85mm (3.3in) compared to the standard model, the new and improved variant will come with an all-new eight speed transmission and GM’s start-stop system.

In fact, GM says that these new features will significantly enhance the ATS-L’s shifting responsiveness and fuel efficiency, especially as the car has a perfect 50/50 weight distribution, high-strength, lightweight architecture, magnetic ride control suspension, high-performance runflat tires and Bremo brakes.

With the new upgrades, Cadillac hopes that the ATS-L will appeal in China’s mainstream luxury sedan segment, especially to younger buyers. Mind you, its 2.0-litre SIDI turbocharged engine, which boasts 275hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, is very appealing.

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