Chicago show opens 4–door newcomers

CHICAGO | A new freshman steps into the compact car segment on the final day of the 2012 Chicago Auto Show for a look–back to the Class of 1976 and the return of the Chrysler–built Dodge Dart.

The 2013 Dodge Dart is the first vehicle born of Chrysler Group's marriage to corporate parent Fiat with an "Imported from Detroit" credo based on a platform developed by the Italian automaker's Alfa Romeo brand.

Dart's European styling and sporty demeanor replaces the outgoing Dodge Caliber and will be built at the Chrysler Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill.

The 2013 Dodge Dart is available in five trim levels – from the budget–driven SE model starting at $15,995 to the performance–based R/T model.

Dart specific Mopar accessories available to buyers at local dealers can add a personal and distinctive touch to their car's appeal.

Engine choices range from a base 160–horsepower two–liter, four–cylinder to a 1.4–liter turbo that reels 40 miles per gallon. A high–output, 2.4-liter, four–cylinder also is available.

The engines are mated to a conventional six–speed manual, dual–clutch or six–speed automatic transmission.

Dodge Dart's sleek aerodynamic exterior is led with a split crosshair grille bookended by deep–socket sweptback head lights that point to a high beltline and narrow side window treatment. Full–width LED tail lamps highlight the rear fascia.

Inside, Dart features an 8.4–inch touch screen, racy gauge cluster, form–fitted seats and soft touch materials. Napa leather is optional.

Cadillac ups the anti

General Motors' Cadillac Division takes on the global luxury car market with the introduction of the 2013 Cadillac ATS.

The ATS is based on a new luxury compact platform aimed squarely at the BMW 3–Series and Mercedes–Benz C–Class.

Cadillac ATS will initially be offer with a 202–horsepower, four–cylinder engine, a 270–hp turbocharged four cylinder and a potent V6 power plant that boasts 315 horsepower.

Engines will be coupled to a rear– or all–wheel drivetrain with manual or automatic transmission. A diesel engine and twin–turbo option will likely be offered later in the ATS production run.

Interior appointments feature a contoured interior with genuine wood, brushed metal or carbon fiber trim along with Cadillac's new high–tech CUE infotainment system.

The 2013 Cadillac ATS will be assembled in Lancing, Mich., and is scheduled to on sale this summer. Price has not been announced.