The all-new Cadillac ATS has been named the 2013 Car of the Year by the Motor Press Guild, the largest automotive media association in North America. The ATS was chosen from a field of six finalists in part for its safety, quality, performance and technology.

“In many ways, the ATS is a breakthrough vehicle for Cadillac,” said Laura Burstein, president of the Los Angeles-based Motor Press Guild. “Our members remarked that the ATS is capable on both the street and the track, offers a well-made and attractive interior, is replete with the latest technology, and — perhaps most importantly — is fun to drive.”

“The ATS is the result of an extensive, all new, ground-up mission to deliver a segment-winning vehicle,” says Don Butler, VP of Cadillac Marketing. “It is especially rewarding when our efforts are recognized and awarded by a large and influential panel of automotive experts.”

To be eligible for the Motor Press Guild Vehicle of the Year award, models must be all-new or substantially changed from the previous year and available at dealerships on or before Jan. 1, 2013.

Related news: Cadillac ATS recognized by Popular Mechanics in Luxury category for its annual Auto Excellence Awards