[King T]

#3 Wait until the Detroit Auto Show in Jan. to see the ATS-V. There are rumors of it possibly having 500hp

A new report suggests that the upcoming ATS-V performance sedan will not, as previous rumors had suggested, use an upgraded version of the CTS V-Sport's twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V6.

Instead, the ATS-V will rely on a smaller twin-turbo 3.2-liter V6, according to an Automobile Magazine report that does not cite sources.

If that proves to be the case, enthusiasts need not fret that a downsized motor will equate to disappointing power. Apparently, the 3.2-liter, which is a close relative of the 3.6-liter, has been selected because it provides a sturdier base for achieving the level of output that GM's engineers are after - namely, a minimum of 500 horsepower.

That kind of firepower would give the ATS-V a decided edge compared with one of its key rivals, the 430-horsepower BMW M3.

Little else is known about the ATS-V, but spy photos suggest that the sedan will set itself apart from its humbler kin with a more aggressive front fascia complete with larger air intakes and a deeper chin spoiler. A model-specific headlight treatment with LED accents, unique wheels and quad exhaust-outlets are also expected.