Taxi Driver Online

I wonder if we will ever see one of these licensed as a cab or P/H?

Evening Gazette

May 30, 2008, Friday

Epica proportions for Chevrolet's new saloon

THE Koreans have something of a monopoly on budget-buy large saloons.

We have had the Kia Magentis, the Hyundai Sonata and, going back even further, the Daewoo Leganza.

Now comes the Chevrolet Epica and although it bears an American badge it's actually built in South Korea.

That's down to Chevrolet's parent group General Motors acquiring the Daewoo car company several years ago.

Since then, Chevrolet's Korean-made portfolio - the Matiz, the Lacetti and the like - has grown in stature in the UK and the Epica is no exception.

Not only is it big it is also very well put together and priced from pounds 13,595 the Epica becomes the cheapest six cylinder petrol model on sale in Britain.

The Epica is a full-blown saloon of near limousine proportions for the same price as a 1.4-litre hatchback.

The entry level Epica LS is powered by a two-litre, 141bhp engine and Chevrolet has opted for a six cylinder inline set up to improve refinement.

Available only as a five speed manual, the Epica LS can accelerate from 0 to 60 in a shade under ten seconds with a claimed top speed of 129mph. However, average fuel economy of 34.5mpg results in CO2 emissions of 205g/km so it is not as tax friendly as smaller rivals.

But the Epica has a trick up its sleeve and it comes in the shape of a two-litre diesel engine.

It's just as quick as the petrol version but will average more than 45mpg which slashes emissions to 169g/km.

The diesel is available on LS models from pounds 14,595 and the higher specification Epica LT from pounds 16,595 - at which point the Epica becomes quite compelling.

It is not the most stylish car on the road - in fact it's big and bland - but what you get for what you pay is amazing value for money.

All versions come with air conditioning, cruise control, electric windows all round and sound systems which are MP3 compatible.

The LT goes the whole hog with climate control, leather seats (heated in the front), parking sensors and electronic stability controls all included as standard which is exec spec at a fraction of the cost.

The Epica LT is available only with the diesel engine and it also comes with an onboard computer which not only makes the instrument panel look more complete but also provides an outside temperature display - something you don't get on the LS versions.

Inside the Epica is large, especially in the back, and there is the nice touch of the front seat passenger having their own seatbelt and airbag warning lights at the end of the dash. Boot space is generous at 480 litres and there is more cargo room available with the rear seats foldable if necessary

While it is comfortable and relatively palatial for pounds 17,000, its handling is not up to par compared to the likes of the Ford Mondeo.

The Epica displays its Far Eastern roots in bends where its ride is noticeably softer than European models.

A six speed automatic gearbox is available on the LS for a further pounds 1,100 and while it's smooth in operation it reduces fuel economy to 37.2mpg with associated increases in CO 2 output to 210g/km.

The auto is likely to appeal to a more mature audience than the manual models which are well set up to satisfy many a grown up family's needs.

The Epica is large, capable and priced to punch above its weight with a build quality which sets new standards for Korean made cars.
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