EUREKA EPICA

The Chevrolet Epica brings six - cylinders and high specification for family car money, writes Paddy Comyn

Breaking into a segment that has been so monopolised by such a small group of cars is no mean feat but that is what Chevrolet are setting out to do with their new arrival – the Epica. You can think of this car in a couple of ways. You can think of it as a well-equipped, six-cylinder rival to the likes of a Ford Mondeo or Volkswagen Passat, or you can think of it as a better value rival to something like a BMW 316i.

An Epica Journey

You might be fearful when you hear of a brand like Chevrolet, who is still something of a novelty to us here in Ireland, producing a car of this size. After all, their previous attempt while still badged as a Daewoo, the Leganza was shockingly bad. But at least on first impressions, this car looks the part. This is an upmarket looking car that has been designed in-house and has good proportions and pretty detailing.

Inside the cabin is good too. The dials are clear and well laid out and it uses generally decent quality plastics throughout the interior. Often in cars of this sort, which are crossing over a couple of segments, the interiors can be a letdown. Thankfully that is not the case here.

Smooth and Refined

The Epica comes in Ireland with an in-line sixcylinder, 2.0-litre engine, mounted transversely and this makes it somewhat unusual in the segment. Even executive cars in Ireland come with small engines wherever possible so having a six-cylinder engine puts the Epica in something of a unique position. The result is that this is a very smooth and refined car both in terms of the engine and the ride quality. The car’s suspension will absorb whatever the worst roads can throw at it. The trade-off for this is rather unremarkable steering feel but we suspect the majority of owners of this car will not be buying it as a sports car.

Automatic Upgrade

The model we were driving was the LS and with that you get 16” alloy wheels and air conditioning. Spend €32,495 on the higher spec LT model and you get automatic transmission, cruise control, climate control and leather upholstery. Where the Epica might struggle is with its engine size. Certainly the 1.8-litre, which is available in its home market, would suit the Irish market better. However anyone wanting something different, the Epica will not disappoint because it is comfortable, well-equipped and ultimately good value.

Published in the July/August 2007 Issue of Irish Entrepreneur