Chevrolet Epica Saloon (08-09) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 14 April 2009
The Epica is Chevrolet's first attempt at a large family saloon in the UK and like the firm's other models majors on value for money. Offering Mondeo-rivalling space for Focus money it comes well equipped with entry-level models getting air conditioning, cruise control and alloy wheels while passenger and boot space are good. Like the Kia Magentis and Dodge Avenger it represents bargain-basement family motoring but unfortunately the drab cabin and driving experience already feel behind the times.
2.5 out of 5

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2.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£14,595 - £18,876

Used price range:

£3,430 - £7,365

View all used prices

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Low prices, plenty of standard equipment

Bland styling, vague steering, dated interior, dull to drive

The Epica is Chevrolet's first attempt at a large family saloon in the UK and like the firm's other models majors on value for money. Offering Mondeo-rivalling space for Focus money it comes well equipped with entry-level models getting air conditioning, cruise control and alloy wheels while passenger and boot space are good. Like the Kia Magentis and Dodge Avenger it represents bargain-basement family motoring but unfortunately the drab cabin and driving experience already feel behind the times.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    2.5 out of 5

    "The entry-level LS model is only available with a 2.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine which..."

  • Handling

    2.5 out of 5

    "While it rides comfortably the Epica is poor through corners with excessive body roll and slow,..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    3.5 out of 5

    "There’s plenty of space in the in the Epica, and because even the entry-level version comes with..."

  • Practicality

    3 out of 5

    "With a long wheelbase providing good cabin room and a decent 480 litres of bootspace to cope with..."

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5

    "Given Chevrolet's value for money image it's no surprise that equipment levels are generous. The..."

  • Behind the wheel

    2.5 out of 5

    "The interior is light and airy but while the quality is pretty decent, everything feels dated. The..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    4 out of 5

    "Four-door family saloons don't come much cheaper than this and thanks to the low price tag, resale..."

  • Green credentials

    3 out of 5

    "The Epica doesn't perform particularly well on the eco front with average emissions of 196g/km of..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    3.5 out of 5

    "An all-disc braking system with four-channel ABS and electronic brake-force distribution is fitted..."

  • Reliability

    3.5 out of 5

    "The Epica is expected to have a decent record for reliability. The VCDi engine is already used in..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    3 out of 5

    "The petrol engine is only available as an entry-level model, but it's best avoided if you can..."

  • Buying used

    4 out of 5

    "If you're not worried about image then the Epica can make a shrewd used buy. It's low list price..."

  • Selling

    2.5 out of 5

    "Big saloons without a prestige badge can be difficult to sell, although they'll always be popular..."

Gallery

  • Interior Chevrolet Epica Saloon (08-09)
  • Exterior Chevrolet Epica Saloon (08-09)
  • Exterior Chevrolet Epica Saloon (08-09)
  • Exterior Chevrolet Epica Saloon (08-09)

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Owners' reviews