We say It’s big, cheap, reliable and very well kitted out – but not much fun and noticeably off-the-pace.Performance The Epica’s petrol unit is good for a sub second 0-62mph time and a top speed of 129mph. Although the diesel is slightly faster, it’s not as smooth – 2.0-litre petrol engine is the best option then.Emissions CO2 emissions of 169 – 210g/km are too high, but fuel economy of between 34.5 and 46.3mpg is acceptable.Driving The Epica’s cornering is affected by its weight distribution, but other than that it feels pretty solid, if unspectacular.Feel Petrol engines are smooth and refined with little engine noise, while road and wind noise is kept out too. Very comfortable overall and a decent cruiser.Space Loads of room in the Epica’s front and the rear and, at 480 litres, the boot is huge for the sector.Equipment Base Epica models feature a great standard kit: air conditioning; cruise control; electric front and rear windows; and 16-inch alloy wheels.Price The Epica appears great value for money and fuel economy makes is manageable to run. Residuals aren’t good though, so it may not be the bargain it first looks.Quality Solid build quality and as it’s a Chevrolet, reliability shouldn’t be a problem. Cheap plastics and unattractive design can be found inside the Epica however, but this is to be expected at this price point.Safety Standard safety features include ABS, driver and passenger airbags and side and head airbags. No stability control as standard, however, which is poor on a family car.Pros Loads of leg- and head-room, massive boot, great standard kit, reliable.Cons Emissions are far too high, cornering is a problem, poor residual values.Alternatives Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Vectra
