Toronto Autoshow – New mid-sized Chevrolet Epica competes with Sonata, Magentis

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Toronto, Ontario – GM of Canada unveiled the new 2004 Chevrolet Epica 4-door mid-size sedan, to be available by early 2004 in LS and LT trim.

“Chevrolet is moving at full throttle and we’re very confident the Chevrolet Epica will play a major role in GM’s quest for growth in the mid-size sedan segment,” said Don Johnson, General Director of Marketing at GM of Canada.

Although its direct competitors are the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Magentis, GM says the Epica provides Canadians with an attractive alternative to European sedans costing thousands more.

Under the hood is a 2.5-litre, 24-valve DOHC, in-line six-cylinder engine. It features a variable intake system, lightweight all-aluminum construction, and is rated at 155 hp @ 5800 rpm and 177 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. As with all GM products sold in Canada, the Epica is equipped with a standard block heater.

The engine is mated to an intelligent 4-speed automatic transmission with a standard gated shifter. Its control system can recognize and remember the driver’s preferences, shifting automatically from economy, to normal, to sport mode as needed. The transmission also adjusts for uphill or downhill driving and helps control the car on slippery roads.

The Epica features a four-wheel independent suspension, 15-inch all-season steel belted radials (16-inch on LT models) and power-assisted rack and pinion steering. Inside are standard AM/FM/CD stereo with four speakers, air conditioning, power windows, keyless entry and power door locks, cruise control, tilt steering wheel and woodgrain trim.

The Epica is backed by General Motors’ 5-year/100,000 km powertrain and 3-year/60,000 km total warranty, as well GM Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation services.

The Epica, along with Aveo and Optra, rounds out Chevrolet’s small and mid-size portfolio.