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Chevrolet knows precisely at which part of the fleet market it is aiming the Epica - there'll be an extended-mileage programme set up for taxi drivers from launch.
While Chevrolet could be accused of a lack of ambition, this could prove a shrewd move with the Epica.
Pricing is easily the new saloon's strong point. The generously equipped 150PS 2.0-litre diesel we drove in range-topping LT trim has a P11D of £16,370.
This is for a car that has a wheelbase as long as the Renault Laguna's, has a boot of 480 litres, and is packed with features. Anti-skid control, 17-inch alloy wheels, a six-disc CD changer, climate and cruise control, auto wipers and parking sensors are just some of the items included as standard.
Emissions of 169g/km keep the Epica in the 24% tax band and its 46.3mpg is acceptable, if not fantastic.
So, on paper the Epica makes sense. Get behind the wheel, however, and it becomes more apparent where the pennies have been saved.
We could forgive the cheap-feeling steering wheel, but having no reach adjustment is annoying, and the car's handling is compromised by a degree of play in the steering. Also, the gearchange feels sloppy and imprecise, but the brakes are of most concern. The first word I noted down was 'underwhelming', but they were even less confidence-inspiring than that. A loud but capable engine means the driving experience isn't completely compromised, however.
The Epica is by no means a class leader, but it will make sense to buyers looking for value for money.
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