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It used to be Daewoo, but the company is now called General Motors Daewoo Automotive Technologies (GM-DAT). It's owned by GM and Holden has a controlling share, which is why the Korean operation is the preferred source for small-medium product.
The latest from GM-DAT is a more thrifty and sophisticated version of the Epica mid-size sedan. There's a slightly new look, a new diesel-engine option and a new gearbox across the range.
What's new? Holden has always pushed thrift as an Epica strong point - it used to claim that the 2.5-litre straight-six petrol version was as economical as a four-cylinder machine, with ADR fuel economy of 9.3 litres per 100km. But the car now has true eco-credentials, with the addition of a 2.0-litre turbo diesel ver- sion that manages 7.6 litres per 100km.
All Epicas now get a six-speed automatic gearbox (the previous petrol car had a five-speeder) with pseudo-manual "Active Select" mode.
Electronic stability control, which automatically brakes individual wheels and/or reduces engine output to help prevent loss of control in an emergency situation, is standard across the range.
Six airbags are fitted to all versions.
The exterior has been mildly revised with a new grille, rear fascia and different alloy wheels. Telescopic steering adjustment has been added and the top Epica CDXi gets heated front seats and rear-park assist.
There's still a price premium for the diesel engine, though: $3500 on the CDX and CDXi models. Prices range from $33,490 for the entry petrol to $40,990 for the flag- ship diesel.
The company line "The mid-size segment is highly competitive but the Epica range represents fantastic value for money, outstanding safety features, more luxury and now a four-cylinder turbo diesel engine that delivers effortless performance and outstanding fuel economy," says Holden New Zealand marketing manager, Matthew Woodley. "These additions, combined with generous interior space, reinforce the Epica as the smart choice for any consumer in this market.
"There's no doubt, when coupled with our sharp pricing strategy, the new Epica ticks the right boxes. This is a car that demands attention."
What we say The mid-size segment is filled with brand new models; the Epica remains a rehash of an old Daewoo.
Holden has done a lot of development work on the car but at heart the Epica is largely based on the year 2000 Daewoo Magnus, which was developed from the Leganza of 1997. So it's always going to be on the back foot against more up-to-date competition.
But the changes do make the Epica more sophisticated. The engine was co-developed with diesel specialist VM Motori and is similar to the Captiva. On specification, the six-speed gearbox brings the Epica up with the class best.
On the road The diesel engine is smooth and remarkably refined. So, too, is the car.
It steers and rides well on both back roads and motorways.
There's nothing wrong with the Epica. There's really nothing special about it either.
What's stopping you? The Epica CDTi has a nice powertrain. But at the end of the day, the car still has to sell on value because most of the competition is more modern.
It certainly does that, but it's never going to be what you'd call desirable - it's a fleet/budget proposition first and foremost. And don't you think it still looks a bit funny?
