Chevrolet's luxury Epica delivers innovation with a new look

[B]Singapore, January 14, 2009[/B] - The new 2009 Chevrolet Epica now comes with a new striking look and advanced technologies, giving car buyers the perfect combination of better performance with a sporty, contemporary look, and without compromise to comfort and drivability.

A completely new 6-speed automatic gearbox is now available in the 2009 Epica. This new six-speed automatic gearbox optimizes engine use and delivers improved fuel economy at high speeds, compared to a typical four-speed automatic transmissions. Furthermore, the new transmission offers a smoother gearshift, offering a more comfortable ride.

At constant speeds of 90-120 km/h, the Epica 2.5 delivers a 15 percent improvement in fuel economy; performance and handling are bolstered with smaller steps in between its six gears. Besides improved launch and acceleration due to a steep 4.58:1 first gear, an overdrive sixth gear reduces engine rpm while traveling on expressways, and helps to reduce engine wear while improving fuel economy.

Although it has a higher number of gears, the new 2009 Epica is the most compact in its class - both the 2.0 and 2.5 variants are the size of a conventional four-speed transmission. This is made possible by the transmissions' advanced clutch-to-clutch operation and the help of a narrow hyper-elliptical torque converter to further minimize its size.

The new 2009 Epica also uses DEXRON-VI premium transmission fluid, which has a more consisten viscosity, improving durability and shift stability. There is no longer a need to replace the fluid over the life of the transmission during normal use.

[B]Combining style and substance in one ideal model[/B]

The new 2009 Epica presents a sophisticated, visually appealing silhouette - the body's contour shoulder line begins from before the front door and gently passes through the chrome-plated door handles all the way past the rear door for a simple touch of elegance.

Car owners who crave a sportier look have the option of upgraded design enhancements, for example, by replacing Chevrolet's trademark design of a large horizontally-split radiator grille with an enlarged grille in the same style, to project the sense of power and performance.

The Epica offers the same luxury of cabin space as its predecessors, for a comfortable drive or ride. In drive, the Epica is quiet and provides smooth ride enjoyment with luxury features such as fine quality leather, an integrated 6-CD audio system with an 8-speaker network with an MP3 plug-and-play capability. Practical functions are also at your fingertips. In addition to a trip computer that shows all driving related information, there is a sunglass holder above the electrochromatic rear view mirror and a double deck central console for easy storage of various size articles.

[B]Driving reassurance[/B]

Like its predecessor, the new 2009 Epica provides driving assurance by having multiple safety features. It is fitted with a steel safety cage surrounding the car to provide reinforced protection in the event of a collision. This is in addition to a standard host of features, such as dual front airbags for the 2.0 liter version (dual front and side airbags for the 2.5 liter version), ABS and traction control. ISOFIX child safety fittings are also in place for the safety of children onboard.

Mr. Kittichai, MD of General Motors ODC, said, "The new 2009 Epica is an example of the type of car that drivers can expect from Chevrolet - one that combines a refreshing contemporary look, technological advancements that top its class, yet with an attractive price in its competitive class. We are especially proud of our 6-speed automatic transmission, which offers a smoother drive without compromising fuel economy. We will continue to raise the bar with each new model, and will continue to give customers the perfect driving experience."

The Epica will be available in two engine variants: The 2.0 and 2.5 liter. The 2.0 liter variant is capable of up to 141 hp at 6,400rpm and a maximum torque of 195Nm at 4,600rpm. The 2.5 liter variant is able to reach 154 hp at 5,800rpm, with a maximum torque figure of 237Nm at 4,000rpm.

The new Epica is available in a variety of elegant colours: Placid Grey, Switchblade Silver, Kandinsky Red, Galaxy White, Thunder Grey, Carbon Flash, and Linen Beige.

The 2009 Epica luxury sedan is now available at the price of $70,488 for the 2.0 liter variant, while the pricing and availability of the 2.5 liter model will be available upon request. Interested buyers can contact the nearest Chevrolet dealer for a test drive. Check out the Chevrolet website for more information.


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Credits: JRC