Chevrolet Epica (2003-2006): How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Model Code

The first-generation Chevrolet Epica (model code V200) was produced from 2003 to 2006. It replaced the Daewoo Magnus (also known as the Daewoo Evanda) and became part of Chevrolet’s lineup after General Motors acquired Daewoo Motors. In 2006, the model was updated (V250), but the original V200 remains an interesting example of Korean-American automotive engineering from the early 2000s.

Markets and Equivalents

The Epica V200 was sold under different names:

• Daewoo Magnus / Evanda (before rebranding)
• Suzuki Verona (in the U.S., from 2004 to 2006)
• Holden Epica (in Australia and New Zealand)

In Europe, the model was positioned as an affordable business sedan, competing with the Opel Vectra and Ford Mondeo, though it lagged behind them in prestige.

Body Types

The Epica V200 was offered in two body styles:

• Sedan – A classic four-door version, which was the primary option for European, Asian, and Latin American markets.
• Hatchback – A rare variant sold in limited quantities, mainly in South Korea under the name Daewoo Tosca.

 

Model Overview

Design and Dimensions

The Epica V200 featured a conservative yet harmonious design with smooth lines and a moderately aggressive front end. The body length was 4,800 mm, placing it in the same category as models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

Interior

The cabin offered spacious seating for five, with ample rear legroom. Trim options ranged from basic fabric to leather in top-tier versions. The dashboard had a simple but functional layout, with straightforward controls for the audio system and climate control.

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How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Open the hood and unscrew the bolts securing the headlights, then remove the headlights.
2. Remove eight push-pins and unscrew two bolts holding the top part of the bumper.
3. Turn the wheels to the side for better access to the wheel arches.
4. In the wheel arches, unscrew the bolts securing the front part of the fender liners.
5. Behind the fender liners, locate and unscrew one bolt on each side (securing the bumper corners to the fenders).
6. Under the bumper grille, pull out four push-pins (inserted from bottom to top).
7. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper forward, being mindful of any wiring.
8. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

Alternative method (with a metal reinforcement bar):

• Instead of removing the headlights and push-pins, unscrew four nuts (marked with blue arrows) securing the reinforcement bar to the chassis.

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How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Open the trunk and remove four push-pins in the opening.
2. Release the side trunk trim panels.
3. Unscrew four nuts on each side and remove the taillights.
4. Behind the taillights, pull out two push-pins on each side.
5. Inside the wheel arches, unscrew two bolts on each side (securing the bumper to the fenders).
6. From underneath, unscrew two bolts and remove four push-pins (securing the lower part of the bumper).
7. In the wheel arches, unscrew the bolts holding the rear fender liners.
8. Move the fender liners aside and unscrew one bolt on each side (securing the bumper corners).
9. With an assistant, carefully pull the bumper backward, avoiding damage to any wiring.
10. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

Alternative method (with a reinforcement bar):

• Instead of removing the taillights and push-pins, unscrew four bolts (marked with blue arrows) securing the reinforcement brackets to the chassis.

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Technical Specifications

Under the hood, the Epica V200 came with two engines:

• 2.0L (I4) – 129 HP, 186 Nm torque.
• 2.5L (I6) – 155 HP, 237 Nm torque – an unusual inline-six for its class, providing smooth operation but higher fuel consumption.

Transmission: 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual.
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive only.

Suspension

The car featured an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear setup, ensuring comfort on rough roads. However, acceleration was mediocre—even the 2.5L version took 10.5 seconds to reach 100 km/h.

 

Interesting Facts

• Rare Inline-Six Engine – The 2.5L engine was one of the last inline-six units in mid-size sedans of this price range.
• Suzuki Connection – In the U.S., the Epica was sold as the Suzuki Verona but was quickly discontinued due to poor sales.
• Safety – In Euro NCAP crash tests (2004), the model scored 3 out of 5 stars for adult occupant protection.
• Manufacturing – The car was produced in South Korea (Bupyong plant) but was also assembled in Russia (GM-AVTOVAZ in Tolyatti) for the local market.

 

Common Issues and Reliability

Typical problems with the Epica V200 included:

• Automatic transmission issues (delayed shifts, worn clutches).
• 2.5L engine weaknesses (increased oil consumption after 100,000 km).
• Rust (especially in cold climates).

However, with proper maintenance, the car could last long, and repairs remained affordable due to readily available parts.

 

Conclusion

The Chevrolet Epica V200 was a transitional model from Daewoo to Chevrolet, blending unusual engineering (like the inline-six engine) with practicality and affordability. Despite its modest performance and average reliability, it remains a notable example of GM’s integration of Korean-developed models into its global lineup.