The Chevrolet Onix 1.4 Automatic (facelifted in 2017) represented a significant entry point into the popular Onix hatchback range in the Brazilian market, and subsequently in other Latin American countries. Produced from 2017 to 2019, this variant offered a blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and the convenience of an automatic transmission, catering to urban drivers. It was positioned as a mid-range offering within the Onix lineup, slotting below the more powerful 1.0 Turbo and above the base 1.0 models. The Onix, built on General Motors’ global Gamma platform (also underpinning models like the Opel Corsa and Fiat Palio), quickly became a best-seller, and the 1.4 Automatic played a key role in its success.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Onix |
| Generation | Onix I (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (98/106 Hp) Ethanol Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm, 119 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.6 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 106 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 76.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 4800 rpm, 93.67 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 136 Nm @ 4800 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6300 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SPE/4 ECO |
| Engine displacement | 1389 cm3, 84.76 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.6 mm, 3.06 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 73.4 mm, 2.89 in. |
| Compression ratio | 12.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l, 3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt |
| Coolant | 5.4 l, 5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1067-1074 kg, 2352.33 – 2367.76 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 1449 kg, 3194.5 lbs. |
| Max load | 375-382 kg, 826.73 – 842.17 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l, 9.89 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l, 14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal |
| Length | 3933 mm, 154.84 in. |
| Width | 1705 mm, 67.13 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 1964 mm, 77.32 in. |
| Height | 1475-1476 mm, 58.07 – 58.11 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2528 mm, 99.53 in. |
| Front track | 1487-1492 mm, 58.54 – 58.74 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1489-1492 mm, 58.62 – 58.74 in. |
| Front overhang | 825 mm, 32.48 in. |
| Rear overhang | 580 mm, 22.83 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 123 mm, 4.84 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.43 m, 34.22 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 240×20 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 200×31.5 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14; 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 15; 5.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Onix 1.4 Automatic is the SPE/4 ECO engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine is flex-fuel capable, meaning it can run on gasoline, ethanol (E85), or any blend of the two. When running on ethanol, the engine produces 106 horsepower and 136 Nm of torque, a noticeable increase over the 98 horsepower and 127 Nm produced on gasoline. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. The compression ratio is relatively high at 12.4:1, contributing to its efficiency. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel economy and drivability over outright performance.
The transmission paired with the 1.4-liter engine is a six-speed automatic. This transmission was a relatively new addition to the Onix lineup at the time of the facelift, offering a smoother and more convenient driving experience compared to the available manual transmission. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel efficiency, with relatively conservative gear ratios.
Driving Characteristics
The Onix 1.4 Automatic delivers adequate performance for everyday driving in urban environments. Acceleration is not particularly brisk, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 11-12 seconds. However, the engine is responsive enough for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but can sometimes feel hesitant when downshifting. The ethanol-fueled version provides a noticeable boost in power, making it feel more lively. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride over uneven surfaces. However, this comes at the expense of handling, which is not as sharp as some of its competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Onix 1.4 Automatic typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, fog lights, a more advanced audio system with a touchscreen display, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. Safety features included dual front airbags and ABS brakes.
Chassis & Braking
The Onix utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of comfort and handling for a vehicle in its class. The front brakes are disc brakes, while the rear brakes are drum brakes. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The steering is hydraulic power steering, offering a light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Onix 1.4 Automatic was well-received in the Brazilian market, praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and the convenience of the automatic transmission. Critics noted that the engine was somewhat underpowered, especially when running on gasoline, but acknowledged that it was adequate for its intended purpose. Compared to the 1.0-liter versions, the 1.4 offered a noticeable improvement in performance. Compared to the 1.0 Turbo, the 1.4 Automatic offered less power but was generally more affordable. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the Onix 1.4 Automatic achieving around 30-35 mpg on gasoline and slightly less on ethanol.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Onix 1.4 Automatic proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The SPE/4 ECO engine is known for its robustness, and the six-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be relatively trouble-free. In the used car market, the Onix 1.4 Automatic remains a popular choice, offering a good value for money. Its affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. While newer generations of the Onix have been introduced, the first-generation model, particularly the 1.4 Automatic variant, holds a significant place in the history of Chevrolet in Latin America.
