The Chevrolet Onix II 1.0T (116 hp) represents a significant entry point into the second generation of Chevrolet’s popular Onix hatchback, produced from 2019 to 2025. Designed primarily for the South American market, particularly Brazil, the Onix II aimed to offer a modern, fuel-efficient, and technologically equipped subcompact car. This 1.0T variant, equipped with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission, served as a core model within the Onix II lineup, balancing affordability with a reasonable level of performance and features. It competed directly with other subcompact hatchbacks like the Fiat Argo, Volkswagen Polo, and Hyundai HB20.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Onix |
| Generation | Onix II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0T (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 148.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 2000 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.49 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1075 kg (2369.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 303 l (10.7 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 44 l (11.62 US gal | 9.68 UK gal) |
| Length | 4163 mm (163.9 in.) |
| Width | 1731 mm (68.15 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2044 mm (80.47 in.) |
| Height | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2551 mm (100.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Front overhang | 882 mm (34.72 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 730 mm (28.74 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 128 mm (5.04 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14; 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14; 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Onix II 1.0T is the GM-developed three-cylinder 1.0-liter turbocharged engine, designated as the B06. This engine is a key component of General Motors’ small displacement engine family. It features a single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler, multi-point fuel injection, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s design prioritizes efficiency and responsiveness, utilizing technologies like direct injection and variable valve timing to optimize performance across the rev range. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a direct and engaging driving experience. While an automatic transmission was available on higher trim levels, the manual was favored for its fuel economy and lower cost.
Driving Characteristics
The 116 hp output of the 1.0T engine, coupled with the five-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for urban driving and highway cruising. Acceleration is not particularly brisk, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 10-11 seconds. However, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power at lower to mid-range RPMs, making overtaking maneuvers manageable. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall fifth gear for highway driving. Compared to the higher-output 1.2L engine offered in some Onix II trims, the 1.0T feels less powerful, but it offers a more economical driving experience. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control and engagement, unlike the smoother but less responsive automatic options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Onix II 1.0T typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features, even in its base trim. These included air conditioning, power steering, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking, depending on the specific market and trim level.
Chassis & Braking
The Onix II utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for the often-rough road conditions prevalent in South America. The front brakes are disc brakes, while the rear brakes are drum brakes – a cost-saving measure common in this segment. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The chassis is designed to balance handling with ride comfort, offering predictable steering and reasonable body control. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Onix II 1.0T was generally well-received by automotive critics in South America. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, modern design, and relatively spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the 1.0T engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the more expensive 1.2L variants, the 1.0T offered a more affordable entry point into the Onix II range, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy was a key selling point, consistently achieving around 35-40 mpg in real-world driving conditions. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the 1.0T engine proving to be relatively robust.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Onix II 1.0T has established itself as a reliable and economical subcompact hatchback in the South American market. The 1.0T engine, while not the most powerful option, has proven to be durable and relatively easy to maintain. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition, offering a modern and well-equipped vehicle at an affordable price. The Onix II, in general, has been a sales success for Chevrolet, and the 1.0T variant played a crucial role in its popularity, appealing to a broad range of buyers seeking a practical and efficient daily driver.
