The Chevrolet Onix II 1.0T (116 hp) Ethanol Automatic is a front-wheel-drive, five-door hatchback produced by Chevrolet from 2019 to 2025. It represents a significant iteration of the Onix, a popular subcompact car primarily aimed at the South American market, particularly Brazil. This specific variant, powered by a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied a key position in the Onix II lineup, offering a balance of fuel efficiency, affordability, and modern features. It was designed to appeal to urban drivers seeking a practical and economical vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Onix |
| Generation | Onix II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0T (116 Hp) Ethanol Automatic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 150.2 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) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 165 Nm @ 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 | 1065 kg (2347.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1440 kg (3174.66 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 | 6 gears, automatic 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 Automatic is the GM-developed B06 three-cylinder engine. This engine utilizes a single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine employs multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 1.0T engine is notable for its aluminum block and head, contributing to weight reduction. When running on ethanol (E85), the engine management system adjusts parameters to take advantage of the fuel’s higher octane rating, resulting in a slight power increase. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from a variety of suppliers depending on the production year, is designed for smooth shifting and optimized fuel economy. It features electronically controlled shift points and adaptive learning capabilities.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0T Automatic Onix delivers adequate performance for daily commuting and urban driving. While not a sports car, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in acceleration, particularly in the mid-range. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning shifts are generally smooth but not particularly aggressive. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic offers greater convenience but slightly reduced fuel economy and a less engaging driving experience. Higher trim levels with more powerful engines (like the 1.2L) offer significantly quicker acceleration, but at a higher price point. The gear ratios are optimized for everyday driving, with a focus on maximizing fuel efficiency at highway speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Onix II 1.0T Automatic was typically offered in LT and LTZ trim levels. The LT trim generally included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and steel wheels with wheel covers. The LTZ trim added features like alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with a touchscreen display, a rearview camera, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and automatic climate control. Safety features such as dual front airbags and ABS were standard across all trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Onix II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality suitable for Brazilian road conditions. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The steering is a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing ride quality over sharp cornering. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Onix II 1.0T Automatic was well-received in the Brazilian market as a practical and affordable option. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and modern features. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to competitors like the Fiat Argo and Hyundai HB20, the Onix offered a competitive combination of price, features, and fuel economy. The automatic transmission was a popular choice for buyers seeking convenience, despite a slight fuel economy penalty compared to the manual version.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Onix II, including the 1.0T Automatic variant, has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The B06 engine, while small, has demonstrated good long-term reliability when properly maintained. In the used car market, the Onix II 1.0T Automatic remains a popular choice due to its affordability, fuel efficiency, and relatively low maintenance costs. Common issues reported by owners include occasional turbocharger lag and minor electrical glitches, but these are generally not major concerns. The Onix II helped solidify Chevrolet’s position as a leading brand in the South American automotive market.
