The Chevrolet Onix II, specifically the 1.0T variant introduced with the 2025 facelift, represents a significant offering in the South American subcompact hatchback market. Production began in July 2025, and this model is primarily targeted towards consumers in Brazil and other Latin American countries. Positioned as a mid-range option within the Onix II lineup, the 1.0T offers a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and affordability. It builds upon the foundation of the first-generation Onix, which was a sales leader in Brazil, and aims to continue that success with updated styling, technology, and a focus on flex-fuel capability – running on both gasoline and ethanol.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Onix |
| Generation | Onix II (facelift 2025) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0T (115 Hp) Ethanol |
| Start of production | July, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (Ethanol – E100) | 10.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (Ethanol – E100) | 8.1 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 105 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (Ethanol – E100) | 98 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E100 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 108 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 150.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4500 rpm) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E100) | 165 Nm @ 2000-4500 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 | 1065-1075 kg (2347.92 – 2369.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1440-1450 kg (3174.66 – 3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 303 l (10.7 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1151 l (40.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 44 l (11.62 US gal, 9.68 UK gal) |
| Length | 4169 mm (164.13 in.) |
| Width | 1746 mm (68.74 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2044 mm (80.47 in.) |
| Height | 1473 mm (57.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2551 mm (100.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1504 mm (59.21 in.) |
| Front overhang | 888 mm (34.96 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 730 mm (28.74 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 157 mm (6.18 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.346 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14° |
| 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, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 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 a member of the Ecotec family. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a single scroll turbocharger with intercooling. The engine is capable of running on both gasoline and ethanol (up to 100% E100), a crucial feature for the Brazilian market where ethanol is widely available and often more affordable than gasoline. The engine code is not publicly specified by Chevrolet, but it is a further development of the earlier 1.0L turbo found in other GM South American models. The 6-speed manual transmission is standard, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. The engine’s DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain and a compression ratio of 10.5:1 contribute to its efficiency and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0T powertrain delivers a respectable 115 horsepower and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. While not a performance-oriented variant, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 9.4 seconds. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, particularly in the mid-range, making overtaking maneuvers relatively easy. The 6-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering precise shifts and allowing the driver to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the base 1.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, the 1.0T offers a significant improvement in performance. However, it doesn’t match the responsiveness of higher-spec Onix models equipped with more powerful engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0T trim typically includes features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher sub-trims within the 1.0T range add features like a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and alloy wheels. Safety features generally include dual front airbags and ABS brakes. Optional extras often include parking sensors, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, with a focus on durability and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Onix II utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a McPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for the often-challenging road conditions in Brazil. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing ride quality over cornering performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Onix II 1.0T has been well-received in the Brazilian market, praised for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and flex-fuel capability. Critics have noted that the engine provides a good balance of performance and economy, making it a practical choice for urban commuters. Compared to other subcompact hatchbacks in Brazil, such as the Fiat Argo and Hyundai HB20, the Onix II 1.0T offers a competitive package in terms of features, price, and fuel economy. The manual transmission is favored by many buyers in this segment, offering a more engaging driving experience than an automatic.
Legacy
The 1.0T engine, and the Onix II platform as a whole, represents a significant step forward for Chevrolet in the South American market. The engine’s flex-fuel capability and relatively modern technology make it a compelling option for consumers. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the GM Ecotec engine family has a generally good reputation for durability. The Onix II 1.0T is expected to remain a popular choice in the used car market for years to come, offering a practical and affordable transportation solution.
