General Motors has introduced the updated 2027 Chevrolet Onix lineup for the Brazilian market. These changes aim to strengthen the subcompact car’s position in the competitive battle against models such as the VW Polo and Fiat Argo. It is worth noting that this is the second generation of the model, which debuted in 2019 and received an update only last year. The main news was the return of the crossover version Onix Activ, which is now the entry-level model in Chevrolet’s lineup of raised vehicles.
Return of the Chevrolet Onix Activ
The Activ model occupies a niche between the regular Onix and the new Sonic crossover-coupe, which appeared on the market earlier this year. Unlike the original Onix Activ from 2016, the new version has abandoned the plastic body cladding that usually signals off-road readiness. Instead, the car received functional roof rails, 16-inch black alloy wheels, crystal lens rear lights, and dark Chevrolet emblems.
According to the company, the engineering team in Brazil spent over a year developing the Onix Activ, implementing “functional changes that go far beyond aesthetics.”
Technical features and specifications
The real highlight is the unique suspension, which increases ground clearance to 201 mm (7.9 inches). This matches or even surpasses the figures of some popular SUVs, such as the Ford Explorer (7.6 inches on standard trims) and Hyundai Palisade (7.4 inches). Additionally, the approach and departure angles have been improved to 19.7° and 28.1° respectively, and the overall vehicle height has increased by 60 mm (2.3 inches) compared to the standard Onix.
Inside, the cabin features combined upholstery of eco-leather and fabric, Activ embroidery on the integrated headrests, and a dark Chevrolet logo on the steering wheel. Equipment includes an 8-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11-inch infotainment display, introduced as part of the recent facelift, as well as built-in Wi-Fi, manual air conditioning, and six airbags. Under the hood, there is a familiar turbocharged 1.0-liter engine producing 115 hp, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Other versions in the lineup
In addition to the crossover version, the 2027 lineup introduces the Onix Eco trim for the hatchback and sedan. This version runs exclusively on ethanol thanks to the software calibration of the 1.0-liter engine. According to Chevrolet, the plant-based fuel reduces carbon emissions by approximately 70%, allowing the Onix Eco to qualify for federal green tax incentives.
Another interesting version is the Onix Log, which transforms the small hatchback into a city cargo vehicle. The rear row of seats is removed in favor of a special cargo compartment capable of carrying up to 375 kg (827 lbs) of load, and the rear windows can optionally be covered with tinted film. The Log model is equipped with a Flex atmospheric engine that runs on both gasoline and ethanol.
Updates for the entire Onix family
The rest of the 2027 Onix and Onix Plus family models received minor updates. Chevrolet claims that the aerodynamics, suspension, engine, and climate control systems have been improved thanks to “intensive use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and supercomputer modeling.” Besides a more efficient air conditioner, the hatchbacks received clear lens rear lights with LED technology on the Activ, RS, and Premier trims, and the rearview camera is now standard for more trims.
Prices start from 102,890 Brazilian reals (approximately $20,300 USD) for the base 2027 Chevrolet Onix hatchback with an atmospheric engine and manual transmission. At the other end of the lineup is the Onix Plus Premier Turbo AT sedan, priced from 125,290 reals (approximately $24,700 USD).
The moderately off-road Onix Activ version enters the market with a special price of 114,990 reals (approximately $22,700 USD). Those looking for a sportier appearance can choose the Onix RS Turbo with more aggressive body cladding, priced from 121,190 reals (approximately $23,900 USD).
The update of the Chevrolet Onix for the Brazilian market demonstrates an interesting strategy from General Motors: instead of a complete generation change, the company decided to diversify the lineup as much as possible, creating niche versions for different customer needs. The return of the Activ with an emphasis on increased ground clearance, rather than plastic bodywork, indicates a desire to offer real functionality, not just style. At the same time, the appearance of the Log version points to an attempt to meet the needs of small businesses for compact and economical cargo transport. This approach allows extending the life cycle of a model that debuted back in 2019 without significant investment in developing an entirely new car, which is particularly relevant in developing markets.