- Chevrolet has introduced 2027 model year updates for the Onix.
- The Onix Activ trim returns with an SUV-humbling ground clearance.
- An updated Onix Log joins the lineup to serve commercial buyers.
GM has rolled out another round of updates for the Brazilian-market Chevrolet Onix, keeping the subcompact competitive against the VW Polo and Fiat Argo. That comes despite the second-generation car arriving in 2019 and picking up a facelift just last year. The headline for the 2027 model year is the return of the Onix Activ crossover, which slots in as the entry point to Chevrolet’s high-riding range.
The Activ fills the space between the regular Onix and the new Sonic, a small crossover coupe that arrived earlier this year. Unlike the original 2016 Onix Activ, this version ditches the plastic body cladding that usually signals the rugged-ish treatment. In its place are functional roof rails, gloss black 16-inch alloy wheels, crystal taillight lenses, and dark Chevrolet badging.
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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.”
2027 Chevrolet Onix Activ
The real story is the unique suspension setup, which lifts ground clearance to 201 mm (7.9 inches). That matches or even beats some popular SUVs like the Ford Explorer (7.6 inches on standard trims) and the Hyundai Palisade (7.4 inches). It also improves the approach and departure angles to 19.7° and 28.1° respectively, while raising overall height by 60 mm (2.3 inches) over the standard Onix.
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Inside, there’s synthetic leather and fabric upholstery, Activ embroidery on the integrated headrests, and a dark bowtie logo on the steering wheel. Equipment includes the 8-inch digital instrument cluster and the 11-inch infotainment display introduced with the recent facelift, alongside built-in Wi-Fi, manual A/C, and six airbags.
Under the hood is the familiar turbocharged 1.0-liter engine, which is good for 115 hp. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic.
Other Variants
2027 Chevrolet Onix Eco
Aside from the crossover, the 2027 lineup introduces the Onix Eco trim for both the hatchback and sedan body styles. This one runs exclusively on ethanol, thanks to the software calibration of the 1.0-liter engine. According to Chevrolet, plant-based fuel cuts carbon emissions by roughly 70 percent, allowing the Onix Eco to qualify for federal green tax incentives.
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Another interesting variant is the Onix Log, transforming the small hatchback into an urban delivery vehicle. The rear bench has been removed in favor of a dedicated cargo area capable of hauling up to 375 kg (827 lbs) of goods, while the rear windows can be optionally covered by a blackout film. The Log is fitted with the naturally aspirated Flex engine running on both gasoline and ethanol.
2027 Chevrolet Onix Log
The rest of the 2027 Onix and Onix Plus family gets smaller upgrades. Chevrolet claims the aerodynamics, suspension, engine, and climate control systems have been improved through “intensive use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and supercomputer simulations.” Besides the more efficient A/C, the hatchbacks gain clear taillight lenses with LED tech on the Activ, RS, and Premier trims, while the rearview camera is now standard on more trims.
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Pricing starts at R$ 102,890 ($20,300) for the entry-level 2027 Chevrolet Onix hatchback with its naturally aspirated engine and manual gearbox. At the other end of the range sits the Onix Plus Premier Turbo AT sedan, priced from R$ 125,290 ($24,700).
The mildly rugged Onix Activ arrives with an introductory price of R$ 114,990 ($22,700). Those after something with a little more visual intent can opt for the Onix RS Turbo, complete with its sportier body kit, from R$ 121,190 ($23,900). The Onix Activ enters the market at a discounted R$114,990 ($22,700), while the Onix RS Turbo with the sporty bodykit costs R$ 121,190 ($23,900).
