Chevy Revamped Its Most Affordable Global Models with a Digital Update and Unremarkable Designs | Carscoops

      Six years after its initial release, the Onix family finally receives significant updates

      July 10, 2025 at 15:53

      by Thanos Pappas

      The Chevrolet Onix and Onix Plus are getting a facelift for the 2026 model year in Brazil.

      The subcompact pair features a revamped bumper and slightly modified headlights.

      The interior introduces a new digital cockpit layout and an expanded set of standard features.

      Affordable vehicles are common in emerging markets, but Chevrolet has adopted a unique approach in South America and China with the Onix hatchback and Onix Plus sedan. These compact vehicles, positioned below the Trax crossover, have just undergone a mid-cycle update for the 2026 model year. The refresh offers sharper aesthetics and a tech-savvy interior, giving them a more modern appeal.

      First launched in 2019, the current Onix and Onix Plus were overdue for an upgrade, particularly as they contend with increasing competition from models like the VW Polo and Fiat Argo. The refreshed versions maintain their recognizable shape but feature a newly designed front bumper with sportier grille components and reshaped lower air intakes. The headlights are also updated, now incorporating revised internal graphics and full LED lighting in higher trims.

      Chevrolet states that the modifications are not just for looks; the new bumper facilitates easier navigation over ditches and ramps, while the LED lights are 61% brighter than before. Changes at the rear of the vehicle are more subtle, with translucent taillights and a slightly more pronounced rear diffuser on the hatchback.

      Special Editions and RS Trim

      The RS trim continues to be the sportiest variant of the Onix hatch, featuring blacked-out accents, 16-inch black alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler. Chevrolet also plans to introduce a new special edition with darker trim elements to commemorate the brand's 100th anniversary in Brazil, providing buyers with another unique visual option.

      Inside, the cabin has benefited from a significant tech upgrade. A new digital cockpit merges an 8-inch digital instrument cluster with an 11-inch infotainment display, giving the dashboard a more cohesive and modern appearance. Standard features across all trims now include six airbags, onboard Wi-Fi, and keyless entry. Higher trims offer additional features like wireless phone charging, automatic climate control, and even auto parking assist.

      Under the hood, both models continue to feature a 1.0-liter flex-fuel three-cylinder engine, available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged variations. The base version produces 80 horsepower on gasoline or 82 hp with ethanol, while the turbo model boosts those numbers to 116 and 121 hp, respectively. Power is transmitted to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

      The updated Chevrolets are already available for ordering in Brazil. Prices start at R$ 102,990 (approximately $18,500) for the hatchback and R$ 136,490 (around $24,400) for the sedan. Fully equipped turbocharged models with automatic transmissions go up to R$ 106,790 (roughly $19,100).