Activ variant had significant changes in suspensions, tires and external components; manufacturer aims at Brazilians' interest in versatility
Chevrolet has confirmed the arrival of the new Onix Activ for 2026, marking the return of a taller and more adventurous variant that was discontinued along with the last generation in 2019. The new Activ undergoes structural changes and dynamic adjustment to reinforce its SUV-style model proposal, betting on raised suspension, greater ground clearance and a more robust look.
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According to the brand, the update is part of Chevrolet’s strategy to expand its offer of SUVs and crossovers in Brazil. The idea is to position the Onix Activ as an entry-level alternative for consumers looking for typical SUV characteristics, such as a higher driving position and greater versatility for urban use.
The new Onix Activ maintains compact dimensions, with 4,163 mm in length, but adopts a higher configuration. The total height reaches 1,533 mm, an increase of 61 mm compared to the other versions of the line. The ground clearance also grows and reaches 201 mm. With this, the model improves its attack and departure angles, which are now 19.7° and 28.1°, respectively.
To achieve this result, General Motors engineering in Brazil made deeper changes to the suspension and running assembly. The model received new spring and shock absorber adjustments, as well as specific tires, in a development that took about a year.
Chevrolet says that the proposal is to offer a more comfortable drive on uneven roads and urban obstacles, such as speed bumps and ramps, in addition to increasing the feeling of control behind the wheel. The equipment package also includes automatic transmission and native Wi-Fi as standard. According to the manufacturer, average consumption can reach 14.6 km/l of gasoline on highways, according to Inmetro measurements.
Visually, the version features exclusive elements, such as the brand’s tie with a darkened finish, mirrors and grille with differentiated treatment, wheels of its own design and functional roof rack. The model also debuts taillights with crystal lens and new finishing details to reinforce the more robust visual identity.
In addition to the new Activ variant, the 2026 Onix line had already received important updates. The main one involved the engine’s oil-bathed timing belt, a component that had become the target of criticism from owners in recent years.
For the new line, Chevrolet adopted a belt reinforced with kevlar — a material known for its resistance and even used in ballistic vests. The new component is also supplied by another manufacturer and promises greater resistance if an inappropriate engine oil is used. Even so, the brand maintains the recommendation of the specific lubricant indicated in the manual.
The mechanical assembly has also undergone adjustments. The aspirated 1.0-liter engine had a slight increase in power with gasoline, delivering 80 hp, while torque rose to 10,2 kgfm with the same fuel. The 1.0 turbo engine has undergone recalibration and now yields 115 hp regardless of fuel, with torque of up to 16,8 kgfm with ethanol.
Even with the turbo’s power reduction compared to the previous update, performance remains competitive. The naturally aspirated versions accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in about 12.9 seconds, while the turbo versions can complete the same test in less than 11 seconds, depending on the type of transmission.
Another important change involves the design of the front bumper, which has been redesigned and positioned higher. The change seeks to reduce scrapes on speed bumps, ditches and ramps — one of the recurring criticisms made by owners of the model.
The compact has also undergone visual and technological updates. The lighting set was redesigned and now has LED headlights from the LT version. Inside, the model received a new panel that integrates the instrument panel and multimedia center in a single frame, following the style adopted by recent launches of the brand.
Among the equipment, the 8-inch digital panel and the MyLink multimedia center with a screen of up to 11 inches, both with wireless smartphone mirroring, stand out. The 2026 Onix line is now available at dealerships with a five-year warranty.
