100 years of Chevrolet in Brazil: The iconic cars

In this January 26, 2025, The Chevrolet celebrates a historic milestone: 100 years of operation in Brazil. It all started in a small warehouse in the Ipiranga neighborhood of São Paulo, where pickup trucks and vans were assembled from imported kits. Today, Chevrolet is synonymous with innovation, robustness and tradition, with factories spread across the country and thousands of employees.

In this article, you will remember the most iconic cars of the brand, which marked generations and shaped the Brazilian automotive market. From classic pickup trucks to modern hatchbacks, this is a nostalgic journey full of history.

Chevrolet 3100 (1947-1964): The forerunner of pickup trucks in Brazil

A Chevrolet 3100, known as “Boca de Sapo” due to the design of the front grille, is one of GM's first landmarks in Brazil. Initially assembled from CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits, the pickup began to be manufactured locally in 1958.

• Popularity: Loved by farmers and business owners alike, the 3100 cemented Chevrolet as a leader in the utility vehicle segment.
• Curiosity: In 2005, a 1960 specimen traveled 16 thousand km from Manaus to Detroit, where it is now on display at the GM museum.

Chevrolet C10 (1964-1984): The evolution of pickup trucks

Replacing the 3100, the C10 brought more robustness and versatility. Produced for two decades, it was one of the main options for work in the countryside and in the city.

• Impact: In addition to its success as a pickup truck, it gave rise to the SUV Summer, a precursor of the current Trailblazer.
• Innovation: It was one of the first Chevrolet pickups in Brazil to offer versions with 4×4 traction, which made it even more versatile.

Chevrolet Opala (1968-1992): The boss's car

O Opal was the first Chevrolet passenger car manufactured in Brazil. Presented in 1968, became an icon of luxury and power.

• Versatility: The Opala had several configurations: sedan, sports coupe and station wagon (Caravan).
• Legacy: To this day, it is remembered as a symbol of status and performance. Models such as the SS 1978 and Diplomat 1992 are revered among collectors.

Chevrolet Chevette (1973-1994): The popular darling

O Chevette was created to serve the public looking for a compact, affordable and economical car. For 21 years, Chevrolet produced more than 1.6 million units in Brazil.

• Emphasis: It was Chevrolet's first compact car in the country, winning hearts with its simplicity and efficiency.
• Curiosity: To this day, it is one of the most remembered cars by those who lived through the 70s and 80s.

Chevrolet Monza (1982-1996): The darling of the 80s

O Monza was a turning point. It brought innovations such as more efficient engines, modern design and a list of equipment that made it one of the most sophisticated cars of its time.

• Awards: Elected the Car of the Year by Autoesporte on three occasions (1982, 1986 and 1987).
• Popularity: It became a benchmark for quality and comfort, shaping the Brazilian consumer's desire for mid-size sedans.

Chevrolet D20 (1985-1996): Unparalleled robustness

The line D20 consolidated Chevrolet's tradition in the robust pickup truck segment. With diesel and gasoline engines, it was perfect for those who needed strength and durability.

• Origin of SUVs: It gave rise to SUVs Bonanza It is Summer, both derived from D20.
• Target audience: Farmers and transporters were the main users of this successful line.

Chevrolet Corsa (1994-2012): The hatch that revolutionized

In the 90s, Chevrolet surprised the market with the launch of the Race, which brought a rounded and modern design. It quickly became one of the best-selling hatchbacks in Brazil.

• Production: It had two generations, being replaced by the Onix in 2012.
• Affordable price: It was competitive in the market, catering to both young drivers and small families.

Chevrolet S10 (1995-present): The quintessential Brazilian pickup truck

A S10 is one of Chevrolet's greatest successes in Brazil. Since its debut in 1995, it has sold more than 750 thousand units in the domestic market and exported others 250 thousand.

• Emphasis: It is in its third generation and is a reference in robustness, technology and comfort.
• Curiosity: Originated the Blazer, one of the most remembered SUVs of the 90s.

Chevrolet Celta (2000-2015): Simplicity that conquered

Launched as a national project, the Celtic aimed to serve the entry-level segment with efficiency and low cost. It was one of Chevrolet's most affordable cars, with prices starting at approximately R$ 12 thousand at the time of release.

• Production: They were 1.5 million units in 15 years.
• Legacy: Despite being simple, the Celta marked a generation of Brazilian drivers.

Chevrolet Onix (2012-present): The absolute leader

O Onyx It is the best-selling model in Brazil in recent years. With a modern design, connectivity and safety technologies, it continues to be the favorite of Brazilians.

• Innovation: It was the first Chevrolet car to offer on-board Wi-Fi.
• Future: A restyling is planned for 2025, promising to maintain its market leadership.

Conclusion: A century of innovation and success

A Chevrolet complete 100 years in Brazil with an impressive legacy. Since 3100, which popularized pickup trucks in the country, until the Onyx, absolute sales leader, the brand has built a history marked by innovation, robustness and a unique connection with consumers.

This trajectory shows how the Chevrolet has evolved to meet the needs of different generations, without ever losing its essence. And now, in 2025, you can expect even more innovations, with new models and technologies that promise to revolutionize the market.

Congratulations, Chevrolet! Here's to another 100 years of success in Brazil!