Does a 2016 Chevy Traverse have 4 wheel drive?
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse does not use a traditional four-wheel-drive (4WD) system with a low-range transfer case. It is available with front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard, and all-wheel drive (AWD) as an optional configuration. In everyday terms, you’d look for AWD rather than 4WD when shopping for this model.
In practice, AWD on the Traverse is an on-demand system designed to improve traction in rain, snow, and slick conditions. It is not the same as a part-time or full-time 4WD setup found in some trucks and body-on-frame SUVs. This nuance matters for owners who expect a rugged off-road capability; the Traverse is a family crossover optimized for highway comfort with enhanced traction when needed.
Drivetrain options for the 2016 Traverse
The following outlines the two drivetrain configurations you could find in a 2016 Traverse.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Standard on most trims; powers only the front wheels, typically delivering better fuel economy and simpler maintenance.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Optional on most trims; uses an on-demand system to send power to the rear wheels as needed for traction, improving handling in adverse conditions. It is not a traditional low-range 4WD system.
In short, if you want four wheels driving for off-road duty, the Traverse’s AWD provides traction enhancement but does not offer a true 4WD low-range transfer case.
How to verify AWD on a specific vehicle
If you’re shopping a used 2016 Traverse, use these checks to confirm whether the car has AWD.
- Check the Monroney (window) sticker for “AWD” or “All-Wheel Drive” notation.
- Look for an AWD badge on the rear of the vehicle, which is a common indicator.
- Use the vehicle’s VIN to pull the original equipment list from Chevrolet/GM sources or via a dealer, and verify the drivetrain code indicates AWD.
- Note that some trims display an AWD option in the drive mode selector or instrument cluster; availability can vary by year, trim, and options.
When in doubt, ask the seller for the window sticker or a build sheet to confirm AWD status.
Summary
Bottom line: A 2016 Chevy Traverse can be configured with all-wheel drive, but it does not offer a traditional 4WD system with a low-range transfer case. Standard FWD is available, with AWD available as an option for enhanced traction in poor weather. Verify AWD on a specific used vehicle through the window sticker, VIN build sheet, or dealer documentation to ensure you have the drivetrain you want.
