Is a Chevy Cruze a 2 or 4 wheel drive?
The Chevy Cruze is front-wheel drive (FWD) and was never offered with all-wheel drive (AWD) in U.S.-market models.
For readers evaluating the Cruze or comparing it to AWD rivals, note that all Cruzes sold in North America were front-wheel drive across its production span from 2011 to 2019. GM designed the model for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, and the Cruze was discontinued after the 2019 model year.
Drivetrain reality for the Cruze
Understanding the Cruze's drivetrain helps set expectations for performance, fuel economy, and maintenance. The Cruze uses a transverse engine with front-wheel drive, paired with a choice of transmissions (including a 5- or 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic) depending on year and trim. There was never a factory AWD option offered in North America; any AWD claims for used Cruzes are typically aftermarket modifications or mislabeling.
Before listing the timeline, here is a quick overview of drivetrain availability by generation and market to illustrate the lack of AWD for the Cruze.
- First generation (2011–2016): Front-wheel drive only; transmissions included 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
- Second generation facelift (2017–2019): Front-wheel drive only; transmissions included 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
- Market note: Across these years, there was no factory all-wheel-drive Cruze offered in the United States or Canada; the model was discontinued after the 2019 model year.
In practice, buyers who need all-wheel traction typically consider other GM options such as the Chevrolet Equinox or Trax, which offer AWD on certain trims. The Cruze prioritized efficiency, affordability, and front-drive practicality.
What to check when evaluating a used Cruze
Because there are no OEM AWD Cruze models, checks focus on the front-wheel-drive drivetrain, transmission health, and overall maintenance history. Look for documented maintenance such as regular oil changes, transmission fluid service (if applicable to the year), and inspection of CV joints and axles. If a seller claims AWD, verify with the vehicle’s VIN or window sticker, as that would indicate aftermarket modification.
Summary
The Chevy Cruze is a front-wheel-drive vehicle with no factory all-wheel-drive option offered in its U.S. market history (2011–2019). If AWD is a priority, consider other models such as GM crossovers or SUVs; always verify the drivetrain on a specific used Cruze with the VIN or window sticker.
Does the Chevrolet Cruze have 4 wheel drive?
The car is finally all-wheel. Drive introducing the world's first all-wheel drive Chevrolet Cruise with 525 wheel horsepower.
Is a Chevy Cruze 2 wheel drive?
The production Cruze had standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive optional. Chevrolet pursued a marketing strategy that positioned the high-riding Cruze as a light-duty sport utility vehicle (SUV). This contrasted with Suzuki's approach with the Ignis marketed as a conventional passenger model.
Is the Chevy Cruze FWD or RWD?
The Chevy Cruze is a front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicle, not rear-wheel drive (RWD). All models of the Chevy Cruze are FWD, with a front-engine layout.
- Drive Type: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on all models.
- Engine Layout: The layout is front-engine, front-wheel drive.
Is the 2014 Chevy Cruze 2WD or 4WD?
Optional Features
| Drive Wheels | Front Wheel Drive (2WD) |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Turbo Gas |
| Fuel capacity | 15.6 |
| Wheelbase | 105.7" |
| Overall length | 181" |
