Is the 2012 Chevy Cruze FWD or RWD?
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is front-wheel drive (FWD). It does not offer rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) variants in the North American market. The drivetrain uses a transverse engine with power directed to the front wheels.
Drivetrain overview
Understanding the Cruze's drivetrain helps explain its handling, efficiency, and maintenance profile. The 2012 model year Cruze uses a front-driven layout common to compact cars, prioritizing fuel economy and interior packaging for sedan and hatchback configurations.
Key drivetrain characteristics of the 2012 Cruze:
- Drivetrain: front-wheel drive (FWD) with a transverse engine layout
- Transmission options: typically a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic, depending on trim and market
- All-wheel drive (AWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD): not offered on the 2012 Cruze in the U.S. market
In summary, the Cruze's drivetrain is FWD with standard manual or automatic transmissions, and there is no factory AWD/RWD option for the 2012 model in North America.
Engine options and transmission choices
The 2012 Cruze offered a couple of mainstream gasoline engines paired with front-wheel drive. Engine and transmission combinations varied by trim and market, but the layout remained front-wheel drive across the lineup.
Engine and transmission options include:
- 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 engine paired with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission
- 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with available 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission
Whichever engine was chosen, power was delivered to the front wheels via the front-wheel-drive layout.
Market availability and drive layout
Across major markets where the Cruze was sold, the 2012 model year features front-wheel drive as the standard drivetrain. GM did not offer an official all-wheel-drive variant for the U.S. Cruze lineup in 2012.
Summary
For the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, the answer is straightforward: it is front-wheel drive (FWD) only. There was no factory rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive option in the U.S. market, and the car used a transverse engine with power directed to the front wheels. Engine choices included a 1.8L naturally aspirated engine or a 1.4L turbo, both paired with either a manual or automatic transmission, all in a front-drive configuration. This layout supports the Cruze's efficiency-oriented design and compact-car packaging.
Are Chevy Cruze FWD or RWD?
FWD
Engine & Transmission
| Engine Type | VCDi Diesel Engine |
|---|---|
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Gearbox | 6 Speed |
| Drive Type | FWD |
| Report Incorrect Specs |
What year to stay away from Chevy Cruze?
The Chevy Cruze years to avoid are primarily 2011-2015, with particular issues noted for the 2013 and 2016 model years, due to common problems like transmission failure, coolant leaks, and engine issues. The 2016 model is also mentioned for engine problems, while the 2018 year is frequently cited for engine and electrical problems.
This video discusses the most common problems with the Chevy Cruze: 58sSteeveGMTECHYouTube · Jul 22, 2025
Years with most reported problems
- 2011–2015: This first generation is widely cited as having the most issues, including transmission failure, coolant leaks, and engine problems like cracked pistons and faulty water pumps.
- 2016: This year is specifically called out for engine issues, potentially related to the 1.4T engine.
- 2018: Many owners have reported engine and electrical problems with this model year, along with a specific recall for transmission fluid leaks.
Specific issues to look out for
- Engine: Common problems include cracked pistons, faulty water pumps, and coolant leaks, particularly on 1.4T engines.
- Transmission: Harsh shifting and complete transmission failure are frequent complaints across several model years.
- Cooling System: Leaks from plastic cooling components, especially around the 100,000-mile mark, can lead to overheating and engine damage.
- Electrical: Electrical system failures, including issues with the ignition, lighting, and control modules, were common in several years.
You can watch this video to learn about common Chevy Cruze problems and fixes: 59sAJS WoodworksYouTube · May 22, 2024
How to mitigate risks
- Check the vehicle history: Always get a vehicle history report and verify that all recall work has been completed.
- Perform a pre-purchase inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before buying to identify any existing or potential problems.
- Be aware of mileage: Many of the common failures, such as water pump failure, occur at higher mileage (around 100,000 miles).
Is the 2013 Chevy Cruze FWD or RWD?
front wheel drive
Overview
| Combined MPG | 27 MPG |
|---|---|
| Drive Type | front wheel drive |
| Total Seating | 5 |
| Cargo Capacity | 15.0 cu.ft. |
| Curb Weight | 3,082 lbs. |
Is a 2012 Chevy Cruze rear wheel drive?
Underpinned by the front-wheel drive GM Delta II platform, GM has confirmed the Cruze development program occurred under a global design and engineering team. GM Daewoo in South Korea played a leading role in the design and engineering of the Cruze, along with GM's German-based Opel division.
