Is the 2016 Chevy Cruze FWD or RWD?
The 2016 Chevy Cruze is front-wheel drive (FWD). There is no rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) option in the North American Cruze lineup.
Drivetrain basics for the 2016 Cruze
The Cruze’s drivetrain is designed around front-wheel drive, a setup that underpins its efficiency and packaging. For the 2016 model year, Chevrolet did not offer an AWD or RWD configuration in the United States, so every Cruze sold there is FWD across all trims.
Market scope and options
In practice, the question of drivetrain options depends on market. In the United States and Canada, the Cruze has consistently been offered only in front-wheel-drive form. Some global markets have different option mixes, but AWD/RWD were not standard features on the 2016 Cruze in major markets.
Key drivetrain facts for the 2016 Cruze:
- Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard across all trims
- No all-wheel drive (AWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD) option in the main North American lineup
- Powertrain options typically included a 1.4L turbo gasoline engine with manual or automatic transmissions
These factors mean buyers looking for enhanced traction beyond the front wheels would need alternatives, as the Cruze lineup did not include an AWD option for 2016.
Summary
The 2016 Chevy Cruze is firmly a front-wheel-drive vehicle, with no RWD or AWD offerings in its common markets. This configuration aligns with the model’s aim of efficient, everyday driving in a compact sedan.
Is a Chevy Cruze AWD or RWD?
| Chevrolet Cruze | |
|---|---|
| Class | Compact car (C) |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel drive |
| Chronology |
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 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 2016 Chevy Cruze front or rear wheel drive?
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze is a front-wheel drive vehicle, and there is no rear-wheel drive option available for this model year. All 2016 Cruzes come standard with front-wheel drive, a design that is standard on all trim levels.
- Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) is standard on all 2016 Chevrolet Cruze models.
- Chassis: The 2016 redesign was built on a new front-drive architecture.
- Transmission: The vehicle is available with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, both of which send power to the front wheels.
