Is the 2016 Chevy Impala FWD or RWD?
The 2016 Chevrolet Impala is front-wheel drive (FWD).
As a full-size sedan from General Motors, the Impala uses a transversely mounted engine that powers the front wheels, a setup chosen for efficiency and predictable handling in everyday driving. There is no rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive option for this model year.
Drivetrain configuration
Understanding the Impala's drivetrain helps explain its performance, fuel economy and everyday usability.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD).
- All-wheel drive (AWD): Not available for the 2016 model year.
- Engine options: 2.5-liter four-cylinder or 3.6-liter V6, both paired with a GM automatic transmission.
- Layout: Transverse engine layout powering the front wheels.
In practice, this FWD configuration prioritizes interior space and efficiency, with the powertrain tuned for comfortable highway cruising rather than sporty handling.
What this means for performance
With FWD, the Impala delivers steady traction in normal conditions and smoother packaging for the large sedan. A V6 option improves acceleration, but the drivetrain remains front-driven, affecting weight distribution and cornering feel compared with rear-wheel drive counterparts.
Summary
The 2016 Chevy Impala is FWD across all trims, with no AWD option. It uses a transverse engine layout and a GM 6-speed automatic transmission, offering a balance of interior space, comfort, and highway efficiency typical of front-wheel-drive full-size sedans.
