Is the Chevy SS AWD or RWD?
The Chevy SS is rear-wheel drive (RWD). It is not an all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle.
The Chevrolet SS was a limited-production, V8-powered sedan sold in the United States from 2014 through 2017. It was developed from the Holden Commodore VF and uses a dedicated rear-drive chassis, emphasizing traditional RWD handling dynamics rather than AWD traction systems.
Drivetrain Snapshot
Here are quick facts about the drivetrain layout and related characteristics of the Chevy SS.
- Drivetrain layout: rear-wheel drive (RWD) architecture.
- Powertrain: typically a 6.2-liter V8 delivering substantial power and torque for performance driving.
- Platform origin: based on the Holden Commodore VF's rear-drive platform.
- Traction system: traditional RWD traction with electronic aids; no all-wheel-drive system.
- Market availability: sold in the United States as a dedicated model; not offered with AWD.
In summary, the Chevy SS relies on a classic rear-wheel-drive layout with a powerful V8 and performance-oriented tuning, not an all-wheel-drive setup.
Why RWD Works for the Chevy SS
Why the car favors rear-wheel drive is tied to its design goals and heritage. Here are the main reasons.
- Handling and balance: RWD provides predictable handling characteristics ideal for performance driving and cornering feel.
- Weight distribution: a front-engine, rear-drive setup helps balance weight between axles for dynamic response.
- Heritage and engineering: the SS is based on the Holden VF Commodore RWD platform, aligning with classic performance sedan DNA.
- Market positioning: Chevy pitched the SS as a purpose-built, engaging four-door for enthusiasts rather than an all-weather family car; AWD would have altered its dynamics and added cost.
Ultimately, Chevrolet chose RWD to preserve the driving dynamics associated with traditional V8-powered sedans, which remains a hallmark of the SS's appeal.
Model Context and Timeline
Additional context about the model's production and scope helps frame its drivetrain characteristics.
Key facts
The Chevrolet SS was produced from 2014 to 2017 in the United States and was marketed as a performance sedan with a 6.2L V8. It was built on a modified version of the Holden VF Commodore platform and did not adopt AWD during its US market run. Production ended with the 2017 model year, after which Chevrolet discontinued the SS lineup.
These details reinforce that AWD was not part of the Chevrolet SS's specification envelope, and the car remains a notable example of a modern rear-wheel-drive V8 sedan in the GM lineup.
Summary
The Chevy SS is a rear-wheel-drive performance sedan. Rooted in Holden's VF Commodore heritage, it prioritizes traditional RWD dynamics over any all-wheel-drive configuration, delivering a V8-powered driving experience centered on handling, balance, and driver involvement. Production was limited to 2014–2017 in the United States, after which Chevrolet discontinued the model.
Why are Chevy SS so rare?
Chevy SS sedans are rare because they were only produced for a short four-year run (2014–2017) with low production numbers, partly due to a lack of marketing and poor sales figures that were only about 3,000 per year. The car was imported from Australia as a Holden Commodore and its production was ultimately limited by the closure of the Holden plant, according to Quora.
You can watch this video to learn more about the Chevy SS's design and why it was considered a sleeper sedan: 31sAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Jul 2, 2025
- Limited production: The car was only produced for four model years, ending after 2017, which inherently limits the total number of vehicles available.
- Low sales and poor marketing: Despite being a high-performance sedan with a V8 engine, sales were lackluster, partly because Chevrolet did not heavily market the car.
- Imported from Australia: The Chevy SS was an imported Holden Commodore, and its production run was tied to the Australian Holden plant, which GM later shuttered.
- Short lifespan: The vehicle was essentially a stop-gap model to honor a prior deal to import sedans from Holden after the Pontiac G8 was canceled, and there was no plan for a long-term replacement.
Is the Chevy SS AWD?
No, the Chevrolet SS is not AWD; it is exclusively a rear-wheel drive performance sedan. All models were built on a rear-wheel-drive platform, and all-wheel drive was never an option.
You can watch this video to see the Chevrolet SS in action and hear about its features: 56sRaiti's RidesYouTube · Oct 17, 2025
- The Chevy SS was Chevrolet's first rear-wheel-drive V8 sedan since 1996.
- It was developed using the Holden Commodore's Zeta platform, which is a rear-wheel-drive chassis.
- All 2014-2017 model years of the Chevrolet SS came with rear-wheel drive.
What Chevy has AWD?
Chevrolet offers all-wheel drive (AWD) on a variety of SUVs and trucks, including the Blazer, Equinox, Traverse, and Trailblazer. Other vehicles like the Tahoe, Suburban, and Silverado are also available with AWD or 4WD systems, which provide enhanced traction for various road conditions. The availability of AWD depends on the model and specific trim level.
This video demonstrates the all-wheel drive capabilities of the Chevrolet Blazer and Equinox: 49sFirst State ChevroletYouTube · Jul 21, 2020
Examples of Chevy AWD vehicles
- Blazer: Available with AWD in both gas and electric (Blazer EV) models.
- Equinox: Offers AWD, typically as an option on higher trim levels.
- Traverse: A larger SUV that is available with an AWD system.
- Trailblazer: A smaller SUV that has an available AWD system.
- Tahoe and Suburban: These large SUVs are available with AWD or 4WD.
- Silverado: This truck is available with AWD or 4WD.
Is the 2017 Chevy SS RWD?
2017 Chevrolet SS models
The SS is rear-wheel-drive only.
