Is the Chevy Traverse AWD or 4WD?
The short answer: The Chevy Traverse is offered with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD); there is no traditional four-wheel-drive (4WD) option with a low-range gear.
Drivetrain options explained
The Traverse uses a front-wheel-drive platform and offers all-wheel drive as an available feature on most trims. It does not offer a manual transfer case or a low-range setting typical of classic 4WD systems. In daily driving, this arrangement prioritizes passenger comfort, cargo space, and fuel efficiency when AWD is not engaged.
Key characteristics of AWD on the Traverse:
- FWD is standard; AWD is available on most trims and adds improved traction in slippery conditions.
- There is no traditional 4WD system with a low-range gear in the Traverse lineup.
- The AWD system operates automatically, sending power to the rear wheels when traction is compromised, without driver involvement.
- AWD helps on rain-soaked roads, snow, and light off-road surfaces but is not intended for serious rock crawling or rugged off-roading.
- Fuel economy may be slightly lower with AWD compared to FWD, depending on driving conditions and model year.
Concluding: For everyday driving in variable weather, AWD provides enhanced traction without the complexity of a 4WD system. If you require true off-road capability with a low-range feature, a different vehicle would be more suitable.
What this means for buyers
When shopping for a Traverse, assess your climate, driving needs, and budget. If you want extra traction in snow, sleet, or rain, opt for AWD; if you prioritize maximum fuel efficiency and lower upfront cost, FWD may be the better choice. Remember that the AWD option is designed to assist rather than transform the Traverse into a hardcore off-roader.
Summary
The Chevrolet Traverse offers FWD as standard with an optional AWD system. It does not provide a traditional 4WD configuration. AWD is intended to improve traction in adverse weather and on slick roads, while a dedicated off-road 4WD with a low-range is not part of the Traverse lineup.
Is the Chevy Traverse AWD good in snow?
What Makes the Traverse a Top Winter Pick. Intelligent AWD System: The Traverse's AWD monitors road conditions, automatically adjusting to send power to the wheels that need it most for steady traction on slick roads.
Is the Traverse AWD or 4WD?
The 2024 model is available in four trim levels: LS, LT, Z71, and RS . Front-wheel drive (FWD) comes standard on the LS, LT, and RS trims, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an optional upgrade .
Is AWD the same as 4WD?
No, AWD (all-wheel drive) and 4WD (four-wheel drive) are not the same, although both send power to all four wheels. The main differences are that AWD automatically adjusts power distribution for on-road conditions, while 4WD is typically a part-time system that the driver must manually engage for more extreme off-road situations.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Automatic: Works automatically without driver input.
- On-road focused: Designed to improve traction and handling on paved roads in various conditions, like rain, snow, or ice.
- Varies power: Can automatically and continuously vary the power sent to each wheel.
- Continuously engaged: Typically engaged all the time.
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
- Manual engagement: The driver must manually switch it on for when extra traction is needed.
- Off-road focused: Built for more severe conditions and rugged terrain, such as deep snow, mud, and rocks.
- Fixed power: Sends a fixed amount of power to all four wheels once engaged, which is ideal for maximum traction and control in off-road situations.
- Part-time or selectable: Can be switched between 4WD and 2WD (two-wheel drive), often with different settings like low and high ranges for different conditions.
Which Chevy SUV is AWD?
Chevrolet offers many SUVs with all-wheel drive (AWD), including models like the Trax, Trailblazer, Equinox, Blazer, Traverse, Tahoe, and Suburban, where AWD is often an available option rather than standard on all trims. The electric Equinox EV and Blazer EV also offer AWD.
You can watch this video to learn more about the features of the Chevy Blazer: 1:57Team Chevrolet of SwansboroFacebook · Jul 26, 2025
Examples of Chevrolet AWD SUVs
- Chevy Trax: Compact SUV available with AWD.
- Chevy Trailblazer: Compact SUV with optional AWD.
- Chevy Equinox: Mid-size SUV that offers available AWD across all trims.
- Chevy Blazer: Mid-size SUV with optional AWD, including a performance-oriented V6 option on some trims.
- Chevy Traverse: A larger, three-row SUV that comes with optional AWD.
- Chevy Tahoe: A full-size, three-row SUV that offers an available AWD system.
- Chevy Suburban: Chevrolet's largest SUV, available with optional AWD.
- Chevy Equinox EV and Blazer EV: Electric SUVs that offer AWD as an option.
