What is the drivetrain of the 2017 Chevy Cruze?
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze uses front-wheel drive with no all-wheel-drive option; it pairs a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. A turbodiesel variant was offered in some markets but not universally across all trims.
Drivetrain overview
The Cruze of model year 2017 is built around a front-wheel-drive platform. This layout is standard across the lineup, contributing to its efficiency and predictable handling in everyday driving. Chevrolet did not offer an all-wheel-drive configuration for the Cruze in the United States that year, though some international markets did feature additional engine choices and transmissions.
Engine and transmission pairings
In the United States, the gas-powered Cruze used a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. Transmission choices included a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. In other markets, a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine was available, typically paired with similar six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. The exact pairing can vary by trim and market, so check the specific vehicle documentation for a given car.
Impact on performance and daily driving
Front-wheel drive helps maximize fuel efficiency and is well-suited to regular road conditions. The choice between manual and automatic transmissions mainly affects driving ease, convenience in heavy traffic, and acceleration feel. The absence of AWD means less traction in slippery conditions compared with all-wheel-drive rivals.
Conclusion
Overall, the 2017 Cruze’s drivetrain is straightforward: front-wheel drive with a choice of manual or automatic transmissions, and engine options that include a 1.4L turbo gas engine in the US and a diesel option in some markets.
Summary
In short, the 2017 Chevy Cruze is a front-wheel-drive compact with flexible transmission options and engine choices, designed around efficiency rather than all-terrain capability.
