The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box, equipped with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine and a 4WD automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s long-running full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2018 to 2021, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology for a broad range of truck buyers. It falls within the fourth generation of the Silverado (introduced in 2016), known internally as the K2XX platform. This generation marked a shift towards increased use of high-strength steel in the body construction, resulting in a lighter, yet stronger, truck compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 518 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.06 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L82 |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT DI |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.8 l (13.53 US qt | 11.26 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2241 kg (4940.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3266 kg (7200.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1025 kg (2259.74 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4309 kg (9499.72 lbs.) |
| Length | 5885 mm (231.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1918 mm (75.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/70 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/65 R18; 275/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Introduction
The 2018-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab Short Box with the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 and 4WD automatic transmission was a mainstay of the Chevrolet truck lineup. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to buyers needing a versatile truck for both work and family duties. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample passenger space, while the short bed offered a good compromise between cargo capacity and maneuverability. This particular variant was a popular choice in the North American market, competing directly with offerings from Ford, Ram, and GMC.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado variant lies the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine, designated as the L82. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy under light load conditions. The L82 utilizes a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, and a variable valve timing (VVT) system. The direct injection system, operating at a relatively high compression ratio of 11.1:1, contributes to both power and efficiency. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission is paired with the engine. This transmission is known for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics. It features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 6L80 automatic combination delivers a capable and comfortable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8 option, the 5.3L provides sufficient power for everyday driving, towing, and hauling. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth gear changes and responsive downshifts. The 6-speed transmission, while adequate, lacks the extra gear found in some competitor’s transmissions, potentially impacting highway fuel economy slightly. The 4WD system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather and off-road conditions. The Silverado’s suspension, while tuned for comfort, can feel somewhat busy over rough roads, especially when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L 4WD was available in various trim levels, including LS, LT, RST, LTZ, and High Country. The base LS trim offered essential features like air conditioning, a basic infotainment system, and steel wheels. The LT trim added features such as alloy wheels, an upgraded infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and keyless entry. The RST trim focused on appearance upgrades, while the LTZ and High Country trims offered premium features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a Bose audio system, and advanced safety technologies. Standard safety features across most trims included ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV utilizes a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel. The front suspension features independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The front brakes measure 330x30mm, while the rear brakes are 345x20mm. ABS is standard, providing enhanced braking control in emergency situations. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, offering a responsive and comfortable steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 IV with the 5.3L V8 and 4WD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. However, some critics noted that the interior materials were not as upscale as those found in some competing trucks. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. Compared to the 5.3L’s siblings, the 4.3L V6 offered better fuel economy but less power, while the 6.2L V8 provided significantly more performance but at a higher price point. The 3.0L Duramax diesel offered excellent fuel economy and towing capability, but came with a higher initial cost.
Legacy
The L82 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 paired with the 6L80 transmission has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some owners have reported issues with oil consumption and Active Fuel Management system components, these issues are not widespread. On the used car market, these Silverados represent a good value proposition, offering a capable and comfortable truck at a reasonable price. The 2018-2021 models benefit from the improvements made during the fourth generation, including the increased use of high-strength steel and the updated infotainment system. They remain a popular choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded full-size pickup truck.
