The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box, equipped with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and paired with 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, which brought advancements in materials science and design to improve both strength and weight. This particular configuration was a popular choice for those needing a capable daily driver and occasional towing vehicle.
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 DFM |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 153.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 224.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L84 |
| 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 |
| 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 | 13.1 l (13.84 US qt | 11.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2309 kg (5090.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3311 kg (7299.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1002 kg (2209.03 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5126 kg (11300.9 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). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 345 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado variant lies the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine, designated as the L84. This engine is a naturally aspirated, aluminum-block V8 featuring direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VVT), and cylinder deactivation. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, enhancing both power and efficiency. Cylinder deactivation, branded as Active Fuel Management, shuts down four cylinders during light-load driving conditions, further improving fuel economy. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 8L45 eight-speed automatic transmission is the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission offers smooth shifting and a wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The 8L45 is known for its durability and responsiveness, making it well-suited for truck applications.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic combination delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the available 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provides ample power for everyday driving and towing. The eight-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. The 4WD system offers enhanced traction in various conditions, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road use. Compared to the 2.7L Turbo or the diesel options, this configuration offers a more traditional V8 feel with a broader powerband. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual transmission, but it excels in providing smooth and effortless operation.
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. Higher trims like LTZ and High Country included 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. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and various driver-assistance features.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, contributing to its robust build quality and towing capacity. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil spring design, providing a comfortable ride. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup, optimized for load-carrying capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 345mm, while the rear brakes are slightly larger at 360mm. ABS is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab with the 5.3L V8 and 4WD was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, with EPA estimates around 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Silverado offered a competitive package with a strong emphasis on value and capability. The 5.3L V8 offered a good balance between power and efficiency, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t require the extra power of the 6.2L V8 or the fuel economy of a diesel engine.
Legacy
The L84 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 paired with the 8L45 transmission has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some owners have reported minor issues with the Active Fuel Management system, the engine and transmission are generally considered durable and long-lasting. In the used car market, these Silverados hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition with lower mileage. The combination of capability, comfort, and technology makes this variant a desirable choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded full-size pickup truck.
