The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 III Crew Cab, equipped with the 6.2-liter V8 EcoTec3 engine producing 420 horsepower, represented a significant offering in the full-size pickup truck segment from the 2013 to 2016 model years. This variant occupied a premium position within the Silverado lineup, appealing to buyers seeking substantial power and capability for towing, hauling, and everyday use. It was part of the third generation of the Silverado (2014–2018), known internally as the K2XX platform, which brought improvements in ride quality, interior refinement, and technology compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III Crew Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 6.2 V8 EcoTec3 (420 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 year |
| End of production | 2016 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.6 kg/Hp, 177.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 263.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 420 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 623 Nm @ 4100 rpm (459.5 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L86 |
| Engine displacement | 6162 cm3 (376.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15.7 l (16.59 US qt | 13.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2366 kg (5216.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1727 l (60.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 6086 mm (239.61 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1872-1885 mm (73.7 – 74.21 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3886 mm (152.99 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 216 mm (8.5 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 6.2-liter L86 V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s EcoTec3 family, characterized by direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and variable valve timing. Direct injection allows for more precise fuel delivery, improving efficiency and power output. Active Fuel Management enables the engine to switch to a four-cylinder mode during light-load conditions, further enhancing fuel economy. The L86 produces 420 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 459.5 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine’s architecture is a 90-degree V8, providing a relatively compact design for a large-displacement engine. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis, driving the rear wheels. Paired with the L86 is a six-speed automatic transmission (likely the 6L80), chosen for its durability and ability to handle the engine’s substantial torque. This transmission features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.2L Silverado Crew Cab delivers a robust driving experience. The high torque output provides strong acceleration, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads. While not as fuel-efficient as the smaller engine options (4.3L or 5.3L), the 6.2L offers a noticeable performance advantage. The six-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive, although some drivers noted that it could occasionally hunt for gears in certain situations. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 6.2L provides a more effortless feel, particularly when fully loaded. The gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving, with a relatively low first gear for quick starts and a high sixth gear for efficient highway cruising. The Crew Cab configuration contributes to a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and providing a stable platform.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 6.2L engine was typically offered on higher trim levels of the Silverado 1500, such as the LTZ and High Country. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system. LTZ trims added leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and additional chrome exterior trim. The High Country trim represented the pinnacle of Silverado luxury, offering even more premium features such as ventilated front seats, a navigation system, and unique exterior styling. Optional extras included a sunroof, a trailering package, and various safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision alert.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 III Crew Cab utilizes a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The suspension consists of independent front suspension with coil springs and a solid rear axle with leaf springs. The rear brakes are typically disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power for the truck’s weight. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power steering, offering a responsive and comfortable driving experience. The 6.2L models often featured heavier-duty suspension components to handle the increased weight and torque. Tire size is typically 245/75R16, providing a good balance of ride comfort and off-road capability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.2L Silverado 1500 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, its fuel economy was often criticized, especially compared to smaller engine options and competitors like the Ford F-150 with its EcoBoost engines. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 6.2L offered a significant performance boost but came at a higher price and with lower fuel efficiency. The 6.2L was often seen as a direct competitor to the Ford F-150’s 5.0L V8 and the Ram 1500’s 5.7L Hemi V8, offering similar levels of power and capability.
Legacy
The L86 6.2L EcoTec3 engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some owners have reported issues with oil consumption, these are not widespread. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally considered durable. In the used car market, the 6.2L Silverado 1500 Crew Cab commands a premium price compared to models with smaller engines, reflecting its desirable performance and capability. These trucks remain popular choices for buyers seeking a powerful and capable full-size pickup for work or recreation. The EcoTec3 engine family, including the L86, helped establish Chevrolet as a leader in V8 engine technology, paving the way for future advancements in efficiency and performance.
