The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 III Double Cab, equipped with the 4.3L V6 EcoTec3 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, was a mainstay of Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck lineup from 2013 to 2016. This configuration represented a balance between capability and affordability within the broader Silverado range, targeting buyers who needed the space of a double cab but didn’t require the higher performance or towing capacity of the larger V8 engines. It served as a popular choice for families and individuals needing a versatile truck for both work and everyday use in the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 4.3 V6 EcoTec3 (285 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 413 Nm @ 3900 rpm (304.61 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LV3 |
| Engine displacement | 4293 cm3 (261.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.6 mm (3.92 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 15.1 l (15.96 US qt | 13.29 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2241 kg (4940.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3130 kg (6900.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 889 kg (1959.91 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 | 5842 mm (230 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1877 mm (73.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 222 mm (8.74 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 | 245/70 R17; 265/65 R18; 275/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 4.3L LV3 EcoTec3 V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injection powerplant featuring aluminum cylinder heads and a cast iron block. The EcoTec3 family of engines was designed for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to previous Chevrolet V6 offerings. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and power output. The engine utilizes a variable valve timing system to further enhance efficiency and responsiveness. The six-speed automatic transmission (likely the 6L80) was chosen for its smooth shifting and ability to handle the engine’s torque output. This transmission featured electronically controlled shifting and overdrive capabilities for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6 Silverado offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to its V8 siblings. While it didn’t deliver the same level of raw power or towing capacity, it provided adequate performance for everyday driving and lighter hauling tasks. Acceleration was respectable, but not brisk. The automatic transmission was tuned for fuel economy, resulting in relatively conservative gear ratios. This meant that the engine often operated at lower RPMs during normal driving conditions. Compared to the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 models, the 4.3L felt less powerful when fully loaded or climbing steep hills. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to slightly improved handling and a more comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.3L V6 engine was typically offered on the base and mid-level trim packages of the Silverado 1500 Double Cab, such as the WT (Work Truck) and LT (Luxury Trim). Standard features on these trims included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The LT trim added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and a more advanced audio system. Optional extras included a navigation system, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and various safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Double Cab configuration provided seating for five passengers and offered a spacious rear seat for passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 III Double Cab utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The suspension system consisted of independent front suspension with coil springs and a solid rear axle with leaf springs. The rear brakes were typically disc brakes, a step up from the drums found on some earlier Silverado models. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard equipment. Steering was rack-and-pinion with electric power steering, offering a comfortable and responsive driving experience. The chassis was designed to balance ride comfort with load-carrying capability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.3L V6 Silverado Double Cab was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable option in the full-size pickup truck segment. It offered a good value proposition for buyers who didn’t need the maximum towing capacity or performance of the V8 models. Fuel economy was a key selling point, as the V6 engine delivered better MPG figures than its larger counterparts. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when hauling heavy loads or driving in challenging terrain. Compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 with its EcoBoost engines, the Silverado’s V6 offered a more traditional engine experience, lacking the turbocharging technology that provided increased power and efficiency in some rival trucks.
Legacy
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not without its occasional issues (like oil consumption in some cases), it generally held up well over time with proper maintenance. In the used car market, Silverado 1500 Double Cabs equipped with this engine and transmission represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable pickup truck. They are often found with higher mileage but can still provide years of reliable service. The combination of a spacious cabin, decent fuel economy, and a reasonable price point continues to make this Silverado variant a popular choice among used truck buyers.
