The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, in its third generation and specifically the 2016 facelift, represented a significant evolution of Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck. This iteration, produced from 2016 to 2018, continued to be a mainstay in the highly competitive North American truck market. The Crew Cab Short Box configuration, paired with the 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of capability, comfort, and modern technology. This particular variant occupied a mid-range position within the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering more power and refinement than the base V6 models, but remaining more accessible than the top-tier trims equipped with the larger 6.2L V8.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III (facelift 2016) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 EcoTec3 (355 Hp) 4WD Automatic 8-speed |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (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 | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 215.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L83 |
| Engine displacement | 5326 cm3 (325.01 cu. in.) |
| 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 | VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 15.7 l (16.59 US qt | 13.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2404 kg (5299.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3447 kg (7599.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1043 kg (2299.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1512 l (53.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2767 kg (6100.19 lbs.) |
| Length | 5843 mm (230.04 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1879 mm (73.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1748 mm (68.82 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 226 mm (8.9 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission eAssist |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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; 275/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 9J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 5.3L L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine represents a significant departure from earlier Chevrolet small-block designs, incorporating features like direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and continuously variable valve timing (VVT). Direct injection improves fuel efficiency and power output by precisely controlling fuel delivery. Active Fuel Management allows the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, further enhancing fuel economy. The 8-speed automatic transmission, a key upgrade for 2016, provided smoother shifts and a wider gear ratio spread compared to the previous 6-speed unit. This transmission, sourced from General Motors, is electronically controlled and features a tow/haul mode optimized for heavier loads. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis, driving all four wheels through a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8, producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, delivered ample power for everyday driving and towing. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8-equipped Silverados, the 5.3L offered a more balanced driving experience. The 8-speed automatic transmission helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. The gear ratios were tuned for both fuel efficiency and towing capability. Compared to manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, some drivers preferred the more direct control offered by a manual gearbox. The four-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in various weather conditions and off-road scenarios.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L 4WD Silverado typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Higher trim levels, such as LT and LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and a trailering package. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims and leather on higher trims. Dashboard configurations varied depending on the trim level, with higher trims featuring more premium materials and finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 utilized a fully boxed frame construction, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The suspension system consisted of independent front suspension with coil springs and a multi-leaf rear suspension. Rear brakes were typically discs on 4WD models, providing adequate stopping power for the truck’s weight. The front brakes were ventilated discs. 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 ride height provided adequate ground clearance for off-road use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic received generally positive reviews. Critics praised the truck’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, with the 5.3L V8 offering slightly better fuel efficiency than the 6.2L V8. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Silverado was often seen as a strong contender, offering a compelling combination of value, capability, and refinement. The 5.3L engine was considered a sweet spot in the lineup, providing enough power for most tasks without the higher price tag of the 6.2L.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some owners have reported issues with oil consumption, these problems are not widespread. The 8-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. In the used car market, these Silverado 1500s remain popular choices for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. Their combination of power, comfort, and technology continues to make them a competitive option in their price range. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
