The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, in its third generation and specifically the 2016 facelift, represented a significant evolution of Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck. Produced from 2016 to 2018, the Crew Cab Short Box configuration with the 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of capability, comfort, and modern technology. This 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 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) 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) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 155.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227.2 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 | 15.7 l (16.59 US qt | 13.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2284 kg (5035.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3357 kg (7400.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1073 kg (2365.56 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%) | 2948 kg (6499.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 5843 mm (230.04 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1884 mm (74.17 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) | 222 mm (8.74 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2016-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L V8 represented a sweet spot in the Silverado lineup. Following the mid-cycle refresh in 2016, the truck received updated styling, enhanced interior materials, and the continued refinement of the EcoTec3 engine family. The Crew Cab configuration offered ample passenger space, making it suitable for families and work crews alike, while the short bed provided a practical cargo area. This particular variant, powered by the 5.3L V8 and paired with the eight-speed automatic, aimed to deliver a blend of towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and everyday usability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado variant lies the 5.3L L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (AFM), a cylinder deactivation system designed to improve fuel economy during light-load driving. The L83 boasts aluminum cylinder heads and a cast iron block, contributing to its durability. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission (8L45-E) was a key upgrade, replacing the older six-speed unit. This transmission offered closer gear ratios, improving both acceleration and fuel efficiency. The 8L45-E is electronically controlled and features a wide gear spread, allowing the engine to operate in its most efficient range more often.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 with the 8-speed automatic provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8 models, the 5.3L offered sufficient power for most everyday tasks, including towing and hauling. The eight-speed transmission helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in smooth and responsive acceleration. The AFM system was generally seamless in operation, though some drivers reported a slight vibration when transitioning between V8 and V4 modes. Compared to manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. The short wheelbase of the Crew Cab Short Box configuration contributed to a relatively nimble feel for a full-size truck.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 offered a range of trim levels, with the 5.3L V8 typically available on LT and LTZ trims. Standard features on these trims included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Higher trims, like the LTZ, added features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 utilized a fully boxed frame construction, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. The rear brakes on most configurations were disc brakes, a significant improvement over the earlier drum brake setups. The steering system was an electric power rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel. Available options included a Z71 off-road suspension package, which added Rancho shocks, skid plates, and an increased ride height. The braking system was adequate for most driving conditions, but heavier loads required more planning and distance for stopping.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 Automatic was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was generally considered acceptable for a full-size truck, although it lagged behind some of the newer, more technologically advanced competitors. Compared to the 4.3L V6 models, the 5.3L offered a significant boost in power and towing capacity. In contrast to the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provided a more affordable entry point into the Silverado lineup without sacrificing too much performance. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the AFM system and oil consumption.
Legacy
The 2016-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 Automatic remains a popular choice in the used truck market. The EcoTec3 engine, while not without its quirks, has proven to be relatively durable with proper maintenance. The eight-speed automatic transmission is also considered a reliable unit. These trucks offer a good balance of capability, comfort, and value, making them a practical choice for buyers seeking a full-size pickup. While newer Silverado models offer more advanced features and improved fuel economy, the 2016-2018 generation continues to represent a solid and dependable option for those in need of a capable workhorse.
