The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, in its third generation and specifically the 2016 facelift, represented a significant evolution of Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck. Introduced for the 2014 model year, the third generation received a substantial refresh in 2016, focusing on updated styling, enhanced interior materials, and improved technology. The Double Cab Standard Box configuration, paired with the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of capability, space, and value. This particular variant occupied a mid-range position within the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering more power and features than the base V6 models, but remaining more accessible than the top-tier trims equipped with the larger 6.2-liter V8.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III (facelift 2016) Double Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 EcoTec3 (355 Hp) 4WD Automatic 6-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) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 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 | 6.7 kg/Hp, 149.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 218.7 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 | 2373 kg (5231.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3266 kg (7200.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 893 kg (1968.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1727 l (60.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2812 kg (6199.4 lbs.) |
| Length | 5843 mm (230.04 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1877 mm (73.9 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) | 225 mm (8.86 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| 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 5.3-liter L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s Gen V Small Block family, known for its aluminum block construction, direct injection, and variable valve timing (VVT). The direct injection system, combined with the cylinder deactivation technology (Active Fuel Management), aimed to improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing power. The L83 produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission (6L80) was a robust unit designed to handle the engine’s output and the truck’s towing capacity. This transmission featured electronically controlled shifting and a wide gear ratio spread, optimizing both acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the six-speed automatic provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L equipped Silverados, the 5.3L offered ample power for everyday driving and towing. The automatic transmission shifted smoothly, and the VVT system helped to provide a broad torque curve. The 6L80 transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for both hauling and highway cruising. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic prioritized ease of use and convenience, making it a popular choice for drivers who didn’t require the added control of a manual gearbox. The 4WD system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and off-road conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Double Cab Standard Box 5.3L 4WD typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. 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 various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 featured a fully boxed frame, contributing to its strength and rigidity. The suspension consisted of independent front suspension with coil springs and a solid rear axle with leaf springs. The braking system utilized ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the truck’s weight. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The Double Cab Standard Box configuration offered a good balance between interior space and bed length, making it suitable for both passenger and cargo needs.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2016 Silverado 1500 facelift was generally well-received by critics, who praised its updated styling, improved interior, and capable powertrain options. The 5.3L V8 with the six-speed automatic was considered a solid all-around performer, offering a good balance of power, fuel economy, and towing capacity. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L offered slightly lower performance but better fuel economy. The 5.3L also provided a more affordable entry point into the Silverado 1500 lineup. Against competitors like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Silverado 1500 held its own, offering a competitive package of features and capabilities.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 has proven to be a relatively reliable engine, with many examples exceeding 150,000 miles with proper maintenance. Common issues include oil consumption and occasional sensor failures, but these are generally not major concerns. The 6L80 transmission is also known for its durability. In the used car market, the 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 Double Cab Standard Box 5.3L 4WD remains a popular choice, offering a good value for buyers seeking a capable and reliable full-size pickup truck. Its blend of power, space, and features continues to make it a competitive option in its segment.
