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, offered from 2014-2018, aimed to balance capability, comfort, and technology in a highly competitive segment. The Double Cab Standard Box configuration with the 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive was a popular choice, positioned as a versatile workhorse and family vehicle. This particular combination offered a sweet spot between the base V6 and the more powerful 6.2L V8 options, appealing to buyers needing substantial towing capacity and everyday usability.
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 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 | 6.7 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 capacity | 15.7 l (16.59 US qt | 13.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2373 kg (5231.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3447 kg (7599.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1074 kg (2367.76 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%) | 4899 kg (10800.45 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 | 8 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 5.3L L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine represented a significant departure from previous Chevrolet small-block designs, incorporating features like direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and continuously variable valve timing (VVT). Direct injection improved fuel efficiency and power output, while active fuel management allowed the engine to switch to four-cylinder mode during light-load conditions, further enhancing fuel economy. The 8-speed automatic transmission (8L45-E) was a key component, offering a wider gear ratio spread than the previous 6-speed, contributing to improved acceleration and highway cruising. This transmission was known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive bias, coupled with the available four-wheel-drive system, provided robust traction and towing capabilities.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the 8-speed automatic delivered a balanced driving experience. While not as overtly powerful as the 6.2L V8, it provided ample torque for everyday driving and towing. The 8-speed transmission kept the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in brisk acceleration. The gear ratios were well-suited for both city and highway driving, with a relatively tall overdrive gear for fuel-efficient cruising. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, some drivers preferred the more direct control of a manual gearbox. The four-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and off-road conditions, making this Silverado a capable all-season vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 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 audio system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and a trailering package. The interior design was functional and durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The suspension consisted of independent front suspension with coil springs and a solid rear axle with leaf springs. The rear brakes on many configurations were still drum brakes, although disc brakes were available on higher trim levels and as an option. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive and precise handling. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis was designed to handle heavy loads and provide a comfortable ride, even when towing.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its strong towing capacity, comfortable ride, and improved fuel economy compared to previous generations. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials were not as refined as those found in some competing trucks, such as the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. The 5.3L V8 offered a good balance between power and efficiency, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t need the extra power of the 6.2L V8. Fuel economy figures were competitive for the segment, averaging around 15-21 mpg in real-world driving.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 engine and 8L45-E transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains. While some owners have reported issues with oil consumption and active fuel management system components, these problems are not widespread. The Silverado 1500 from this era remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of capability, comfort, and value. Its robust construction and proven powertrain make it a durable and dependable truck for years to come. Parts availability is excellent, and maintenance costs are generally reasonable, contributing to its continued appeal.
