The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, a full-size pickup truck, has been a mainstay of the American automotive landscape for decades. The third generation, produced from 2014 to 2018, received a significant facelift in 2016, bringing updated styling and technology. This article focuses on the 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 Regular Cab Standard Box configuration equipped with the 4.3L V6 EcoTec3 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This particular variant occupied the entry-level position within the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering a balance of capability and affordability for buyers prioritizing work and utility over outright performance or luxury.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III (facelift 2016) Regular Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 4.3 V6 EcoTec3 (285 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| 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 | 7.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 414 Nm @ 3900 rpm (305.35 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 |
| 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 | 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 | 2048 kg (4515.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2948 kg (6499.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 900 kg (1984.16 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%) | 2722 kg (6000.98 lbs.) |
| Length | 5221 mm (205.55 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1879 mm (73.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3023 mm (119.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1748 mm (68.82 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 209 mm (8.23 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Introduction
The 2016-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Regular Cab Standard Box with the 4.3L V6 and automatic transmission represented a work-focused offering within the broader Silverado range. Positioned below the more popular 5.3L V8 and 6.2L V8 options, it catered to buyers who needed a capable truck for everyday tasks and light hauling, without the higher price tag and fuel consumption associated with the larger engines. The facelifted Silverado brought a more refined front-end appearance, improved interior materials, and updated technology features, enhancing the overall ownership experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 4.3L (262 cubic inch) EcoTec3 V6 engine, designated as the LV3. This engine is a naturally aspirated, aluminum-block V6 featuring direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VVT), and cylinder deactivation. The direct injection system optimizes fuel delivery for improved efficiency and power, while VVT adjusts valve timing to enhance performance across the engine’s operating range. Cylinder deactivation allows the engine to operate on fewer cylinders during light-load conditions, further improving fuel economy. The engine produces 285 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 305 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm.
The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission (6L40-E). This transmission is known for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency, prioritizing usability in everyday driving situations. While not designed for rapid acceleration, the transmission provides adequate power for most tasks, including towing and hauling moderate loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6-powered Silverado 1500 delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for daily commuting and highway merging, but it won’t offer the brisk performance of the V8 models. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, and the cylinder deactivation system is generally seamless in operation. The truck’s rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a traditional truck feel, and the suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, even when carrying a load. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L feels noticeably less powerful, especially when towing or hauling heavy items. However, the V6 offers significantly better fuel economy, making it a more economical choice for those who don’t require the extra power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base Silverado 1500 Regular Cab Standard Box with the 4.3L V6 typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, a basic audio system, vinyl upholstery, and steel wheels. Higher trim levels, such as the LT, added features like cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and an upgraded audio system. Optional extras included a trailer hitch, bed liner, and various convenience packages. The interior, while functional, was relatively basic in the base trim, focusing on durability and ease of cleaning rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500’s chassis is a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for hauling and towing. The front suspension utilizes independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs leaf springs. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard equipment. The standard suspension setup provides a comfortable ride, but it’s not particularly sporty. The rear leaf springs can sometimes result in a slightly bumpy ride when the truck is unloaded.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Silverado 1500 for its overall capability and durability. However, the 4.3L V6 engine received mixed reviews. While it was acknowledged as being fuel-efficient, some reviewers found it to be underpowered, especially when compared to the V8 options. The 4.3L offered better fuel economy than the 5.3L V8, achieving around 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Reliability was generally good, with the EcoTec3 engine proving to be a relatively dependable powerplant. The 4.3L Silverado appealed to buyers who prioritized affordability and fuel economy over outright performance.
Legacy
The 2016-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 4.3L V6 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice in the used truck market. Its affordability, fuel efficiency, and proven reliability make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a capable and dependable work truck. While it may not offer the same level of performance as the V8 models, the 4.3L engine has proven to be a durable and long-lasting powerplant, capable of providing years of reliable service with proper maintenance. The EcoTec3 engine, while having some early reports of oil consumption issues, generally holds up well over time, and parts availability remains excellent.
