The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 III Regular Cab, equipped with the 5.3-liter V8 EcoTec3 engine producing 355 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s long-running full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2013 through 2016, this configuration occupied a central position within the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering a balance between capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was part of the third generation of the Silverado (and GMC Sierra), known internally as the K2HD platform, which brought substantial improvements in interior refinement, technology, and powertrain options compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 EcoTec3 (355 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 173.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 254 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| 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 | 2043 kg (4504.04 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1504 l (53.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 5222 mm (205.59 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1867-1882 mm (73.5 – 74.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3023 mm (119.02 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 | 245/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 5.3-liter L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine represented a significant leap forward in Chevrolet’s V8 technology, featuring direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and continuously variable valve timing. Direct injection allowed for more precise fuel delivery, improving both power and efficiency. Active Fuel Management enabled the engine to switch to a four-cylinder mode during light-load conditions, further enhancing fuel economy. The engine produced 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission (6L80E) was chosen for its durability and ability to handle the engine’s output. This transmission featured electronically controlled shifting and a wide gear ratio spread, optimizing both acceleration and highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the available 6.2-liter V8, the 5.3L offered ample power for everyday driving and towing. The automatic transmission shifted smoothly and responsively, and the active fuel management system was generally seamless in operation. The gear ratios were well-suited for both city and highway driving, providing adequate acceleration in most situations. Compared to the manual transmission equipped Silverado 1500s, the automatic offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, the manual transmission did provide slightly better fuel economy and a more direct connection to the engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 1500 III Regular Cab with the 5.3L V8 and automatic transmission was typically offered in WT (Work Truck), LT, and LTZ trim levels. The WT trim was the base model, geared towards commercial use and featuring basic amenities like vinyl upholstery, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. The LT trim added features such as cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, and an upgraded audio system. The LTZ trim was the most luxurious, offering leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and additional chrome exterior trim. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 III Regular Cab featured a fully boxed frame, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension utilized leaf springs. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering. The standard tire size was 245/75R16, mounted on 16-inch steel or alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 III with the 5.3L V8 and automatic transmission was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered competitive for a full-size pickup truck, although it lagged behind some of the smaller, more fuel-efficient options. Compared to the 4.8L V8 Silverado, the 5.3L offered a significant increase in power and towing capacity. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L was more affordable and offered slightly better fuel economy. The Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 were the Silverado’s primary competitors, and each offered similar configurations and features.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 proved to be a reliable and durable engine, and many examples are still on the road today. While some early models experienced issues with oil consumption, these were generally addressed through updated PCV systems and other revisions. The 6L80E automatic transmission is also known for its robustness. In the used car market, the Silverado 1500 III Regular Cab with the 5.3L V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. Its balance of power, efficiency, and reliability makes it a compelling option for both work and personal use.
