The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box, equipped with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine and an automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s long-running full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2018 to 2021, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and affordability. It was part of the fourth generation (often referred to as the K2XX platform) of the Silverado, a generation focused on increased efficiency, improved interior refinement, and advanced technology compared to its predecessors. This configuration was a popular choice for both personal use and light-duty commercial applications within the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 160.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 234.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L82 |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in) |
| Compression ratio | 11.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT DI |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.8 l (13.53 US qt | 11.26 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2214 kg (4881.03 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 3221 kg (7101.09 lbs) |
| Max load | 1007 kg (2220.05 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4400 kg (9700.34 lbs) |
| Length | 5885 mm (231.69 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in) |
| Height | 1917 mm (75.47 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×20 mm |
| 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; 265/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine, designated as the L82. This engine is a member of GM’s small-block V8 family, but incorporates several modern technologies to improve efficiency and performance. Key features include direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VVT), and cylinder deactivation. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and increasing power output. Cylinder deactivation, branded as Active Fuel Management, allows the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, such as highway cruising, to conserve fuel. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a robust and well-proven unit known for its smooth shifting and durability. This transmission was specifically tuned to complement the characteristics of the 5.3L V8, providing adequate gear ratios for both towing and everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and six-speed automatic combination delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the available 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provides ample power for most tasks, including towing and hauling. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, and the cylinder deactivation system is generally seamless in operation. The gear ratios are well-suited for both city and highway driving, providing good acceleration and reasonable fuel economy. Compared to manual transmission equipped Silverados, the automatic offers greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, it does result in a slight reduction in fuel efficiency and a less engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L Automatic was available in a variety of trim levels, including LS, LT, RST, LTZ, and High Country. The base LS trim offered essential features such as air conditioning, a basic infotainment system, and cloth upholstery. The LT trim added features like upgraded infotainment, keyless entry, and power windows. The RST trim focused on appearance upgrades, while the LTZ trim offered premium features such as leather upholstery, heated seats, and a Bose sound system. The High Country trim represented the pinnacle of Silverado luxury, with exclusive features and finishes. Standard equipment on most trims included a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision alert.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV features a fully boxed frame, contributing to its robust construction and impressive towing capacity. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil spring design, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup, optimized for load-carrying capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L Automatic was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, but the cylinder deactivation system helped to improve efficiency. Compared to the 4.3L V6 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. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the cylinder deactivation system.
Legacy
The L82 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 paired with the six-speed automatic transmission has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain combination. These Silverados remain relatively common on the used car market, offering a good value for buyers seeking a capable and comfortable full-size pickup truck. While newer Silverado models have introduced more advanced technologies and features, the 2018-2021 generation remains a popular choice for those who appreciate its proven reliability and straightforward design. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of this powertrain.
