The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 engine and a four-wheel drive automatic transmission, was a popular configuration within the fourth generation of Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck, produced from 2018 to 2021. This variant occupied a middle ground in the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering a balance between capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It catered to buyers needing a versatile truck for both work and personal use, without the higher price tag associated with the larger V8 engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 (285 Hp) 4WD 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, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 125.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 182.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 413 Nm @ 3900 rpm (304.61 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LV3 |
| Engine displacement | 4301 cm3 (262.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.6 mm (3.92 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 | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2263 kg (4989.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3221 kg (7101.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 958 kg (2112.03 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3357 kg (7400.92 lbs.) |
| Length | 6127 mm (241.22 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3987 mm (156.97 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2018-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab Standard Box with the 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 and 4WD automatic transmission represented a significant update to Chevrolet’s best-selling full-size pickup. Built on the second iteration of the K2XX platform, this generation focused on increased efficiency, technology, and interior refinement. The 4.3L V6 option was introduced as a replacement for the previous 4.8L V8, aiming to provide comparable performance with improved fuel economy. This configuration was positioned as an entry-level option for buyers who didn’t require the power of the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engines, but still desired the capability of a four-wheel drive pickup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the LV3 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine. This engine utilizes aluminum cylinder heads and a cast iron block, featuring direct injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation technology. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, enhancing both power and efficiency. Cylinder deactivation, branded as Active Fuel Management, shuts down two cylinders under light load conditions to further improve fuel economy. The engine produces 285 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 305 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission is paired with the engine. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and durability. The 4WD system is an electronically controlled, two-speed transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive high, and four-wheel drive low for enhanced traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6 Silverado 1500 offered adequate performance for everyday driving and light to moderate towing. While not as quick as the V8-powered models, it provided sufficient power for merging onto highways and maintaining speed on inclines. The six-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, offering smooth and predictable shifts. The gear ratios were optimized for both fuel efficiency and towing capability. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded or towing a heavy trailer. However, the V6 offered a more refined driving experience, with less engine noise and vibration. The 4WD system provided confident traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable choice for those living in areas with inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Standard Box 4.3L 4WD was typically available in LT and RST trim levels. The LT trim included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a USB port. The RST trim added features like 18-inch wheels, a body-color grille, and LED taillamps. Optional extras included a larger touchscreen display, a premium audio system, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a sunroof, and a variety of advanced safety features such as forward collision alert and lane departure warning.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV featured a fully boxed frame, contributing to its strength and rigidity. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The front brakes measured 330x30mm, while the rear brakes were 345x20mm. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.3L V6 Silverado 1500 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its improved fuel economy compared to the V8 models, some reviewers found its performance to be lacking, particularly when towing or hauling heavy loads. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L offered a noticeable fuel economy advantage, with EPA estimates of around 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. However, the V8 provided significantly more power and towing capacity. The 4.3L was often seen as a good value proposition for buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance.
Legacy
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some owners reported minor issues with the direct injection system, such as carbon buildup on the intake valves, these were generally addressed with routine maintenance. On the used car market, the 2018-2021 Silverado 1500 4.3L 4WD remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup. Its combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and available features makes it a compelling option in its price range. The engine’s longevity and the truck’s overall durability contribute to its continued appeal.
