The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab, 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 Double Cab |
| 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 | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 192.7 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 | 2143 kg (4724.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3084 kg (6799.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 941 kg (2074.55 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3356 kg (7398.71 lbs.) |
| Length | 5886 mm (231.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1921 mm (75.63 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 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, 345 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360 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 Double Cab with the 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 and 4WD automatic transmission represented a significant update to Chevrolet’s best-selling full-size pickup. Part of the fourth generation (introduced in 2018, internally designated as the 1HX0 platform), this configuration aimed to provide a more fuel-efficient and accessible entry point into the Silverado lineup. It was positioned below the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 options, targeting buyers who prioritized everyday usability and towing capacity over outright performance. The Double Cab body style offered increased rear passenger space compared to the standard cab, making it suitable for families or crews.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine, designated as the LV3. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring a 60-degree V-angle. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, improving efficiency and power output. The engine utilizes an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, a design choice Chevrolet maintained for its durability and cost-effectiveness. A key feature of the EcoTec3 family is Active Fuel Management (AFM), also known as cylinder deactivation, which shuts down cylinders under light load conditions to further enhance 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 Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and reliability. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively deep first gear for towing and a higher overdrive gear for highway cruising. The 4WD system is a traditional part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6-powered Silverado 1500 Double Cab delivers adequate performance for most everyday driving situations. While it doesn’t offer the brisk acceleration of the V8 models, it provides sufficient power for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, and the AFM system is generally seamless in its operation. However, some drivers may notice a slight vibration when the engine is operating in V4 mode.
Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L feels noticeably less powerful, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads. The V8 offers a broader torque curve and more overall power, making it better suited for demanding tasks. The 4.3L, however, offers a significant improvement in fuel economy, particularly in city driving. The gear ratios in the six-speed automatic are well-matched to the engine’s powerband, providing reasonable acceleration in each gear.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 1500 Double Cab 4.3L 4WD was typically offered in LT and RST trim levels. The LT trim included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen. The RST trim added features like 18-inch wheels, LED lighting, and a more aggressive exterior styling. Optional extras included a larger touchscreen display, navigation, a premium audio system, leather upholstery, and a variety of safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab utilizes a fully boxed frame for enhanced strength and rigidity. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and good load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The front brakes measure 345mm in diameter, while the rear brakes are slightly larger at 360mm. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Silverado 1500 IV for its improved interior quality, comfortable ride, and available technology. 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. Fuel economy figures were competitive for the segment, with EPA estimates ranging from 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway. Compared to the Ford F-150 with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, the Silverado 4.3L offered less power but a simpler, more traditional powertrain.
Legacy
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6-powered Silverado 1500 Double Cab has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The engine is known for its durability, and the six-speed automatic transmission has a good track record. On the used car market, these Silverados represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup. While not as sought-after as the V8 models, they offer a compelling combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and dependability. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is excellent.
