The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab, equipped with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and paired with a 4WD 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 technology for buyers needing a versatile work and family vehicle. It falls within the fourth generation of the Silverado (introduced in 2016), known internally as the K2XX platform, which brought advancements in materials science and powertrain efficiency to the popular truck.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355 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) | 15.6 l/100 km (15.1 US mpg, 18.1 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 158.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 231.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 518 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.06 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 | 96.01 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 | 2241 kg (4940.56 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs) |
| Max load | 934 kg (2059.12 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4355 kg (9601.13 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado variant lies the 5.3-liter L82 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s small-block V8 family, but incorporates several technologies aimed at improving efficiency and power delivery. Key features include direct injection, variable valve timing (VVT), and cylinder deactivation. The direct injection system precisely meters fuel into the combustion chambers, enhancing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. VVT optimizes valve timing based on engine speed and load, improving both power and fuel economy. Cylinder deactivation allows the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, further conserving fuel. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission is the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and durability, and its gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination delivers a capable and comfortable 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 efficiently, and the gear ratios are well-suited for both highway cruising and off-road driving. The 4WD system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions. Compared to the 2.7L Turbo or the diesel options, this configuration offers a more traditional V8 feel with a broader powerband. The 6-speed automatic, while reliable, doesn’t offer the same level of responsiveness or fuel efficiency as the newer 8- or 10-speed transmissions found in later Silverado models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 1500 Double Cab 5.3L 4WD was available in a range of trim levels, including LS, LT, and LTZ. The LS trim served as the entry-level option, offering basic features such as air conditioning, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system. The LT trim added features like heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an upgraded infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The LTZ trim represented the premium option, adding features like leather upholstery, a Bose audio system, and advanced safety features. Standard features across most trims included power windows and locks, cruise control, and a tilt-adjustable steering wheel. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and a trailering package.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil spring design, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Brakes are ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger rotors on the rear axle. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab 5.3L 4WD was generally 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, with EPA estimates ranging from 15 mpg city to 20 mpg highway. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Silverado offered a competitive package, but some reviewers noted that the interior materials and design were not as refined as those of its rivals. The 5.3L V8 offered a good balance of power and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t need the extra power of the 6.2L V8 or the fuel efficiency of the diesel engine.
Legacy
The L82 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 paired with the 6L80 transmission has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some owners have reported issues with oil consumption and active fuel management (cylinder deactivation) systems, these issues are generally not widespread. The Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab 5.3L 4WD remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a good value for buyers seeking a capable and versatile full-size pickup truck. Its robust construction and proven powertrain ensure that it will continue to provide reliable service for years to come.
