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 aimed at both work and personal use. It falls within the fourth generation of the Silverado (introduced in 2016), known internally as the K2XX platform, which brought advancements in materials science, aerodynamics, and powertrain efficiency. This particular configuration was a popular choice for buyers seeking a robust truck without the higher price tag of the range-topping trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355 Hp) 4WD Automatic DFM |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 156.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 228.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 518 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.06 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L84 |
| 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | VVT DI |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13.1 l (13.84 US qt | 11.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2271 kg (5006.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3311 kg (7299.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1040 kg (2292.81 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5534 kg (12200.38 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 | 8 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 |
| 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 EcoTec3 V8 engine, designated as the L84. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (AFM), or cylinder deactivation, to improve fuel economy during light-load driving conditions. The EcoTec3 family of engines were a significant departure for GM, utilizing aluminum cylinder heads and a strengthened cast iron block. The direct injection system, coupled with variable valve timing (VVT), allows for precise control over combustion, optimizing both power and efficiency. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 8L45 eight-speed automatic transmission is the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission offers a wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both improved acceleration and reduced engine speeds at highway cruising, further enhancing fuel economy. The 8L45 is known for its smooth shifting and durability.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic combination delivers a capable and comfortable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8 option, the 5.3L provides ample power for everyday driving and towing. The eight-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. The 4WD system offers enhanced traction in various conditions, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road use. Compared to the 2.7L Turbo or the diesel options, this configuration offers a more traditional V8 feel with a broader powerband. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual transmission, but it’s well-suited for the truck’s intended purpose.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 1500 Double Cab 5.3L 4WD was available in several trim levels, including LS, LT, and RST. The LS trim served as the base model, offering essential features like air conditioning, a basic infotainment system, and steel wheels. The LT trim added features such as alloy wheels, an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, and convenience features like keyless entry. The RST trim offered a more sporty appearance with unique styling cues. Standard features across most trims included a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Optional extras included a navigation system, a premium sound system, leather upholstery, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision alert.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab utilizes a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride while maintaining a high payload and towing capacity. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The rear brakes are slightly larger (360mm) than the front (345mm) to accommodate the heavier loads often carried by pickup trucks. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power steering for improved responsiveness and efficiency.
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 the AFM system helping to improve efficiency. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Silverado offered a competitive package with a strong emphasis on value. The 5.3L V8 offered a good balance between power and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t need the extra power of the 6.2L V8. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the AFM system.
Legacy
The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 paired with the 8-speed automatic transmission has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While the AFM system has been known to experience issues in some cases, proper maintenance and fluid changes can help to mitigate these problems. In the used car market, these Silverado variants hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition with low mileage. They remain a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. The combination of a proven V8 engine, a smooth-shifting transmission, and a comfortable interior makes this Silverado a practical and dependable vehicle for a wide range of applications.
