The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Regular Cab Long Box, equipped with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s long-running full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2018 to 2021, this configuration occupied a central position within the fourth generation (2016-2022) Silverado lineup, offering a balance between capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It catered to buyers needing a robust work truck or a capable daily driver without the premium price tag of higher trim levels or the increased fuel consumption of larger engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 IV Regular Cab Long 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 | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| 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 | 5.7 kg/Hp, 175 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 255.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L82 |
| Engine displacement | 5328 cm3 (325.13 cu. in.) |
| 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 | 2029 kg (4473.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3084 kg (6799.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1055 kg (2325.88 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2523 l (89.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 107 l (28.27 US gal | 23.54 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4581 kg (10099.38 lbs.) |
| Length | 5829 mm (229.49 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3545 mm (139.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 209 mm (8.23 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, 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 | 8J 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 Chevrolet’s Gen V Small Block family, known for its aluminum block construction, direct injection, and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation). The direct injection system, coupled with variable valve timing (VVT), optimizes combustion efficiency and power delivery. The L82 produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine’s architecture prioritizes low-end torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. Paired with the engine is the Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics. The 6L80 features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive, contributing to both performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination delivers a competent, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving and moderate towing, but it doesn’t offer the briskness of the 6.2L V8 option. The automatic transmission is programmed for smooth, comfortable shifts, prioritizing usability over sporty responsiveness. The gear ratios are optimized for towing and hauling, providing ample low-end torque. Compared to the manual transmission equipped Silverados, the automatic sacrifices some driver engagement but offers greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. The long bed configuration contributes to a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps effectively, but can make maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.3L V8 automatic was available across several Silverado trim levels, including the WT (Work Truck), LT, and RST. The base WT trim focused on functionality, offering standard features like air conditioning, a basic infotainment system, and steel wheels. The LT trim added more comfort and convenience features, such as cloth upholstery, an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, and alloy wheels. The RST trim offered a more stylish appearance with body-color accents and unique wheels. Optional extras included a trailer package, navigation system, leather upholstery, and a premium audio system. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the truck’s work-oriented nature.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV utilizes a fully boxed frame, providing a solid foundation for its body-on-frame construction. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration balances ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The rear axle ratio varied depending on the specific configuration, influencing both towing capacity and fuel economy. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive and precise handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.3L V8 automatic Silverado 1500 was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its strong towing capacity, comfortable ride, and relatively good fuel economy for a full-size pickup truck. Compared to the 4.3L V6 option, the 5.3L offered a significant boost in power and torque, making it a more capable choice for demanding tasks. However, it lagged behind the 6.2L V8 in terms of outright performance. Fuel economy figures averaged around 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway, depending on driving conditions and load. Reliability was generally good, with the EcoTec3 engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 remains a popular engine choice in the used truck market. Its proven reliability and ample power make it a desirable option for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup. While newer Silverado models offer more advanced technology and features, the fourth-generation Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 continues to represent a solid value proposition. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and transmission fluid flushes. Overall, this configuration has established itself as a dependable and long-lasting workhorse in the American truck landscape.
