The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, specifically the Regular Cab Standard Box configuration with the 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 engine and automatic transmission, was a mainstay of GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineup from 2016 to 2018. This variant represented a work-focused, value-oriented offering within the fourth generation (GMTK2XX) Sierra 1500 series, which received a significant facelift in 2016. Positioned as an entry-level option, it catered to buyers prioritizing capability and affordability over luxury features. The FlexFuel capability added versatility, allowing operation on gasoline or ethanol blends up to E85.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX, facelift 2016) Regular Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 (285/297 Hp) Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.3 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 297 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 69.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 413 Nm @ 3900 rpm (304.61 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 447 Nm @ 3900 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LV3 |
| Engine displacement | 4300 cm3 (262.4 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 | 14 l (14.79 US qt | 12.32 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2049 kg (4517.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2948 kg (6499.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 899 kg (1981.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1728 l (61.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2721 kg (5998.78 lbs.) |
| Length | 5206 mm (204.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1879 mm (73.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3023 mm (119.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1747 mm (68.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 209 mm (8.23 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14.5° |
| Departure angle | 25.0° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 24.4° |
| 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, 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 | 245/70 R17; 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sierra 1500 variant is the 4.3L (262.4 cubic inch) EcoTec3 V6 engine, designated as the LV3. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injection powerplant featuring a 11:1 compression ratio and an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain. The EcoTec3 family was designed for efficiency and durability, incorporating features like active fuel management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy during light-load driving. The direct injection system precisely meters fuel into the cylinders, enhancing combustion efficiency and power output. The engine produces 285 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm. When running on E85 fuel, output increases slightly to 297 horsepower. The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, chosen for its durability and suitability for truck applications. This transmission provides smooth shifting and adequate gear ratios for both towing and everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6 and six-speed automatic combination in the Sierra 1500 Regular Cab delivered adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was sufficient for typical pickup truck duties, but it lagged behind the performance of the available 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engines. The automatic transmission was tuned for smooth operation and fuel efficiency, prioritizing usability over sporty responsiveness. The gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, providing ample low-end torque. Compared to manual transmission equipped Sierras, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic, but at the expense of some driver control and fuel economy. The FlexFuel capability provided a slight performance boost when using E85, but also resulted in reduced fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Standard Box 4.3L Sierra 1500 typically came with a relatively basic set of standard features. Interior appointments included cloth upholstery, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and air conditioning. Power windows and locks were often standard, but higher-end features like leather seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies were typically optional or reserved for higher trim levels. Exterior features included steel wheels, black door handles and mirrors, and a standard bed liner. Optional extras included upgraded wheels, chrome exterior trim, a trailer hitch, and various convenience packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500’s chassis featured an independent coil spring front suspension and a traditional rigid axle with leaf spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality and good load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. The steering system utilized a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive handling and ease of maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.3L Sierra 1500 was generally well-received as a capable and affordable work truck. Critics praised its fuel efficiency compared to the larger V8 engines, and its durability. However, some reviewers noted its lack of refinement and relatively modest performance. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L offered significantly lower horsepower and torque, making it less suitable for heavy towing or demanding tasks. The 1.8L offered a better fuel economy than the V8 options, making it a popular choice for fleet buyers and individuals who prioritized cost savings.
Legacy
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 proved to be a reliable and durable engine, with many examples still on the road today. While not known for exceptional performance, it offered a good balance of capability, efficiency, and affordability. In the used car market, these Sierra 1500s represent a value-oriented option for buyers seeking a capable pickup truck without the higher price tag of the V8 models. Maintenance is generally straightforward and parts availability is good, contributing to its continued popularity among budget-conscious truck buyers.
