The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, in its third generation and specifically the 2016 facelift, represented a significant evolution of Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck. Produced from 2016 to 2018, the Double Cab Standard Box configuration with the 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 engine and six-speed automatic transmission was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of capability, comfort, and value. This variant occupied a middle ground in the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering more power and towing capacity than the base V6 models, but at a lower price point than the range-topping 6.2L V8 options. It was a mainstay in the American truck market, competing directly with the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III (facelift 2016) Double Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 EcoTec3 (355 Hp) Automatic 6-speed |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 157.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L83 |
| Engine displacement | 5326 cm3 (325.01 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15.7 l (16.59 US qt | 13.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2260 kg (4982.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 915 kg (2017.23 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1727 l (60.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2540 kg (5599.74 lbs.) |
| Length | 5843 mm (230.04 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1876 mm (73.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1748 mm (68.82 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 215 mm (8.46 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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; 275/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 9J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 5.3L L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (AFM), a cylinder deactivation system designed to improve fuel economy by shutting down four cylinders during light-load driving. The L83 boasts aluminum cylinder heads and a cast iron block, contributing to its durability. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission (6L80-E) was a robust unit known for its smooth shifting and reliability. It was calibrated to provide adequate acceleration and towing capability while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency. The transmission featured electronically controlled shifting and a tow/haul mode for optimized performance when towing trailers.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and six-speed automatic combination delivered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8 models, the 5.3L provided ample power for everyday driving and hauling. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were well-suited for both city and highway driving, offering smooth transitions and responsive acceleration. The AFM system was generally seamless in operation, though some drivers reported a slight vibration when transitioning between V8 and V4 modes. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. The Silverado’s suspension, tuned for comfort and load-carrying capacity, provided a relatively smooth ride, even when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Double Cab Standard Box 5.3L configuration was typically offered in LT and LTZ 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 LTZ trim added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and additional chrome exterior trim. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the LT and leather on the LTZ. Dashboard configurations were similar across trims, with a focus on functionality and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 utilized a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the vehicle. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This configuration allowed for a comfortable ride and good load-carrying capacity. Brakes were ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The steering system was an electric power rack-and-pinion setup, offering precise steering feel and reduced driver effort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and six-speed automatic was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong towing capability. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, with the AFM system helping to improve efficiency. Compared to the 4.3L V6 models, the 5.3L offered a significant boost in power and towing capacity. Compared to the 6.2L V8 models, it provided a more affordable entry point into the Silverado lineup. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the AFM system and oil consumption.
Legacy
The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant, and many examples are still on the road today. The 6L80-E automatic transmission also has a reputation for longevity. In the used car market, these Silverado 1500s represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and comfortable full-size pickup truck. While newer Silverado models offer more advanced technology and features, the 2016-2018 variants remain a popular choice for those who appreciate a proven and dependable truck.
