The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, in its third generation and specifically the 2016 facelift, represented a significant evolution of Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck. The Double Cab Standard Box configuration with the 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of capability, comfort, and efficiency. Produced from 2016 to 2018, this variant occupied a key position in the Silverado lineup, offering a step up in power and refinement from the base V6 models while remaining more accessible than the top-tier trims equipped with the 6.2L V8. This model year saw updates to the exterior styling, interior materials, and technology features, solidifying the Silverado’s position as a competitive force in the North American truck market.
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 8-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, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| 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 | 3357 kg (7400.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1097 kg (2418.47 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%) | 5035 kg (11100.27 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 | 8 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 represents a significant departure from earlier Chevrolet small-block designs, incorporating features like direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and continuously variable valve timing (VVT). Direct injection allows for more precise fuel delivery, improving both power and fuel economy. Active Fuel Management enables the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, further enhancing efficiency. The L83 produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine’s aluminum cylinder heads and block contribute to weight reduction. Paired with this engine is an 8-speed automatic transmission (8L45-E), a crucial component in maximizing the engine’s efficiency and providing smooth, responsive shifting. This transmission offered closer gear ratios compared to older 6-speed automatics, improving acceleration and towing performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic combination delivers a capable and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly powerful as the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provides ample torque for everyday driving and towing. The 8-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in brisk acceleration. The automatic transmission is tuned for smooth shifts, prioritizing comfort over aggressive performance. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, the manual transmission provides more driver control and potentially slightly better fuel economy. The Silverado’s suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, even when carrying a load, but it doesn’t offer the same level of sporty handling as some lighter-duty trucks.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Double Cab Standard Box 5.3L Automatic Silverado typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Higher trim levels, such as LT and LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and various towing packages. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims and leather on higher trims. Dashboard configurations varied depending on the trim level, with higher trims featuring more premium materials and finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The suspension consists of independent front suspension with coil springs and a multi-leaf rear suspension. Rear brakes on the standard box models were typically discs, offering improved stopping power compared to earlier drum brake setups. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power steering, providing a responsive and comfortable steering feel. The chassis is designed to handle substantial payloads and towing loads, with a maximum towing capacity of over 11,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and capable towing performance. Fuel economy was considered competitive for a full-size truck, although not class-leading. 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, the 5.3L was more affordable and offered slightly better fuel economy. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the active fuel management system.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with many examples exceeding 150,000 miles with proper maintenance. The 8-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. 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 power, efficiency, and comfort makes this a well-rounded and practical option for both work and personal use.
