The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab 2.7 Turbo 4WD Automatic, produced from 2018 to 2021, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s long-running full-size pickup truck lineage. Falling within the fourth generation (2016-2023) of the Silverado 1500, this variant offered a compelling blend of capability, technology, and efficiency, aimed at buyers seeking a versatile truck for both work and personal use. It occupied a mid-range position in the Silverado 1500 lineup, slotting below the larger displacement V8 engines but offering a more economical alternative without sacrificing substantial towing and hauling capacity. This model was primarily targeted at the North American market, where full-size pickups are consistently best-sellers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 Turbo (310 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 473 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (348.87 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L3B |
| Engine displacement | 2727 cm3 (166.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.25 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT DI |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.8 l (12.47 US qt | 10.38 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2241 kg (4940.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 934 kg (2059.12 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4127 kg (9098.48 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) |
| 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 |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| 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
The heart of this Silverado variant is the GM L3B 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, introduced in 2018, represented a departure from the traditional V6 and V8 options typically found in full-size trucks. The L3B utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver 310 horsepower and 473 lb-ft of torque. The engine features a cast aluminum block and head, contributing to weight savings. Variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust valves optimizes performance and efficiency across the engine’s operating range. The engine is paired with an eight-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifting and wide gear ratio spread. This transmission was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s torque curve, providing responsive acceleration and efficient cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7-liter turbo engine provides a surprisingly capable driving experience in the Silverado 1500. While not offering the raw power of the larger V8s, the turbocharger provides ample low-end torque, making it well-suited for everyday driving and towing. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in brisk acceleration. Compared to the 4.3L V6 or the 5.3L V8, the 2.7T offers a more refined and responsive feel, particularly during initial acceleration. However, under heavy load or when climbing steep grades, the engine may feel less powerful than its larger displacement counterparts. The gear ratios in the Hydra-Matic transmission are well-spaced, contributing to both fuel efficiency and towing performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7 Turbo engine was available across several Silverado 1500 trim levels, including the LS, LT, RST, and LTZ. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The Double Cab configuration offered a spacious interior with seating for five passengers and a rear-seat folding bench for added cargo flexibility. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and various appearance packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil-spring design, 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, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The 4WD system utilizes an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.7-liter turbo engine received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, smooth power delivery, and surprisingly strong towing capacity. Compared to the V6 and V8 options, the 2.7T offered a more competitive fuel economy figure, making it an attractive option for buyers who prioritize efficiency. However, some critics noted that the engine’s performance could feel strained when pushed to its limits. In terms of reliability, the L3B engine has proven to be relatively dependable, although some owners have reported issues with oil consumption. Overall, the 2.7 Turbo Silverado 1500 offered a compelling value proposition, providing a good balance of capability, efficiency, and features.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Double Cab 2.7 Turbo 4WD Automatic has established itself as a solid and reliable option in the used truck market. Its fuel efficiency and capable performance make it a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile pickup truck. The L3B engine, while not as ubiquitous as the traditional V8s, has proven to be a durable and dependable powerplant. As these trucks age, regular maintenance and attention to potential oil consumption issues are crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. The 2.7T Silverado represents a significant step forward in Chevrolet’s efforts to offer more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced pickup trucks.
