The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, specifically the Crew Cab Standard Box configuration with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration of GMC’s full-size pickup truck. Produced from 2016 to 2018 as part of the GMTK2XX platform’s facelift, this variant aimed to balance capability, comfort, and efficiency within the highly competitive American truck market. This model year saw updates to the exterior styling, interior features, and technology, building upon the foundation laid by the previous generation. 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) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355/380 Hp) 4WD 8 Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 141.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 206.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 380 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 71.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 564 Nm @ 4100 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L83 |
| 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.8 l (15.64 US qt | 13.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2514 kg (5542.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3447 kg (7599.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 933 kg (2056.91 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%) | 4999 kg (11020.91 lbs.) |
| Length | 6067 mm (238.86 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3886 mm (152.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 227 mm (8.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.8 m (48.56 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.5° |
| Departure angle | 23° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | 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, 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 | 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 variant lies the 5.3-liter L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injection powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy. The L83 utilizes a robust cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The direct injection system, coupled with a relatively high 11:1 compression ratio, contributes to both power and efficiency. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while a more traditional design, is known for its durability and simplicity. The 8-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was a key upgrade for this generation, offering smoother shifts and improved fuel efficiency compared to the previous 6-speed unit. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for both towing and everyday driving, providing adequate acceleration and maintaining reasonable engine speeds at highway velocities. The FlexFuel capability allows the engine to run on gasoline or a blend of up to 85% ethanol, offering drivers a choice based on fuel availability and price.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the 8-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8 option, the 355 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for daily driving and towing. The automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although some drivers have noted occasional hunting for the right gear, particularly during highway cruising. The four-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various conditions, making it suitable for both on-road and light off-road use. Compared to manual transmission equipped Sierras, the automatic offers convenience but sacrifices some driver engagement and potentially a slight reduction in fuel economy. The weight of the Crew Cab configuration and the 4WD system do impact acceleration, but the engine’s torque output helps to mitigate this.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sierra 1500 IV in this configuration typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. The Crew Cab body style offered spacious seating for five passengers. Higher trim levels, such as the SLT and Denali, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages. Interior upholstery generally consisted of cloth in base models, with leather available on higher trims. Dashboard configurations varied depending on the trim level, with higher trims featuring more premium materials and finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 IV utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension features independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration is designed to handle heavy loads and provide a comfortable ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The rear leaf spring suspension, while effective for load-carrying, can sometimes result in a slightly less refined ride compared to independent rear suspension systems found in some competing trucks.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2016-2018 GMC Sierra 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 interior, and capable towing capacity. Fuel economy was considered adequate for a full-size truck, although not class-leading. Compared to the 6.2L V8 models, the 5.3L offered a more affordable entry point with a reasonable trade-off in performance. The 5.3L also proved to be more reliable than some of the earlier EcoTec3 engines, with fewer reports of oil consumption issues. Compared to diesel-powered versions, the 5.3L offered lower upfront cost but less torque and potentially lower fuel economy when towing heavy loads.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 paired with the 8-speed automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. These engines are known for their durability and longevity, provided they are properly maintained. In the used car market, this Sierra 1500 configuration represents a good value proposition, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and affordability. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and spark plug replacements. While some owners have reported minor issues with the Active Fuel Management system, these are generally not major concerns. Overall, this variant of the GMC Sierra 1500 remains a popular choice for those seeking a capable and dependable full-size pickup truck.
