The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, specifically the Double Cab configuration with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, represented a significant evolution in GMC’s full-size pickup truck offerings. 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. It sat in the mid-range of the Sierra 1500 lineup, offering a step up in power and features from the base V6 models, while remaining more accessible than the top-tier trims equipped with the larger 6.2L V8.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX, facelift 2016) Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355/380 Hp) 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) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 146.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.9 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 | 2426 kg (5348.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3447 kg (7599.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1021 kg (2250.92 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%) | 4899 kg (10800.45 lbs.) |
| Length | 5828 mm (229.45 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1876 mm (73.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 222 mm (8.74 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.3 m (46.92 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17° |
| Departure angle | 23.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | 245/70 R17; 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2016-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab with the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 and 8-speed automatic transmission was a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile and capable full-size pickup. This iteration of the Sierra benefited from a mid-cycle refresh, incorporating updated styling cues and enhanced technology. The Double Cab body style offered a useful blend of passenger space and bed length, making it suitable for both families and work-related tasks. The 5.3L engine, a mainstay of GM’s truck lineup, provided a good balance of power and fuel economy, while the 8-speed automatic contributed to improved refinement and efficiency compared to the older 6-speed transmissions.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sierra variant is the 5.3L EcoTec3 L83 V8 engine. This engine utilizes aluminum cylinder heads and a cast iron block, incorporating direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and variable valve timing to optimize performance and efficiency. The direct injection system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. Active Fuel Management allows the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, further enhancing fuel economy. The 8-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission (8L45) is a key component, offering smoother shifts and a wider gear ratio spread than previous generations. This transmission is electronically controlled and features a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved efficiency at cruising speeds. The engine is capable of running on gasoline or E85 flex fuel, with a slight power increase when using E85.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 paired with the 8-speed automatic delivers adequate power for most everyday driving situations and towing needs. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8-equipped Sierras, the 5.3L provides a respectable 355 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque. The 8-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. The gear ratios are well-suited for both highway cruising and hauling loads. Compared to earlier Sierra models with the 5.3L and a 6-speed transmission, this combination feels more refined and efficient. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, and the cylinder deactivation system is generally seamless in operation. However, some drivers may notice a slight vibration when the engine switches between V8 and V4 modes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Double Cab 5.3L Sierra 1500 typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system. Higher trim levels, such as SLE and SLT, added features like leather upholstery, heated 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 a trailering package. Interior materials varied depending on the trim level, with base models featuring cloth upholstery and plastic trim, while higher trims offered more luxurious appointments.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 IV utilizes a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS standard. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive and precise handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2016-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab 5.3L was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Sierra offered a competitive blend of features and value. The 5.3L engine was considered a good compromise between power and fuel economy, although some reviewers noted that the Ford’s EcoBoost engines offered comparable power with slightly better fuel efficiency. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and the cylinder deactivation system.
Legacy
The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 and 8-speed automatic transmission combination proved to be a durable and reliable powertrain. These trucks continue to be popular on the used car market, offering a good value for buyers seeking a capable and well-equipped full-size pickup. The L83 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. While newer trucks offer more advanced technology and features, the 2016-2018 Sierra 1500 remains a solid and dependable choice for those who need a versatile and capable workhorse.
