The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, a full-size pickup truck, has been a mainstay of the American automotive landscape for decades. The third generation, produced from 2014 to 2018, received a significant facelift in 2016, bringing updated styling and technology. This article focuses on the 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 Double Cab Standard Box configuration equipped with the 4.3L V6 EcoTec3 engine producing 285 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system. This particular variant occupied a middle ground in the Silverado lineup, offering a balance of capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability, appealing to buyers who didn’t require the higher towing capacity of the larger V8 engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III (facelift 2016) Double Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 4.3 V6 EcoTec3 (285 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| 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) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Torque | 414 Nm @ 3900 rpm (305.35 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LV3 |
| Engine displacement | 4293 cm3 (261.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| 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 | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 15.1 l (15.96 US qt | 13.29 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2373 kg (5231.57 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 3221 kg (7101.09 lbs) |
| Max load | 848 kg (1869.52 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%) | 3221 kg (7101.09 lbs) |
| Length | 5843 mm (230.04 in) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in) |
| Height | 1877 mm (73.9 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) | 225 mm (8.86 in) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2016-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab Standard Box with the 4.3L V6 EcoTec3 engine and 4WD automatic transmission represented a compelling option for truck buyers seeking a versatile and capable vehicle. Positioned within the broader Silverado 1500 range, which included 5.3L and 6.2L V8 options, this configuration aimed for a sweet spot between performance and efficiency. The facelifted Silverado brought a more refined exterior design, an updated interior, and enhanced technology features, solidifying its position in the highly competitive full-size pickup truck segment. The Double Cab configuration offered increased passenger space compared to the Regular Cab, while the Standard Box provided a practical cargo bed length for everyday use.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 4.3L (261.97 cubic inches) EcoTec3 V6 engine, designated with the engine code LV3. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 90-degree V6 featuring direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VVT), and aluminum cylinder heads. The direct injection system optimizes fuel delivery for improved efficiency and power output. The EcoTec3 family of engines was designed with efficiency in mind, utilizing features like active fuel management (cylinder deactivation) to further reduce fuel consumption during light-load driving conditions. The engine produces 285 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 305 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm.
The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission (6L80) known for its smooth shifting and durability. This transmission was a common pairing for both the 4.3L V6 and the 5.3L V8 in the Silverado lineup. The 4WD system is a traditional part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6-powered Silverado 1500 delivers adequate performance for most everyday driving scenarios. While it doesn’t offer the same level of acceleration or towing capacity as the V8 models, it provides sufficient power for hauling moderate loads and navigating city streets and highways. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and predictable shifts. The gear ratios are optimized for both fuel efficiency and usable power. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other Silverado trims, the automatic provides a more relaxed and convenient driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, drivers seeking more spirited performance or greater control might find the automatic transmission less engaging than a manual.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 Double Cab Standard Box 4.3L V6 4WD was typically offered in LT and RST trim levels. The LT trim generally included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a USB port. The RST trim added more styling enhancements, such as a unique grille and wheels. Optional extras included a larger touchscreen display, a premium audio system, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a sunroof, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision alert.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 utilizes a fully boxed frame for enhanced strength and rigidity. The suspension system consists of independent front suspension with coil springs and a multi-leaf rear suspension. The rear brakes on this configuration are typically disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The front brakes are ventilated discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard equipment. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering responsive and precise handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Silverado 1500 for its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and user-friendly technology. The 4.3L V6 engine was considered a capable option for buyers who didn’t require the extra power of the V8s. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 4.3L V6 offering better gas mileage than the larger engines. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L V6 provided a more affordable entry point into the Silverado lineup, but at the expense of some towing capacity and acceleration. The 4.3L also generally required less frequent and less expensive maintenance than the V8 engines.
Legacy
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some owners have reported minor issues with oil consumption, the engine is generally considered durable and long-lasting. On the used car market, the 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 Double Cab Standard Box 4.3L V6 4WD remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. Its balance of features, fuel efficiency, and reliability makes it a compelling option in its price range. The availability of parts and service is excellent, ensuring that these trucks can be maintained and enjoyed for many years to come.
