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 Regular 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 (4WD) system. This particular variant occupied the entry-level position within the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering a balance of capability and affordability for buyers prioritizing work and utility over outright performance or luxury.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III (facelift 2016) Regular 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 | 2-3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| 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 | 7.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.4 Hp/l |
| 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 | 2172 kg (4788.44 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 3039 kg (6699.85 lbs) |
| Max load | 867 kg (1911.41 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%) | 3447 kg (7599.33 lbs) |
| Length | 5221 mm (205.55 in) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in) |
| Height | 1883 mm (74.13 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3023 mm (119.02 in) |
| Front track | 1748 mm (68.82 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1717 mm (67.6 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2016-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Regular Cab Standard Box with the 4.3L V6 and 4WD represented a work-focused offering within the broader Silverado range. Positioned below the more popular 5.3L V8 and 6.2L V8 options, it catered to buyers who needed a capable truck for hauling and towing, but didn’t require the extra power or refinement of the larger engines. The facelifted Silverado brought a more refined interior and exterior appearance, along with updated technology features, enhancing its appeal in a competitive full-size truck market. This configuration was primarily sold in North America, where full-size pickups are exceptionally popular.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado variant lies the 4.3L (262 cubic inch) EcoTec3 V6 engine, designated as the LV3. This engine is a naturally aspirated, aluminum-block V6 featuring direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VVT), and cylinder deactivation. The direct injection system optimizes fuel delivery for improved efficiency and power, while VVT adjusts valve timing to enhance performance across the engine’s operating range. Cylinder deactivation allows the engine to operate on fewer cylinders during light-load conditions, further improving fuel economy. 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-E) known for its durability and smooth shifting. This transmission was a common pairing for the 4.3L V6 and provided adequate gear ratios for both everyday driving and towing. 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 offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to its V8 siblings. While it provided sufficient power for most everyday tasks, it lacked the immediate acceleration and effortless towing capability of the larger engines. The six-speed automatic transmission did a reasonable job of keeping the engine in its optimal power band, but downshifts were sometimes necessary when climbing hills or carrying heavy loads. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel efficiency and usability, rather than outright performance. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Silverado, the automatic offered convenience but sacrificed some driver control and potentially fuel economy. The 4WD system provided enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Standard Box 4.3L 4WD Silverado typically came standard with basic features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen. Interior upholstery was typically vinyl or cloth. Optional extras included features like upgraded infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a trailering package, and various convenience features like remote keyless entry. The trim level often dictated the level of standard equipment, with higher trims offering more luxurious interior appointments and additional features.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 featured a fully boxed frame construction, providing a solid foundation for its body-on-frame design. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. The rear brakes on this configuration were typically disc brakes, a step up from the drum brakes found on some lower trims. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive and precise handling. The standard tire size was typically 255/70R17 or 265/70R17, depending on the specific trim level.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally viewed the 4.3L V6 Silverado as a competent but unremarkable offering. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, which was noticeably better than the V8 models, but criticized for its lack of power, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L offered a lower price point but significantly less performance. The 4.3L was often seen as a good choice for buyers who primarily used their trucks for light-duty tasks and prioritized fuel economy over power. Reliability reports generally indicated that the 4.3L EcoTec3 engine was a relatively reliable powertrain, although some owners reported issues with oil consumption.
Legacy
The 4.3L V6 EcoTec3 engine proved to be a durable and relatively fuel-efficient option in the Silverado 1500 lineup. While it didn’t achieve the same level of popularity as the V8 engines, it provided a viable alternative for buyers seeking a more affordable and economical full-size truck. In the used car market, these Silverado variants typically command lower prices than their V8 counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The powertrain’s long-term reliability has generally been good, although regular maintenance, including oil changes, is crucial to prevent issues like oil consumption. The 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 with the 4.3L V6 remains a capable and practical truck for a variety of tasks.
