The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, in its third generation and specifically the 2016 facelift, represented a significant evolution of Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck. The Regular Cab Standard Box configuration with the 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 engine and automatic transmission was a mainstay of the lineup from 2016 to 2018. This variant aimed to provide a balance of capability, affordability, and everyday usability for buyers needing a workhorse truck without the added expense of higher trim levels or extended cab configurations. It served as a popular choice for fleet buyers, farmers, and individuals prioritizing function over luxury.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III (facelift 2016) Regular Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 EcoTec3 (355 Hp) 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) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 173.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 253.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L83 |
| Engine displacement | 5326 cm3 (325.01 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 | VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15.7 l (16.59 US qt | 13.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2048 kg (4515.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2994 kg (6600.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 946 kg (2085.57 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%) | 3130 kg (6900.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5221 mm (205.55 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1879 mm (73.98 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) | 209 mm (8.23 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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, powered by the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 and paired with an automatic transmission, occupied a crucial position in Chevrolet’s truck lineup. Following the mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation Silverado (introduced in 2014), this configuration offered a practical and capable solution for buyers who didn’t require the added space of an extended or crew cab. It was built on the GMT-900 platform, known for its robust frame and focus on work-truck functionality. This particular trim level was positioned as a step up from the base model, offering a more powerful engine without the premium price tag of the LTZ or High Country trims.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado variant lies the 5.3L L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (AFM), a cylinder deactivation system designed to improve fuel economy during light-load driving. The L83 produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The direct injection system, combined with variable valve timing (VVT), contributes to both power and efficiency. The engine’s aluminum cylinder heads and cast iron block provide a balance of weight savings and durability. The standard transmission was a six-speed automatic (6L80-E), chosen for its reliability and ability to handle the engine’s torque output. This transmission featured electronically controlled shifting and overdrive for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 1500 5.3L Automatic offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8 equipped models, the 5.3L provided ample power for everyday tasks, towing, and hauling. The six-speed automatic transmission was generally smooth-shifting, although some drivers noted a slight hesitation during downshifts. The gear ratios were optimized for both towing and fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. The Regular Cab configuration, while offering limited passenger space, provided excellent maneuverability in tight spaces. The truck’s suspension, tuned for a balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity, absorbed bumps reasonably well, even when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2016-2018 Silverado 1500 Regular Cab Standard Box 5.3L Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and steel wheels. Higher sub-trims, like the LT, added features like upgraded cloth upholstery, a better audio system, and keyless entry. Optional extras included a trailer hitch, upgraded wheels, a navigation system, and various convenience packages. The interior was functional and durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500’s chassis featured a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The front suspension consisted of independent coil-over-shock struts, while the rear suspension utilized leaf springs. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs up front and discs in the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The standard tire size was 255/70R17 or 265/70R17, depending on the wheel package. The truck’s steering system employed a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive and precise handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 5.3L Automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its strong engine, comfortable ride, and capable towing capacity. However, some reviewers noted that the interior felt dated compared to some of its competitors, such as the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. In terms of fuel economy, the 5.3L EcoTec3 offered competitive numbers for a full-size V8 pickup, particularly when equipped with Active Fuel Management. Compared to the 4.3L V6 Silverado, the 5.3L provided a significant boost in power and towing capacity. Compared to the 6.2L V8, it offered a more affordable price point and slightly better fuel economy.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 engine, paired with the 6L80-E automatic transmission, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some owners have reported issues with AFM-related oil consumption, these problems are not widespread and can often be mitigated with regular maintenance. Today, these Silverado 1500s are readily available on the used car market at affordable prices. They continue to be popular choices for buyers seeking a capable and dependable work truck. Their robust construction and proven powertrain ensure that they remain a viable option for years to come, making them a lasting presence in the American automotive landscape.
