The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 III Regular Cab, equipped with the 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 engine producing 355 horsepower and paired with a 4WD automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s long-running full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2013 through 2016, this configuration occupied a central position within the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering a balance between capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was part of the third generation of the Silverado (and GMC Sierra), known internally as the K2HD platform, which brought substantial improvements in interior refinement, technology, and powertrain options compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 III Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 EcoTec3 (355 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| 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 (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 166.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 243.1 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| 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 | 2135 kg (4706.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1504 l (53.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 5222 mm (205.59 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1867-1882 mm (73.5 – 74.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3023 mm (119.02 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 | 245/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 5.3-liter L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine represented a significant leap forward in Chevrolet’s engine technology, featuring direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and continuously variable valve timing. Direct injection allowed for more precise fuel delivery, improving both power and efficiency. Active Fuel Management enabled the engine to switch to a four-cylinder mode during light-load conditions, further enhancing fuel economy. The engine produced 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine’s architecture is a traditional overhead valve (OHV) configuration with two valves per cylinder. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission was the standard pairing for the 5.3L EcoTec3. This transmission is known for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics. It features electronically controlled shifts and a wide gear ratio spread to optimize both acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the 6L80 automatic provided a capable and comfortable driving experience. While not as quick as the available 6.2L V8, the 5.3L offered ample power for everyday driving and towing. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were well-suited for hauling and provided smooth, predictable shifts. The 4WD system offered enhanced traction in inclement weather and off-road conditions. Compared to the manual transmission equipped Silverado 1500s, the automatic version prioritized ease of use and convenience over outright performance. The automatic transmission did slightly diminish fuel economy compared to the manual, but the difference was often considered acceptable for the added convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 4WD was typically offered in base Work Truck (WT), LT, and LTZ trim levels. The WT trim was geared towards commercial users and featured basic amenities like vinyl upholstery, steel wheels, and a simple audio system. The LT trim added features like cloth upholstery, alloy wheels, and an upgraded infotainment system. The LTZ trim represented the premium offering, with leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and additional chrome exterior trim. Standard equipment across most trims included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 III Regular Cab utilized a fully boxed frame construction for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing adequate stopping power for the truck’s weight. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The rear axle ratio varied depending on the specific configuration, influencing both towing capacity and fuel economy. The standard tire size was 245/75R16, mounted on 16-inch steel or alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 III, particularly the 5.3L V8 4WD configuration, was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and capable powertrain. Compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Silverado offered a competitive blend of features and value. The 5.3L V8 provided a good balance between power and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for buyers who needed a capable truck without the added expense of the larger 6.2L engine. Fuel economy figures averaged around 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, which were competitive for the segment at the time. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the active fuel management system.
Legacy
The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine proved to be a durable and reliable powertrain. Many examples of the 2013-2016 Silverado 1500 with this engine configuration are still on the road today, often with high mileage. The engine’s direct injection system and active fuel management technology were precursors to more advanced engine designs. In the used car market, these Silverados represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. While not the most powerful or luxurious option available, the 5.3L V8 4WD Silverado 1500 offers a solid combination of performance, reliability, and practicality.
