The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box, equipped with the 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the full-size pickup truck segment. Produced from 2018 to 2021, this variant occupied a key position in the Silverado lineup, providing a balance between capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was part of the fourth generation of the Silverado (introduced in 2018), known internally as the 1HX0 platform, which brought substantial updates to the truck’s design, materials, and technology. This configuration aimed to appeal to buyers who needed the space and versatility of a crew cab but didn’t require the higher performance or cost associated with the larger V8 engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 (285 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| 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, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 192.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 413 Nm @ 3900 rpm (304.61 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LV3 |
| Engine displacement | 4301 cm3 (262.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.6 mm (3.92 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 | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2141 kg (4720.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3084 kg (6799.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 943 kg (2078.96 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3493 kg (7700.75 lbs.) |
| Length | 5885 mm (231.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1917 mm (75.47 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 345 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360 mm |
| 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; 265/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine, designated as the LV3. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected V6, representing a departure from traditional small-block V8s. The EcoTec3 family was designed for efficiency and reduced weight. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, improving combustion efficiency and power output. The engine utilizes an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, a cost-effective and mechanically simple design. A key feature of the LV3 is its Active Fuel Management (AFM), or cylinder deactivation system, which shuts down two cylinders under light load conditions to further enhance fuel economy. The six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission is paired with the engine. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and durability. It features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive for improved highway fuel economy. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to provide a balance of acceleration and towing capability.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6 Silverado offers a noticeably different driving experience compared to its V8 siblings. While it doesn’t deliver the same level of raw power or acceleration, it provides adequate performance for everyday driving and moderate towing needs. The automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing smooth and predictable shifts. The gear ratios are optimized for both city and highway driving, but passing maneuvers at highway speeds require more planning. Compared to the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 models, the 4.3L feels less powerful, especially when fully loaded or towing a trailer. However, the lighter engine weight contributes to slightly improved handling and a more comfortable ride. The AFM system is generally seamless in operation, but some drivers may notice a slight vibration when the engine switches between V6 and V4 modes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.3L V6 was typically offered in lower to mid-range Silverado trim levels, such as the LS, LT, and RST. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies such as lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Optional extras included a larger touchscreen display, navigation, a sunroof, and various towing packages. The interior materials and finishes were generally durable and practical, reflecting the truck’s work-oriented nature.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV features a fully boxed frame, providing a solid foundation for the truck’s body. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil spring design, offering a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup, which is well-suited for carrying heavy loads. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The braking system is adequately sized for the truck’s weight and provides confident stopping power in most driving conditions. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.3L V6 Silverado was generally well-received by critics as a viable option for buyers who didn’t need the power of a V8. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, which was noticeably better than the V8 models. However, some reviewers noted that the engine felt underpowered when towing or hauling heavy loads. Compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 with its EcoBoost turbocharged engines, the Silverado’s 4.3L V6 offered less horsepower and torque. However, the Silverado’s V6 was generally considered more reliable and less complex than the turbocharged engines offered by Ford. The 4.3L Silverado offered a compelling value proposition, providing a capable and comfortable truck at a lower price point than the V8 models.
Legacy
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not without its minor issues (such as occasional oil leaks or AFM system malfunctions), the engine has generally held up well over time. In the used car market, the 4.3L Silverado represents a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. Its fuel efficiency and relatively simple design make it an attractive option for those who prioritize practicality and reliability over outright performance. The engine’s longevity and availability of parts contribute to its continued appeal in the used truck market.
