The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 6.2 EcoTec3 V8 engine producing 420 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s long-running full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2018 to 2021, this variant occupied a premium position within the fourth generation (2016-2022) Silverado 1500 lineup, catering to buyers seeking substantial power and towing capacity combined with the practicality of a crew cab configuration. This model year saw substantial updates to the Silverado, focusing on improved efficiency and technology, while maintaining the rugged dependability expected of a Chevrolet truck.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.2 EcoTec3 V8 (420 Hp) 4WD Automatic DFM |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 185.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 275.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 420 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 623 Nm @ 4100 rpm (459.5 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L87 |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm (4.06 in) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT DI |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt, 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.6 l (13.31 US qt, 11.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2263 kg (4989.06 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 3311 kg (7299.51 lbs) |
| Max load | 1048 kg (2310.44 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal, 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5398 kg (11900.55 lbs) |
| Length | 6127 mm (241.22 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in) |
| Height | 1915 mm (75.39 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3987 mm (156.97 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×20 mm |
| Tires size | 255/70 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2018-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab with the 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 and four-wheel drive represented a sweet spot for many truck buyers. Positioned as a higher-trim option, it offered a significant step up in performance from the base V6 and the 5.3L V8, while remaining more accessible than the diesel offerings. The “DFM” designation likely refers to a specific dealer or regional package, potentially including additional features or accessories. This generation Silverado aimed to balance traditional truck values – capability, durability – with modern amenities and improved fuel efficiency. It competed directly with the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and GMC Sierra.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado variant lies the L87 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s EcoTec3 family, known for its direct injection, cylinder deactivation, and variable valve timing (VVT) technologies. Direct injection optimizes combustion efficiency and power output, while cylinder deactivation allows the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, improving fuel economy. The VVT system adjusts valve timing to optimize performance across the engine’s RPM range. The engine produces 420 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 460 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. This power is channeled through a sophisticated 10-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a significant upgrade from the previous 8-speed unit. The 10-speed transmission provides closer gear ratios, enhancing both acceleration and fuel efficiency. The engine is longitudinally mounted in a body-on-frame configuration, delivering power to all four wheels via a part-time four-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 6.2L V8 and the 10-speed automatic transmission delivers a compelling driving experience. Acceleration is brisk, making it well-suited for both daily driving and towing. The 10-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive shifts and minimizing turbo lag. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 6.2L offers noticeably more power and torque, resulting in improved towing and hauling capabilities. While not as fuel-efficient as the smaller engines or the diesel option, the cylinder deactivation technology helps mitigate fuel consumption during highway cruising. The four-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various conditions, making it a capable off-road vehicle. The ride quality, typical of a full-size truck, is firm but generally comfortable, especially with the Crew Cab’s longer wheelbase.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 1500 IV Crew Cab Standard Box 6.2L was typically offered in LTZ or High Country trim levels. Standard features generally included a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, keyless entry, and a comfortable interior with cloth or leather upholstery. Higher trims added features such as heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, a power-adjustable steering column, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a sunroof, a navigation system, and a trailering package. The interior design, while functional, was often criticized for its use of hard plastics in certain areas.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 IV utilizes a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension features independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a leaf spring setup. This configuration is optimized for load-carrying capacity and towing. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel. Wheel sizes typically ranged from 17 to 18 inches, depending on the trim level.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.2L V8-equipped Silverado 1500 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, and capable towing capacity. However, some reviewers noted that the interior quality didn’t quite match that of its competitors, particularly the Ram 1500. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size truck. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 6.2L offered a significant performance boost, but at a higher price point. The diesel option provided even greater towing capacity and fuel efficiency, but came with a substantial premium. The 6.2L struck a balance between performance, capability, and cost, making it a popular choice for buyers who needed a powerful truck without the expense of a diesel.
Legacy
The L87 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 has proven to be a relatively reliable engine, with few widespread issues reported. The 10-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. In the used car market, these Silverado 1500s hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition with low mileage. They remain a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and dependable full-size truck. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain. The combination of power, capability, and relative reliability has cemented the 2018-2021 Silverado 1500 6.2L as a solid performer in the full-size truck segment.
