The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and paired with a 4WD SRW Automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2015 to 2019, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 3500HD lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and affordability for buyers needing serious towing and hauling capacity. It was part of the third generation of the K2XX platform, known for its enhanced strength and refinement compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 118.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 4200 rpm, 379.84 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Vortec L96 |
| Engine displacement | 5967 cm3, 364.13 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm, 4 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm, 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 16.1 l, 17.01 US qt | 14.17 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 3045 kg, 6713.08 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4899 kg, 10800.45 lbs. |
| Max load | 1854 kg, 4087.37 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1728 l, 61.02 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5897 kg, 13000.66 lbs. |
| Length | 6083 mm, 239.49 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2045 mm, 80.51 in. |
| Height | 1985 mm, 78.15 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3904 mm, 153.7 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 214 mm, 8.43 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 15.8 m, 51.84 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 355×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 373×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 235/80 R17; 265/70 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2015-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD Crew Cab with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission was a mainstay of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck offerings. Positioned as a mid-range option, it slotted between the base 6.6L Duramax diesel and the more powerful 8.1L gasoline V8. This configuration appealed to buyers who needed substantial towing and payload capacity but didn’t require the expense or complexity of a diesel engine. The K2XX platform, introduced in 2014, provided a stiffer frame and improved ride quality compared to previous generations, making it a more comfortable daily driver while maintaining its workhorse capabilities. The Crew Cab configuration offered ample passenger space, making it suitable for both work and family use.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500HD variant lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s small-block V8 family, known for its durability and relatively simple design. It features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. The L96 utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each cylinder for efficient combustion. The engine employs an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and fuel economy across a wider range of engine speeds. The Hydra-Matic 6L90E six-speed automatic transmission was the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission is known for its robustness and smooth shifting characteristics. It features electronically controlled shifting and a tow/haul mode that optimizes shift points for towing and hauling heavy loads. The transmission’s gear ratios are tailored to maximize the engine’s torque output, providing strong acceleration and pulling power.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6L90E automatic combination delivered a capable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. While not as quick as lighter-duty trucks or those equipped with the larger 8.1L V8, the Silverado 3500HD offered ample power for everyday driving and demanding tasks. The automatic transmission provided smooth and predictable shifts, and the tow/haul mode significantly improved performance when towing. The weight of the truck and the conservative tuning of the engine meant that acceleration was moderate, but the engine’s strong low-end torque made it well-suited for hauling heavy loads. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, it did result in a slight reduction in fuel economy. The 6L90E’s gear ratios were optimized for towing, meaning that highway cruising RPMs were slightly higher than in some other trucks.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500HD offered a range of trim levels, with the 6.0L V8/automatic combination available on most. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as LT and LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, navigation, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a trailer brake controller, a fifth-wheel hitch, and various appearance packages. The Crew Cab configuration provided generous interior space, with comfortable seating for five passengers. The standard box length offered a good balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability.
Chassis & Braking
The K2XX platform featured a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone control arms, offering a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The front brakes measured 355x40mm, while the rear brakes were slightly smaller at 373x34mm. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The truck’s robust chassis and braking system were designed to handle the demands of heavy towing and hauling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500HD with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its strong towing and hauling capabilities, comfortable ride, and relatively affordable price. Compared to the diesel-powered Silverado 3500HD, the 6.0L V8 offered a lower initial cost and simpler maintenance requirements. However, it lacked the diesel’s superior torque and fuel economy. Compared to the 8.1L V8, the 6.0L offered a better balance of power and fuel efficiency. Fuel economy was typical for a heavy-duty truck, averaging around 13-16 mpg in mixed driving. Reliability was generally good, with the Vortec L96 engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice in the used truck market today. Its combination of capability, comfort, and affordability makes it a compelling option for buyers needing a heavy-duty truck for work or recreation. The Vortec L96 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, these trucks can provide many years of reliable service. While newer Silverado 3500HD models offer more advanced features and technologies, the 2015-2019 generation represents a solid and dependable workhorse that continues to hold its value.
