The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, specifically the Crew Cab Short Box configuration with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2016 to 2018 as part of the GMTK2XX platform’s facelift, this variant aimed to balance capability, comfort, and efficiency within the highly competitive American truck market. This model year saw updates to the exterior styling, interior features, and technology, building upon the foundation laid by the previous generation. The 5.3L V8/automatic pairing was a mainstay of the Sierra 1500 lineup, positioned as a strong mid-range option appealing to buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without the premium price tag of the larger 6.2L engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX, facelift 2016) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355/380 Hp) Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| 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) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 151.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 380 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 71.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 564 Nm @ 4100 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L83 |
| Engine displacement | 5328 cm3 (325.13 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 | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.8 l (15.64 US qt | 13.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 825 kg (1818.81 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1512 l (53.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2903 kg (6400.02 lbs.) |
| Length | 5825 mm (229.33 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1884 mm (74.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1747 mm (68.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 222 mm (8.74 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.4 m (47.24 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.2° |
| Departure angle | 23.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.2° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | 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, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17; 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 variant lies the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 L83 V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy under light load conditions. The L83 utilizes a robust cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. The direct injection system, coupled with a variable valve timing system, optimizes combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. When running on E85 fuel, output increases to 380 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifting and reliability. This transmission was specifically tuned to complement the characteristics of the 5.3L V8, providing adequate gear ratios for both towing and everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the six-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L variant, the 5.3L provides ample power for most tasks, including towing trailers and hauling heavy loads. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, although it may occasionally hunt for the right gear when accelerating quickly. The gear ratios are well-suited for highway cruising, maintaining a relatively low engine speed at 70-75 mph. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a traditional truck feel, and the available four-wheel-drive system enhances traction in inclement weather or off-road conditions. Compared to manual transmission equipped Sierras, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L Automatic Sierra 1500 typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system. Higher trim levels, such as the SLT and Denali, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages. Interior upholstery ranged from cloth on base models to leather on higher trims. Dashboard configurations varied depending on the trim level, with higher trims featuring larger touchscreens and more sophisticated instrumentation.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 IV utilizes a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride while maintaining a respectable payload capacity. Brakes are ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS standard. The braking system is adequately sized for the truck’s weight and provides confident stopping power. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, offering a responsive and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.3L V8/automatic Sierra 1500 was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its balance of power, fuel economy, and capability. Fuel economy figures averaged around 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, which were competitive for a full-size pickup truck at the time. Compared to the 4.3L V6, the 5.3L offered significantly more power and towing capacity. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L was more affordable and offered slightly better fuel economy, although it lacked the ultimate performance of the larger engine. Reliability was generally good, with the EcoTec3 engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 paired with the six-speed automatic transmission has proven to be a reliable and long-lasting powertrain. These engines are still commonly found on the used car market today, and with proper maintenance, they can provide many years of service. While some owners have reported issues with oil consumption, these problems are often addressed with updated PCV valves and other minor repairs. The GMTK2XX Sierra 1500, particularly the 5.3L variant, remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck.
