The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, specifically the Crew Cab Standard Box configuration with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of GMC’s full-size pickup truck. 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 V8/8-speed automatic pairing occupied a middle ground in the Sierra 1500 lineup, offering a step up in power and towing capacity from the base V6, while remaining more accessible than the range-topping 6.2L V8.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX, facelift 2016) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355/380 Hp) 8 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) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.3 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 | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3356 kg (7398.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 956 kg (2107.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1728 l (61.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4218 kg (9299.1 lbs.) |
| Length | 6067 mm (238.86 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1873 mm (73.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3886 mm (152.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1747 mm (68.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 216 mm (8.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.8 m (48.56 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×20 mm |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 variant lies the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 L83 V8 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s small-block V8 family, but incorporates several technologies aimed at improving efficiency. Key features include direct injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation (Active Fuel Management). The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and power output. Active Fuel Management enables the engine to shut down four cylinders during light-load driving conditions, such as highway cruising, to conserve fuel. The L83 produces 355 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque when running on gasoline, and these figures increase to 380 horsepower and 420 lb-ft when fueled by E85. The engine is paired with the Hydra-Matic 8L45 eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission provides a wide range of gear ratios, contributing to both improved acceleration and fuel economy. The 8-speed design allows the engine to operate in its most efficient range more often.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic combination delivers a balanced driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provides ample power for everyday driving and towing. The 8-speed transmission is generally smooth and responsive, offering quick downshifts for passing maneuvers. The gear ratios are tuned to prioritize fuel efficiency, but still provide sufficient torque for hauling and towing. Compared to manual transmission equipped Sierra 1500s, the automatic offers greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, it may feel slightly less engaging for drivers who prefer more control over gear selection. The FlexFuel capability allows owners to take advantage of potentially lower E85 fuel costs, although fuel economy typically decreases when running on E85.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Standard Box 5.3L configuration was typically offered in SLE, SLT, and Denali trim levels. The SLE trim served as the entry-level option, featuring standard amenities such as cloth upholstery, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. The SLT trim added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. The Denali trim represented the pinnacle of luxury, offering unique exterior styling, a more opulent interior, and advanced features like a head-up display and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras available across the trim levels included a sunroof, navigation system, and various safety technologies.
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 quality while maintaining a respectable payload capacity. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for most driving conditions. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes, reflecting the weight distribution of the vehicle.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2016-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic received generally positive reviews. Critics praised the engine’s balance of power and efficiency, as well as the smooth operation of the transmission. Fuel economy figures were competitive for the full-size truck segment, although not class-leading. Compared to the 4.3L V6, the 5.3L offered a noticeable increase in towing capacity and overall performance. The 6.2L V8 provided even more power, but at a higher price point and with lower fuel economy. Reliability reports suggest that the L83 engine is generally dependable, although some owners have reported issues with the Active Fuel Management system.
Legacy
The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 paired with the 8-speed automatic transmission has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain combination. These trucks remain relatively common on the used car market, offering a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a capable and comfortable full-size pickup. The L83 engine’s direct injection and cylinder deactivation technologies represent a significant step forward in engine efficiency for GM trucks. While newer Sierra 1500 models have introduced more advanced features and technologies, the 2016-2018 generation remains a popular choice for those seeking a proven and dependable workhorse.
