The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, specifically the Regular Cab Long Box configuration with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V6 engine and four-wheel drive, 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 with efficiency and affordability within the Sierra 1500 range. It served as a work-focused option, appealing to buyers needing a robust truck without the added cost and complexity of higher trim levels or extended cab configurations. This model year saw updates to the exterior styling, interior features, and technology compared to earlier GMTK2XX models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX, facelift 2016) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V6 (355/380 Hp) 4WD Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| 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 | 6.5 kg/Hp, 153.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 225.1 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 | 2306 kg (5083.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 869 kg (1915.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 2162 l (76.35 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 128 l (33.81 US gal | 28.16 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2948 kg (6499.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 5701 mm (224.45 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3378 mm (132.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 223 mm (8.78 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.4 m (43.96 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.5° |
| Departure angle | 23.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21.3° |
| 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 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 L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy. The L83 utilizes a robust cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The direct injection system, coupled with a variable valve timing system, contributes to both power and efficiency. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 382.79 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. When running on E85 fuel, output increases to 380 horsepower and 564 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifting and durability. This transmission is electronically controlled and features a tow/haul mode for improved performance when towing.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the six-speed automatic provides adequate power for everyday driving and moderate towing duties. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8 option, the 5.3L offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth gear changes. The gear ratios are optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road capability. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Sierra, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, it does result in a slight reduction in fuel efficiency and a less engaging driving experience. The four-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it suitable for various terrains.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Box 5.3L 4WD Sierra typically fell into the mid-range of the Sierra 1500 lineup. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. The interior typically featured cloth upholstery and durable plastic trim. Optional extras included upgraded infotainment systems with navigation, leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and various safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. The work truck (WT) trim was the most basic, while the LT trim offered more comfort and convenience features.
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 and good load-carrying capacity. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.3L V8 with the six-speed automatic was a popular choice among Sierra 1500 buyers who prioritized a balance of capability, fuel economy, and affordability. Critics generally praised the engine’s smooth power delivery and the transmission’s responsiveness. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck. 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 fuel-efficient but lacked the same level of performance. Reliability was generally good, with the L83 engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 has proven to be a relatively reliable engine, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Common issues include oil consumption and occasional misfires, but these are typically addressed with routine maintenance and repairs. In the used car market, the 2016-2018 Sierra 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 4WD remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. Its combination of power, fuel economy, and durability makes it a practical and long-lasting vehicle.
