How much horsepower does a 5.3 Silverado have?
The standard 5.3-liter V8 in most Chevrolet Silverado pickups is rated at about 355 horsepower, with peak torque around 383 lb-ft. Exact figures can vary by model year, calibration, and transmission, so the number may differ slightly for older or specialized configurations.
To understand the question in context, it helps to know that Chevrolet has used a 5.3-liter V8 in Silverado trucks since the mid-2010s in its EcoTec3 family. While the 355 hp figure is the common reference for recent years, power can differ in earlier generations and in market-specific variants.
Current and historical horsepower for the 5.3 Silverado
Below is a concise overview of how the 5.3-liter engine has been rated across major generations. Note that exact output can depend on year-specific calibrations and equipment, but the 355 horsepower figure is the prevailing standard for most modern Silverado 5.3s.
- Pre-2014 5.3L V8: roughly 315 horsepower, with torque in the mid-300s (about 335 lb-ft).
- 2014–2023 5.3L EcoTec3 V8: officially rated at 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque in most trims.
- 2024–present: the 5.3L EcoTec3 continues to be listed around 355 horsepower with about 383 lb-ft of torque, with occasional firmware/efficiency updates that do not significantly change peak output.
In practice, buyers and reviewers commonly cite the 355 hp figure for modern Silverado 5.3-liter models, while torque remains a steady 383 lb-ft. For precision on a specific vehicle, check the exact build sheet or GM’s official specification for that year and configuration.
Why horsepower matters for Silverado buyers
Horsepower influences acceleration, highway merging, and overall driving feel, but for trucks, torque often plays a larger role in towing and payload performance. The 5.3’s 383 lb-ft of torque helps with pulling confidence and everyday responsiveness, especially when paired with the correct transmission and axle ratio.
Summary
For most Chevrolet Silverado models equipped with the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8, the official power output is 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Older generations used around 315 hp. When evaluating a Silverado, verify the exact engine code and year to confirm the precise figures for that build, particularly if comparing to higher-output options like the 6.2-liter V8 or the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel.
