What engine comes in Silverado Custom?

The base engine for the Silverado Custom is the 2.7L Turbocharged EcoTec3 inline-4. Depending on the model year and market, you can also option larger V8s or a Duramax diesel.

Engine options for the Silverado Custom

The following engines are commonly offered with the Silverado 1500 Custom. Availability varies by model year and region, so check the exact specifications for the year you’re considering.

• 
  2.7L Turbocharged EcoTec3 inline-4 — roughly 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque; paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This is the standard engine on many Silverado Custom configurations.
  


• 
  4.3L EcoTec3 V6 — about 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque; typically paired with an 8-speed automatic. This engine is available on some Custom builds, depending on the year.
  


• 
  5.3L EcoTec3 V8 — around 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque; generally paired with an 8-speed automatic (with some years offering other transmission choices). This is a common upgrade option on higher trims or specific packages.
  


• 
  6.2L EcoTec3 V8 — about 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque; most often paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine targets higher towing and performance needs.
  


• 
  3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6 — roughly 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque; typically paired with a 10-speed automatic. The Duramax is chosen for improved towing efficiency and fuel economy on select Custom configurations.
  

In practice, the exact engine lineup you’ll see on a Silverado Custom depends on the model year, regional market, and option packages. Always verify the current specs with Chevrolet’s official materials or a local dealer before purchasing.

Choosing the right engine for your needs

When selecting an engine for a Silverado Custom, consider what you’ll use the truck for. For daily driving and light towing, the 2.7L turbo provides modern efficiency and sufficient power. If you regularly tow or haul heavier loads, the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 options offer more torque and towing capability. If fuel economy and long-range efficiency matter most, the 3.0L Duramax diesel can be attractive, though availability varies by year and trim.

Notes on model-year variations

Engine availability and specifications can change with each model year. Chevrolet refines powertrains, transmissions, and packaging, so it’s important to confirm the exact engine options for the year you’re considering. Dealer brochures, Chevrolet’s official site, and build-and-price tools will show the current lineup for Silverado Custom.

Summary

In short, the Silverado Custom’s standard engine is the 2.7L Turbo, with several larger gasoline V8 options and a Duramax diesel available on various years and configurations. The best choice depends on your priorities—daily usability, towing capacity, or fuel efficiency. Always verify the exact engine options for the specific model year you’re interested in.

Is the 6.2 L or 5.3 L better?

The "better" engine depends on your priorities: the 6.2L is superior for power, offering higher horsepower, torque, and towing capacity, but it's more expensive and requires premium fuel. The 5.3L is a more budget-friendly option that is still very capable for most tasks, is more fuel-efficient in some situations, and can be more cost-effective to operate. 
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the performance difference between the 5.3L and 6.2L engines: 1mlmfscrewYouTube · Dec 7, 2021
6.2L engine

• Pros:
  • More horsepower and torque 
  • Higher maximum towing capacity (up to 13,300 lbs) 
  • Faster acceleration and a sportier feel 
• Cons:
  • More expensive upfront cost 
  • Requires premium fuel, which is more expensive 
  • May not offer significant real-world MPG advantages over the 5.3L 

5.3L engine 

• Pros:
  • More fuel-efficient in many real-world driving situations
  • Can tow a significant amount (up to 11,300 lbs)
  • Uses regular, less expensive fuel
  • Often seen as a reliable and balanced option
• Cons:
  • Less power and torque than the 6.2L
  • Can feel sluggish when under a heavy load compared to the 6.2L 

Which one should you choose?

• Choose the 6.2L if: You frequently tow very heavy loads or want the best possible performance and acceleration, and you are willing to pay more for premium fuel. 
• Choose the 5.3L if: You don't regularly tow more than 10,000-11,000 pounds, want to save money on fuel by using regular gas, and a well-balanced, capable V8 is sufficient for your needs. 

What is a Chevy Silverado custom?

A Chevy Silverado Custom is a mid-tier trim level that offers a balance of upgraded style, convenience features, and performance over the base Work Truck model. It typically includes a more stylish exterior with body-colored accents, upgraded interior materials, and convenience features like remote start and an EZ Lift tailgate. It is a popular choice for buyers who want a step up from a basic truck without the higher cost of the more premium trims. 
This video provides a comprehensive overview of the Chevy Silverado trim levels, including the Custom: 1mDeFOUW ChevroletYouTube · May 24, 2024
Key features and upgrades

• Exterior: Features body-colored bumpers, a high-gloss black grille, and 20-inch Bright Silver painted aluminum wheels. 
• Interior: Includes a more modern interior with upgraded upholstery and materials. It also comes with a 7-inch color touchscreen and standard Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, with options for larger screens on higher trims. 
• Technology and convenience: Comes with standard remote start, LED cargo bed lighting, and a tailgate with EZ Lift assist, power lock, and release functions. 
• Performance: Often comes standard with a powerful engine like the 310-horsepower TurboMax engine and is built for a combination of daily driving, towing, and light off-roading. 

Custom Trail Boss

• The Custom Trail Boss is a variation built on the Custom trim that is specifically designed for off-road capability. 
• It adds a 2-inch factory suspension lift, the Z71 suspension package, and an Autotrac 2-speed transfer case. 
• It also features all-terrain tires, an automatic locking rear differential, and skid plates for increased off-road performance. 

What engine does a Chevy Silverado 1500 custom have?

The Custom model keeps things simple by coming with the standard engine, so you don't have to worry about comparing what's available. Chevy's impressive 2.7L TurboMax engine delivers 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque, making it a powerful and capable standard engine.

Does the Chevy Silverado Custom come with a V8?

Yes, the Chevy Silverado Custom can come with a V8 engine, but it depends on the specific configuration. For example, the Custom Trail Boss trim is available with the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8, and the standard Custom trim can have the 5.3L V8 as an option on some models, though others may come standard with the TurboMax engine. 
This video explains the differences between Silverado trims, including the Custom and LT Trail Boss: 1mChevy DudeYouTube · Aug 6, 2019

• Custom Trail Boss: This trim is available with the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8, which produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, notes Tim Lally Chevrolet and Edwards Chevrolet Downtown. It also offers the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel as an option. 
• Standard Custom: The standard Custom trim can also be optioned with the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 on many models, although other trims may come standard with the TurboMax engine, according to Tera Chevrolet GMC. The 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel is another available option. 

This video reviews the features of the Custom Trail Boss trim: 1mJason SamkoYouTube · Jun 8, 2025