2026 Ram Trucks: HEMI is Back
The 2026 Ram truck lineup is a turning point for the company with bold innovation and a return to classic muscle. After a controversial decision in 2025 to end production of the HEMI V8, Ram is bringing it back because of record demand by loyal truck customers. Bringing back the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8, now featuring eTorque mild-hybrid technology, is the centerpiece of a year of refinement, capability, and customer-mandated changes.
Powertrain Options: A Mixed List
Ram offers one of the most diversified sets of engines in the full-size truck market in 2026. Consumers can choose from fuel economy, turbocharged power, hybrid tech and the unrestrained ability of a V8.
1. 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque (Returning in 2026)
The 2026 class headliner is the 5.7-liter HEMI V8. For the first time, the engine comes with eTorque mild-hybrid technology that lays down 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, with up to 130 lb-ft of launch torque gain from the hybrid system. The HEMI also comes with a factory sport exhaust and a 33-gallon fuel tank, which provides more range and that trademark V8 sound truck fans crave.
2. 3.0L Twin-Turbo Hurricane I-6 (Standard Output)
Replacing the low-end V8 in 2025, the Hurricane I-6 is not to be taken lightly. With 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque, the twin-turbo extracts more out of its inline-six on paper than the departing HEMI with better fuel economy and emissions.
3. 3.0L Twin-Turbo Hurricane I-6 (High Output)
For performance trims, the Hurricane I-6 high-output engine generates 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque. It is the most powerful production Ram 1500 engine ever, offering smooth turbo power with modern refinement.
4. 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque
Still available on lower trims, the V6 offers a compromise of fuel economy and real-world usability. Producing around 305 horsepower, it's ideal for someone who doesn't need heavy-duty capability but wants a good and finished truck.
5. Plug-In Hybrid (Ramcharger)
New for 2026, the Ramcharger combines a 3.6L V6 with an electric generator and motor to provide plug-in hybrid capability. It boasts around 145 miles of unadulterated electric range and more than 650 miles of combined range. It produces more than 660 horsepower and more than 600 lb-ft of torque—perfect for buyers who appreciate technology.
Trim Levels and Availability of HEMI
The 2026 Ram 1500 comes with a broad range of trims, and the HEMI V8 comes in most as an option or a standard, depending on the trim.
- Laramie and Rebel: Buyers can opt for the HEMI as a choice or stick with the base output Hurricane.
- Limited and Longhorn: The high-output Hurricane is standard, but the HEMI is included at no extra cost for those seeking V8 horsepower.
- Tungsten and RHO (Ram High Output): These upscale and performance-oriented models keep the high-output Hurricane and don't offer the HEMI option.
This flexibility allows buyers to choose the best engine to their driving style, if they prefer traditional muscle or modern turbo punch.
Styling and Interior Refinement
The new 2026 model year brings new exterior styling across the Ram 1500 lineup. Relatively subtle changes to the grille, lighting, and wheels maintain the trucks' workaday appearance without sacrificing their rugged heritage. A fresh tailgate design, more color options, and a stronger visual presence are among the elements that distinguish the Ram from a sea of similar vehicles.
Within, Ram trucks lead the pack with upscale materials, smart design, and top-notch technology. Trims like the Laramie, Longhorn, and Tungsten provide genuine leather, open-pore wood trim, and metal trim. The Tungsten trim, in particular, provides virtually luxury-class comfort and technology features, such as massaging seats, a top-of-the-line sound system, and dual display screens.
Technology upgrades include a new Uconnect infotainment system with faster processing, wireless software updates, and more app capability. An optional 14.5-inch center screen is added to a digital driver's cluster and passenger screen for entertainment or navigation guidance.
Off-Road and Performance Focus
Ram continues to remain in the off-road and enthusiast niche. Rebel trim level is now more capable than ever, with better suspension, skid plates, 33-inch tires, and optional locking differentials. An all-new off-road group includes hill descent control, rock mode, and trail camera systems to enhance running over rough terrain.
The RHO trim further continues the TRX's tradition with a Hurricane I-6 of high output boasting incredible power, huge fender flares, and aggressive off-road looks. The TRX model using the HEMI V8 motor has been said to be in the pipeline and will likely roll out later in the model year.
Capability and Towing
Capability is a Ram signature. The 2026 Ram 1500 will tow almost 11,600 pounds when right-equipped, based on axle and powertrain configuration. Payload capacity is up to 1,750 pounds, and a variety of rear suspension systems—coil springs, air suspension, or heavy-duty leaf springs—enable customers to tailor the ride and load management desired.
The reintroduced HEMI is not a slouch in this regard either, providing more than 11,400 pounds of towing capacity and robust off-the-line torque, particularly when combined with the eTorque system's seamless hybrid assist.
Return of the HEMI: It's Not Just an Engine
The return of the HEMI is more than a mechanical update—it’s a cultural moment. When the engine was pulled from the 2025 Ram lineup, backlash from long-time fans was immediate. Ram listened, and the 2026 model now includes a unique badge—a stylized Ram head mounted over an engine block—to symbolize the HEMI’s return and customer-driven change.
This addition not only returns a signature engine to the family but also reaffirms the company's commitment to its core buyers—those who value power, heritage, and choice.
Safety and Driver Assistance
All 2026 Ram 1500s come with an extended list of safety and driver-assistance features. Automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring are now available on nearly every trim, with the upper trims supplemented by more advanced features like highway semi-autonomous driving, trailer backup assist, and 360-degree cameras.
Warranty and Reliability
Ram continues to back its trucks with a strong warranty package. The 2026 Ram 1500 comes with a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty on some trims, offering extra long-term reassurance. With the combined improvement of reliability, material, and fit-and-finish, Ram trucks are no longer simply known for performance, but for long-term durability.
Conclusion: A Bold Return and a Bright Future
The art of finding the right balance between innovation and heritage-the 2026 Ram truck lineup. With the return of the HEMI V8, Ram responds to the pleas of faithful enthusiasts wanting power and sound from an authentic V8. Meanwhile, Ram keeps moving forward with turbocharged powerplants, hybrid solutions, and electrification on the way.
Whether you desire the Hurricane I-6's smooth power, the Ramcharger's hybrid efficiency, or the unmistakable rumble of the HEMI, the 2026 Ram lineup has something for every type of truck buyer. It's a big year, and Ram isn't just along for the ride—they're driving it.