What’s New for the 2026 Ram 1500?
Ram has never been shy about shaking things up—and for 2026, it’s doubling down on what truck buyers actually asked for. From the return of the iconic HEMI® V-8 to more tech, more capability, and fresh styling options, the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup is all about power, comfort, and choice. Let’s break down what’s new.
The HEMI® Is Back (Yes, Really)
One of the biggest headlines for 2026 is the return of the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 eTorque, brought back directly due to customer feedback. Ram listened—and delivered. Even better, it now comes standard with the GT Performance Exhaust, giving the truck both added value and that unmistakable V-8 attitude.
Express and Black Express Make a Comeback
Ram is also reviving two fan-favorite trims: Express and Black Express. These models bring bold styling and strong value to the lineup and are available across all cab and bed configurations, making them an attractive option for buyers who want standout looks without stepping into luxury pricing.
Fresh Colors for 2026
New exterior color options help the Ram 1500 stand out even more:
- Molten Red Pearl-Coat
- Silver Zynith
- Serrano-Green Metallic (late availability)
Whether you want subtle or eye-catching, there’s a new shade to match your vibe.
Powertrain Options for Every Kind of Truck Owner
The 2026 Ram 1500 offers one of the most versatile powertrain lineups in the segment:
- 3.6-liter Pentastar® V-6 eTorque
- 305 hp / 269 lb-ft of torque
- Paired with TorqueFlite® 850RE eight-speed automatic
- 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 eTorque
- 395 hp / 410 lb-ft of torque
- Paired with TorqueFlite® 8HP75 eight-speed automatic
- 3.0-liter Hurricane SO Twin-Turbo I-6
- 420 hp / 469 lb-ft of torque
- Paired with TorqueFlite® 8HP75 eight-speed automatic
- 3.0-liter Hurricane HO Twin-Turbo I-6
- 540 hp / 521 lb-ft of torque
- Paired with TorqueFlite® 8HP75 eight-speed automatic
From efficient daily driving to serious performance, Ram gives buyers real choices.
Serious Capability, Smarter Than Ever
No matter which engine you choose, the 2026 Ram 1500 delivers impressive numbers:
Maximum Towing & Payload
- V-6 eTorque: up to 8,130 lbs towing, 2,360 lbs payload
- HEMI® V-8 eTorque: up to 11,320 lbs towing
- Hurricane SO: up to 11,610 lbs towing
- Hurricane HO: up to 10,000 lbs towing
Ride quality remains best-in-class thanks to the five-link coil rear suspension, while the class-exclusive active-leveling air suspension improves efficiency, comfort, off-road capability, and ease of entry.
Ram also continues to lead with bed and towing innovation, including:
- RamBox® cargo management system
- LED bed lighting and bed divider
- Multifunction tailgate with center bed step
- Advanced towing tech like Trailer Reverse Steering Control, Blind-Spot Monitoring with Trailer Detection, and digital rearview mirror with tow mode
Segment-Leading Technology and Comfort
Inside, the 2026 Ram 1500 raises the bar yet again:
- Available 14.5-inch Uconnect® 5 touchscreen
- Segment-first 10.25-inch passenger display
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Full-color Head-Up Display
- Available Hands-Free Driving Assist (Level 2+)
- Class-exclusive dual wireless phone charging
Luxury buyers aren’t left out either, with options like:
- 24-way power front seats with massage, heat, and ventilation
- Best-in-class second-row legroom with heated and cooled seats
- Available Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system with 1,228 watts and 23 speakers
Configurations and Trim Levels
The 2026 Ram 1500 is offered in:
- 4×2 or 4×4
- Quad Cab with 6’4″ bed
- Crew Cab with 5’7″ or 6’4″ bed
Trim lineup includes: Tradesman, Express/Black Express, Warlock, Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, RHO, Limited, Limited Longhorn, and Tungsten.
The Bottom Line
The 2026 Ram 1500 proves that evolution doesn’t mean abandoning what people love. With the return of the HEMI®, smarter tech, expanded trims, and best-in-class comfort, Ram continues to build one of the most well-rounded and capable full-size trucks on the road.
If you want muscle, luxury, tech—or all three—the 2026 Ram 1500 delivers.
