The Ram truck lineup for 2026 marks a period of significant strategic adjustment and renewed appeal for the American truck maker. Following a rollercoaster few years, Ram's former CEO has returned, and a legendary engine, the Hemi V-8, is making a comeback. Furthermore, Ram is bolstering its offerings with a substantial new 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a considerable upgrade from the previous five-year, 60,000-mile coverage. This warranty covers critical components such as the engine, transmission, transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, and axles, though Ram’s few electric vehicles are exempt. While the Ram 1500 TRX supertruck is also rumored for a return, the company's broader electric vehicle strategy, particularly regarding its all-electric truck, remains somewhat unclear.

For the 2026 Ram 1500, the most anticipated news is the triumphant return of the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine with eTorque mild hybrid assistance, visually identified by a “Symbol of Protest” fender badge. This return follows a brief hiatus, during which the 2025 Ram 1500, equipped with the 3.6-liter V-6 and the new Hurricane turbo I-6 engines, impressively won the 2025 Truck of the Year award. The reintroduction of the Hemi was not without its technical challenges; the 2025 model's upgraded electrical architecture and 13 new electronic modules required considerable reprogramming to integrate the returning engine. For instance, the power-brake boosting system shifted to an electronically controlled electric boost, necessitating extensive software adjustments to work with the Hemi’s regenerative eTorque system, and the infotainment's noise-cancellation system had to be retuned to accommodate the Hemi's sounds. Beyond the engine, Ram 1500 also brings back the budget-conscious Express package and introduces a new Black Express package for those seeking a stylish yet affordable option.

When comparing the returning Hemi to the Hurricane engine, several distinctions emerge. On paper, the Hemi's 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque appear less potent than the standard-output Hurricane's 420 hp and 469 lb-ft. Fuel economy also slightly favors the Hurricane, with expected EPA city/highway/combined ratings of 18/25/21 mpg (RWD) versus the Hemi’s 18/23/20 mpg (RWD). In terms of hauling, the Hemi’s max payload is 1,650 pounds, while the Hurricane SST can manage 1,820 pounds. Towing capacity is also slightly higher for the Hurricane at 11,490 pounds compared to the Hemi’s 11,320 pounds. However, the decision to bring back the Hemi was largely driven by consumer sentiment, with approximately 40 percent of survey respondents indicating they would consider a different brand if a V-8 option were unavailable. Many buyers equate V-8s with pickup-truck greatness, valuing the auditory experience and the emotional connection to a powerful engine, especially now that the previously optional Mopar GT exhaust system is standard on the 2026 Hemi. The Hemi is also bundled with a 33-gallon fuel tank, a previously $445 option. While the Hurricane typically offers quicker acceleration, the Hemi delivers a satisfying driving experience, particularly in low-line trucks. Ram offers the Hemi as a “freedom of choice” play, making it widely available across crew-cab short-box trucks, from Tradesman to Limited Longhorn, with an aggressive option price of $2,895 (or no-cost for top trims that would otherwise get the high-output Hurricane as standard). For the financially savvy, the Hurricane remains a compelling deal, especially after a recent $1,000 price drop for 2026.

Ram's electric vehicle strategy sees a shift in focus for 2026. The Ram 1500 Ramcharger, an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) pickup, is being prioritized for production. This innovative truck uses electric motors for propulsion but incorporates an engine as a generator for its high-voltage battery, offering an impressive combined driving range of approximately 690 miles when fully charged and fueled. In contrast, the launch of the Ram 1500 REV, Ram’s first all-electric pickup, has been pushed back. Citing changing consumer preferences and regulatory uncertainty, Ram decided to prioritize the Ramcharger, potentially delaying the REV’s launch until later in 2026 or as a 2027 model, with its larger battery option already canceled.

For heavy-duty trucks, the 2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 build upon the refresh introduced in 2025, which included new design details, tech features, interior amenities, and an optional high-output Cummins diesel engine. These trucks, primarily bought for work rather than unladen commuting, now offer two new value-focused trim levels: the Black Express and the Warlock. The Black Express, available on Crew Cab rear- or four-wheel-drive models, aims to provide an upgraded look and feel for entry-level buyers without the