The 2026 Ram 1500 marks the return of the iconic 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine, now paired with a 48-volt eTorque mild-hybrid system. This setup delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, maintaining the classic V-8 performance while improving efficiency and responsiveness. The addition of eTorque allows for smoother stop-start operation, improved low-end torque, and a more refined driving experience.
This engine option brings serious capability to the table, offering a maximum towing capacity of around 11,470 pounds and a payload capacity of approximately 1,750 pounds. It’s available as a $1,200 upgrade on most trims, but comes standard on higher-end models like the Limited and Longhorn. To commemorate its return, every Hemi-equipped Ram 1500 features a unique “Symbol of Protest” fender badge.
Ram reintroduced the Hemi after strong customer demand and admitted it was a mistake to drop it in 2025. A specialized team fast-tracked the reintegration of the engine into the truck’s updated electrical architecture, cutting the expected development time in half. The result is a powerful, refined, and emotionally resonant truck that blends tradition with modern engineering.
