2026 Ram 1500 Hemi V-8 Returns with Power and Pride

Ram Listens to Its Fans — The Hemi Returns

Ram has announced that the beloved 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is officially returning to the 2026 Ram 1500, reversing a controversial decision made just a year ago.

“We got it wrong and we’re fixing it,” said Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis, acknowledging the backlash after the V-8 was cut in 2025 in favor of the twin-turbo Hurricane I-6.

V-8 Roar Returns This Summer

The 2026 Ram 1500 with the Hemi will be available starting this summer. The 5.7-liter engine, which produces 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, will be offered on multiple trims including Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, Limited, and Longhorn.

Off-roaders will need to wait a bit longer for the Rebel trim, which requires special engineering accommodations.

Pricing and Trim Details

• $1,200 option for Laramie and Rebel (which usually come with SO Hurricane).
  
• No-charge option for Longhorn and Limited.
  
• Tradesman, Express, Warlock, and Big Horn pricing TBD.
  

The Standard Output (SO) Hurricane I-6 remains the base engine on most trims, offering 420 hp and 469 lb-ft of torque, and will still be more powerful and fuel-efficient. But for those who crave the iconic V-8 sound, the Hemi is the clear choice.

Engineering a Comeback

The return wasn’t simple. The 2025 Ram 1500’s new electrical architecture wasn’t designed to support the Hemi. But under project codename F15, ex-SRT chief engineer Darryl Smith led a crash program that made it work—in just six months, thanks to shared architecture with the Jeep Wagoneer.

The Hemi returns with the eTorque mild hybrid system, enhancing efficiency and torque delivery with regenerative braking and a 48V battery pack.

New Hemi Badge: Symbol of Protest

Say goodbye to the old Hemi logo. The new badge, called the “Symbol of Protest,” features a V-8 block, exaggerated exhaust pipes, and a Ram’s head. It will appear on the front fenders of all V-8-equipped trucks.

Will It Outsell Ford’s V-8?

Ram expects a 25–40% take rate, with higher adoption than the F-150’s 25% V-8 take rate. Ram believes many loyalists want that unmistakable V-8 cold start and the heritage that comes with it.

What About the Supercharged TRX and 6.2-Liter V-8?

Don’t expect a return of the supercharged TRX or 6.2-liter Hemi. According to Kuniskis, it’s not feasible due to compliance issues, lack of integration with the new architecture, and low volume.

“I’m not saying we won’t do it… but that’s what I’m thinking right now,” Kuniskis said.

Source: Motor Trend