2026 Ram 1500 | What to Expect in 2026
Here's a dive into what to anticipate from the 2026 Ram 1500, with updates vs. the 2025 model, including powertrains, trims, colors, tech, and more:
Major Changes: 2025 → 2026
After its termination in 2025, Ram has brought back the iconic 5.7 L HEMI V‑8 with eTorque mild-hybrid for 2026.
Produces 395 hp and 410 lb‑ft torque, with an eight-speed automatic.
Price: $1,200 optional on most models (Tradesman through Rebel), standard on Laramie, Limited and Longhorn models. Not available on RHO and Tungsten.
2. Broader Powertrain Lineup
Continues the 2025 lineup's popularity, now supplemented by the HEMI:
3.6 L Pentastar V‑6 w/ eTorque – Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn/Lone Star base engine
3.0 L Hurricane I‑6 (Standard Output) – mid-level, 420 hp, standard on Laramie & Rebel
3.0 L Hurricane I‑6 (High Output) – 540 hp, Limited, Longhorn, RHO, Tungsten standard
5.7 L HEMI V‑8 w/ eTorque hybrid – optional as stated above
3. New Value-Focused Trim: Express
The Express trim returns in 2026 with budget-friendly gear with distinctive black accents and 20″ wheels.
Quad and Crew Cab; Black Express appearance package optional adds sport hood and black cloth interior.
4. Off-Road & Performance Models
RHO (2025 off-road six‑cyl star) continues where it left off with standard High-Output I‑6.
TRX V‑8 is back for 2026, reportedly more powerful than before—maybe Hellcat-level output
Ramcharger plug-in hybrid (series hybrid) debuts in 2026 with 145 mile EV range + 690 mile combined range; dual motors, 663 hp, 14,000 lb tow.
Ram 1500 REV electric pickup now delayed until 2027 model year, with 168 kWh battery (350 mi range) and 654 hp, 620 lb‑ft in base dual-motor trim.
Exterior & Color Updates
Styling refresh includes sharper grille, LED head/tail lights, new fascia, and multifunction tailgate as a fan-favorite.
Wheels new options ranging from 18″ to 22″ depending on trim.
New paint colors reported by dealers: Molten Red, Serrano Green, Canyon Lake. Also, phased swap from “Billet Silver” to “Silver Zenyth.”
Interior & Technology Enhancements
Display upgrades: Standard 8.5″ touchscreen; available 12″ and available 14.5″ vertical screen in higher trims.
Hands-Free Active Driving Assist: lane centering, adaptive cruise control on highways.
Towing tech: Trailer Health Monitor, dynamic reverse guidance, digital rearview mirror w/ tow cam, auto hitch assist, telescopic mirrors, mirror-mounted cameras.
RAM Digital Key, dual wireless charging pads for driver & passenger.
High-end audio: Klipsch 23-speaker Reference Premiere system with Tungsten.
Interior trim provides quilted leather, massaging seats in Tungsten.
Capability & Warranty
Performance numbers:
+ Max horsepower up to 540 hp (HO Hurricane) and 395 hp (HEMI).
+ Max torque ~521 lb‑ft (HO I‑6), 410 lb‑ft (HEMI).
+ Towing: up to ~11,610 lb; payload: ~2,360 lb.
Warranty: Select models now receive a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
Summary: What's New in 2026?
1. HEMI V‑8 return with mild-hybrid eTorque
2. More powertrain variety: V6, twin-turbo I-6 (SO & HO), HEMI, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid; full EV bumped out
3. New trim (Express) for budget-conscious buyers and **enhanced Rebel/RHO/TRX** line
4. Styling refresh with new grille, lighting, tailgate, wheels, and colors
5. Small interior and tech updates, best-in-class luxury being saved for Tungsten
6. Enhanced warranty
7. Loading capacity: still extremely competitive
Why Buy the 2026 Model?
For HEMI fans, the revival of authentic V‑8 sounds and torque is the highlight.
For tech enthusiasts, the Express and HO I‑6 models are excellent values with more screens and driver assist.
For off-road enthusiasts, the Rebel, RHO, and especially the returning TRX are top-of-the-line.
For eco-sensitive buyers, the upcoming hybrid Ramcharger has legitimate EV range with gasoline backup.
Availability
Ordering will be open in mid/late summer of 2025; dealer deliveries late 2025 to early 2026.
Own it all year with confidence – MotorTrend's Truck of the Year (2025) award and assistance with extended warranties.
With the 2026 Ram 1500, Ram sets a bold balance: respectful of its HEMI legacy, expanding sophisticated tech, open to electrification, and evolving luxury — genuinely offering something for everyone.