The V8 Engine Returns on the 2026 RAM 1500 With Other Strong Engines

If 2025 marked a major turning point with the introduction of a new powerful and quiet engine, 2026 brings back the well-known 5.7L HEMI V8 on the full-size RAM pickup.

As a reminder, the 3.0L Hurricane engine comes in two power levels with strong torque, as shown in the table below:

The Hurricane engine is also 88 lb. lighter than the V8 and ensures linear, consistent power delivery. The Hurricane HO is found mainly in the RHO trim of the 2025 and 2026 RAM 1500. Moreover, the Hurricane is smooth at start-up and at cruising speeds. It also delivers generous torque, making it effective across the board.

RAM maintains the 3.6L V6 with mild-hybrid system. It generates 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Finally, you will be able to equip your RAM 1500 pickup with a HEMI V8 engine with eTorque and mild-hybrid system, which produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. After taking a break in 2025, the full-size truck manufacturer decided to bring it back following strong demand from brand enthusiasts.

Thus, the RAM 1500 will now be offered with three engine options to meet the expectations of RAM fans in Quebec. By bringing back the 5.7L HEMI V8, the manufacturer offers a broader range of powertrains.

In all cases, RAM 1500 engines work in tandem with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and a 4x4. System. In short, you will have several powertrains to choose from in 2026. They are all powerful and capable.

To better highlight the RAM truck specs sheet, let us compare each engine. What are the characteristics of the RAM Hurricane engine? What are the differences between the V6 Pentastar vs. HEMI V8 vs. Hurricane I6?

Thibault Chrysler Amos, your Chrysler dealer in Abitibi, tells you more about the RAM engines offered in 2026.

The following table shows the differences between the performance of the 5.7-litre HEMI V8 that equips the RAM 1500 and the two Hurricane six-cylinder engines, as well as the 3.6L V6:

Available Powertrains for the RAM 1500

In 2026, you will be able to choose a V6, a V8 or a Hurricane engine.

3.6L Pentastar V6

This entry-level engine offers 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. It comes with mild-hybrid eTorque technology. This increases launch torque by 90 lb-ft and comes standard on the Tradesman and Big Horn trims. It also allows the RAM 1500 to tow up to 8,110 lb.

5.7L HEMI V8

The 5.7L HEMI V8 is reintroduced to the satisfaction of big-engine fans. It produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Here again, eTorque increases launch torque by 130 lb-ft. For maximum towing capacity , the 5.7L HEMI V8 can pull up to 12,750 lb. (4x2 versions) and 11,410 lb. (4x4 versions).

Hurricane Engines

Two versions will be offered. A standard output version (SO) with 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque, and a High Output Hurricane (HO) that will be offered on the RAM 1500 RHO. This engine delivers 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft.

As for the Hurricane’s maximum towing capacity, it will reach 11,570 pounds. In addition, the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic gearbox has remained in the lineup since 2025, while RAM 1500 models with the Hurricane engine will be fitted with a new rear axle.

A brand-new axle ratio (3.55) is added to the existing 3.92 and 3.21 ratios. They are offered as follows:

• 3.21: standard on all RAM 1500 trucks
• 3.55: available for RAM 1500 equipped with the V6 Pentastar
• 3.92: available for RAM 1500 equipped with the HEMI V8 and Hurricane I6

The choice of axle ratio on your RAM 1500 can significantly affect its fuel consumption and towing capacity.

What is an axle ratio? It means that for each full rotation of the drive shaft, the wheels will rotate about 3.92 times in the case of a 3.92 axle ratio, and so on. A higher axle ratio means the engine will spin at a higher RPM at a given speed, which increases fuel consumption. Conversely, a lower axle ratio means the engine runs at a lower RPM at the same speed, which decreases fuel consumption.

Towing capacity is also directly influenced by axle ratio. A higher axle ratio generally provides better torque multiplication, which can increase towing capacity. Therefore, the 3.92 axle ratio is stronger than the 3.21 and 3.55 ratios.

On the other hand, a lower axle ratio can slightly reduce towing capacity in certain conditions, since engine torque at the wheels is lower.

The choice of axle ratio will essentially depend on the driver's priorities. Whether fuel efficiency or towing capacity should come first, or whether a compromise between the two is preferred.

Conclusion

Do you want to know more about the powertrains of the full-size 2026 RAM 1500, about our financing solutions , or about its features? Drop by Thibault Chrysler in Amos. Do not hesitate to book a test drive to experience this new engine and its power.

We also serve and deliver to the following communities:

• Waskaganish
• Eastmain
• Wemindji
• Chisasibi (Fort George)
• Mistissini
• Waswanipi
• Nemaska
• Ouje-Bougoumou