Hemi V8 Power Returns To The Ram 1500, With A Twist

Hemi V8 Power Returns To The Ram 1500, With A Twist​

Story by Steven Symes



Hemi V8 Power Returns To The Ram 1500, With A Twist
The rumors are starting to bear fruit as the Hemi V8 triumphantly returns to the 2026 Ram 1500. After angering a lot of its customer base, the truck brand under the direction of Amsterdam-based Stellantis has brought back the burly engine.

However, the Hemi doesn’t return in its purest form. The only way truck shoppers will be able to get it is with the eTorque hybrid system. Not everyone is going to be loving that fact, but for now that’s what we get.

Keep in mind, some great news could be coming on June 8, including more Hemi V8s added to the Ram lineup.

The 48-volt hybrid powertrain promises fuel savings, something V8s aren’t generally known to provide. It also comes with 395-horsepower on tap along with a stout 410 lb.-ft. of torque. That does mean for those who worship stats sheets the twin-turbo Hurricane high-output will be more desirable since it has 550-hp. Even the non-high-output pumps out 420-hp.

But many love V8 engines for their balanced, smooth power delivery, a broad power band, as well as overall durability. After all, peak output figures are interesting, but they don’t tell the whole picture when it comes to performance or real world practicality.


Image via Stellantis

We’re guessing as a form of peace offering with the fans, Ram is putting a “Symbol of Protest Badge” on every Hemi-powered 1500’s front fenders. We expect it to be a real crowd pleaser since it features a stylized ram head mounted up to a V8 engine bristling with wide open headers.

Pickup trucks are no longer just utilitarian workhorses, they've evolved.
What The 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger Price Says About The Future Of New Pickup Trucks

Getting rid of the Hemi V8 was obviously a dumb and unnecessary move. GM and Ford kept their V8s in the Silverado/Sierra and F-Series, even with some alternative powertrain offerings available.

"Everyone makes mistakes, but how you handle them defines you. Ram screwed up when we dropped the HEMI — we own it and we fixed it,” said Tim Kuniskis, CEO, Ram brand. “We’re not just bringing back a legendary V-8 engine, we’re igniting an assertive product plan and expanding the freedom of choice in powertrain for our customers.”

We’re hoping the Hemi-powered 2026 Ram 1500 models don’t cost too much, but these days everything does and that’s a real problem.



https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/aut...&cvid=90b28f2e4ad74922b485b27faf96782d&ei=116

 

[EdGs]

Now, if they'd only ditch the E-torque BS

 

[wutech]

so when is the parts information available for the ram badge? Gotta figure there is going to be a run on those.

 

[kt4hx]

At least I see an oil dipstick under the hood!

 

[JHoward]

... nothing new here, same ol' news for the HEMI powered 2026 RAM 1500 Express.

Maybe once the e-Torq BS is used up, there won't be anymore slapped onto the HEMI engine in later production and hopefully an revised engine block design ... and hey, how 'bout the return of the RCSB HEMI powered RAM Express ...?
... absolutely not counting on any of that.

 

[crash68]

We’re hoping the Hemi-powered 2026 Ram 1500 models don’t cost too much,

There's another thread going on about this subject, but the Hemi is going to be an upcharge over top the cost of the Hurricane engine and it will only be available with e-Torque.

 

[Docwagon1776]

There's another thread going on about this subject, but the Hemi is going to be an upcharge over top the cost of the Hurricane engine and it will only be available with e-Torque.

It's cheaper than the SO in all the trims that use the Pentastar V6 as the base option per Mark Dodge's post here:

https://www.ramforum.com/threads/hemi-update-2026-my-ram-1500s-at-mark-dodge.218187/#post-3016974

 

[crash68]

It's cheaper than the SO in all the trims that use the Pentastar V6 as the base option per Mark Dodge's post here:

https://www.ramforum.com/threads/hemi-update-2026-my-ram-1500s-at-mark-dodge.218187/#post-3016974

Different thread, it starts with this post:

Something new for the returning Hemi

The 2016 Hemi powered Ram trucks get a new badge https://www.carscoops.com/2025/06/its-got-a-hemi-5-7-liter-v8-returns-in-2026-ram-1500/ You have to wonder how many people will buy this emblem for their Hemi trucks.

www.ramforum.com

Then proceed through the thread to the part where Jimmy07 points out the Ram CEO stating the Hemi is an upcharge over the Hurricane in the video. That statement is just after the 5:50 mark in the video.

 

[kt4hx]

When one looks at the chart posted by Anthony at MD, it does appear that the 3.0L SO is a $1695 upcharge to the standard 3.6L V6 (Pentastar), and then the Hemi 5.7L V8 is an additional $1200 upcharge to the SO. That would jibe with what Kuniskis says in the video. So to get the Hemi in something like the Big Horn would be a $2895 option.

There does seem to be some confusion about this, as most sources are saying simply that the Hemi will be $1200 more. However, I am not so sure about that, and we will have to wait for further clarification. I do suspect it will wind up being a $2895 option for the Tradesman through Big Horn trims.

 

[KalboKalbs]

Hemi V8 Power Returns To The Ram 1500, With A Twist​

Story by Steven Symes

View attachment 567639

Hemi V8 Power Returns To The Ram 1500, With A Twist
The rumors are starting to bear fruit as the Hemi V8 triumphantly returns to the 2026 Ram 1500. After angering a lot of its customer base, the truck brand under the direction of Amsterdam-based Stellantis has brought back the burly engine.

However, the Hemi doesn’t return in its purest form. The only way truck shoppers will be able to get it is with the eTorque hybrid system. Not everyone is going to be loving that fact, but for now that’s what we get.

Keep in mind, some great news could be coming on June 8, including more Hemi V8s added to the Ram lineup.

The 48-volt hybrid powertrain promises fuel savings, something V8s aren’t generally known to provide. It also comes with 395-horsepower on tap along with a stout 410 lb.-ft. of torque. That does mean for those who worship stats sheets the twin-turbo Hurricane high-output will be more desirable since it has 550-hp. Even the non-high-output pumps out 420-hp.

But many love V8 engines for their balanced, smooth power delivery, a broad power band, as well as overall durability. After all, peak output figures are interesting, but they don’t tell the whole picture when it comes to performance or real world practicality.

View attachment 567640
Image via Stellantis

We’re guessing as a form of peace offering with the fans, Ram is putting a “Symbol of Protest Badge” on every Hemi-powered 1500’s front fenders. We expect it to be a real crowd pleaser since it features a stylized ram head mounted up to a V8 engine bristling with wide open headers.

Pickup trucks are no longer just utilitarian workhorses, they've evolved.
What The 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger Price Says About The Future Of New Pickup Trucks

Getting rid of the Hemi V8 was obviously a dumb and unnecessary move. GM and Ford kept their V8s in the Silverado/Sierra and F-Series, even with some alternative powertrain offerings available.

"Everyone makes mistakes, but how you handle them defines you. Ram screwed up when we dropped the HEMI — we own it and we fixed it,” said Tim Kuniskis, CEO, Ram brand. “We’re not just bringing back a legendary V-8 engine, we’re igniting an assertive product plan and expanding the freedom of choice in powertrain for our customers.”

We’re hoping the Hemi-powered 2026 Ram 1500 models don’t cost too much, but these days everything does and that’s a real problem.



https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/aut...&cvid=90b28f2e4ad74922b485b27faf96782d&ei=116

Ram screwed up when we dropped the HEMI — we own it and we fixed it,”

^^^ Uh No, you are still screwing up, by keeping eTorque. Dumb-sses.

 

[kt4hx]

When one looks at the chart posted by Anthony at MD, it does appear that the 3.0L SO is a $1695 upcharge to the standard 3.6L V6 (Pentastar), and then the Hemi 5.7L V8 is an additional $1200 upcharge to the SO. That would jibe with what Kuniskis says in the video. So to get the Hemi in something like the Big Horn would be a $2895 option.

There does seem to be some confusion about this, as most sources are saying simply that the Hemi will be $1200 more. However, I am not so sure about that, and we will have to wait for further clarification. I do suspect it will wind up being a $2895 option for the Tradesman through Big Horn trims.

Then again, I could be reading this all wrong!

 

[tones2SS]

They couldn't get any more power or torque out of it with the "hybrid" system?
I'm not for the hybrid system at all, but at least try to bump up the numbers.

 

[Docwagon1776]

Different thread, it starts with this post:

Something new for the returning Hemi

The 2016 Hemi powered Ram trucks get a new badge https://www.carscoops.com/2025/06/its-got-a-hemi-5-7-liter-v8-returns-in-2026-ram-1500/ You have to wonder how many people will buy this emblem for their Hemi trucks.

www.ramforum.com

Then proceed through the thread to the part where Jimmy07 points out the Ram CEO stating the Hemi is an upcharge over the Hurricane in the video. That statement is just after the 5:50 mark in the video.

That's confusing AF, then.

I'm still not buying a new Ram any time soon, but I'm glad to see the choice of a V8 available.

 

[brentwasham]

Had a '23 with the hemi etorque, between the vagueness in the brakes and steering and 18 mpg it was a big step down in driveability and economy from my '13 Pentastar quadcab. Sold it after 3 months. Couldn't buy the turbodiesel due to recall of fuel pumps, and there were some engine longevity and pandemic-related missing option issues. Wound up with a used '22 GMC baby duramax. Love the 32 mpg and it drives nice. I just don't see how you can run a company and be so out of touch with the customer base. Between the cost of repairs and dumbutt decisions it flabergasts me they're still selling vehicles. Don't even get me started on the electric Dodge Charger, its criminal. We have a '22 Pacifica we like, but put up with some quirky noises, and learned on the '13 Ram, get the extended warranty!

 

[KC5TGQ]

Now, if they'd only ditch the E-torque BS

I have a 2019 with e-Torque and love it. 6 years and no problems.

 

[KC5TGQ]

Hemi V8 Power Returns To The Ram 1500, With A Twist​

Story by Steven Symes

View attachment 567639

Hemi V8 Power Returns To The Ram 1500, With A Twist
The rumors are starting to bear fruit as the Hemi V8 triumphantly returns to the 2026 Ram 1500. After angering a lot of its customer base, the truck brand under the direction of Amsterdam-based Stellantis has brought back the burly engine.

However, the Hemi doesn’t return in its purest form. The only way truck shoppers will be able to get it is with the eTorque hybrid system. Not everyone is going to be loving that fact, but for now that’s what we get.

Keep in mind, some great news could be coming on June 8, including more Hemi V8s added to the Ram lineup.

The 48-volt hybrid powertrain promises fuel savings, something V8s aren’t generally known to provide. It also comes with 395-horsepower on tap along with a stout 410 lb.-ft. of torque. That does mean for those who worship stats sheets the twin-turbo Hurricane high-output will be more desirable since it has 550-hp. Even the non-high-output pumps out 420-hp.

But many love V8 engines for their balanced, smooth power delivery, a broad power band, as well as overall durability. After all, peak output figures are interesting, but they don’t tell the whole picture when it comes to performance or real world practicality.

View attachment 567640
Image via Stellantis

We’re guessing as a form of peace offering with the fans, Ram is putting a “Symbol of Protest Badge” on every Hemi-powered 1500’s front fenders. We expect it to be a real crowd pleaser since it features a stylized ram head mounted up to a V8 engine bristling with wide open headers.

Pickup trucks are no longer just utilitarian workhorses, they've evolved.
What The 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger Price Says About The Future Of New Pickup Trucks

Getting rid of the Hemi V8 was obviously a dumb and unnecessary move. GM and Ford kept their V8s in the Silverado/Sierra and F-Series, even with some alternative powertrain offerings available.

"Everyone makes mistakes, but how you handle them defines you. Ram screwed up when we dropped the HEMI — we own it and we fixed it,” said Tim Kuniskis, CEO, Ram brand. “We’re not just bringing back a legendary V-8 engine, we’re igniting an assertive product plan and expanding the freedom of choice in powertrain for our customers.”

We’re hoping the Hemi-powered 2026 Ram 1500 models don’t cost too much, but these days everything does and that’s a real problem.



https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/aut...&cvid=90b28f2e4ad74922b485b27faf96782d&ei=116

Where will it be made? As I understand it the HEMI has been made in Mexico. Also, will they update the engine so that it does not have the tap?

 

[jd77480]

Wonder how it felt to Mopar when they heard that popping sound. And that head popped out of that *** and they realized we messed up. And decided to bring the Hemi back!!!

 

[mikeru]

When one looks at the chart posted by Anthony at MD, it does appear that the 3.0L SO is a $1695 upcharge to the standard 3.6L V6 (Pentastar), and then the Hemi 5.7L V8 is an additional $1200 upcharge to the SO. That would jibe with what Kuniskis says in the video. So to get the Hemi in something like the Big Horn would be a $2895 option.

There does seem to be some confusion about this, as most sources are saying simply that the Hemi will be $1200 more. However, I am not so sure about that, and we will have to wait for further clarification. I do suspect it will wind up being a $2895 option for the Tradesman through Big Horn trims.

I agree that the pricing was a little confusing. @AnthonyRI clarified that in another thread. Here's a quote from that thread...

HEMI is open - here's how the pricing actually works

Tradesman/Bighorn
- V6 Pentastar is STANDARD $0
- SO Hurricane is optional at $1695
- HEMI $2895

Laramie
- SO Hurricane is STANDARD $0
- HEMI $1200

Limited/Longhorn
- HO Hurricane is STANDARD $0
- HEMI optional $0

 

[tjfdesmo]

They couldn't get any more power or torque out of it with the "hybrid" system?
I'm not for the hybrid system at all, but at least try to bump up the numbers.

It's a mild hybrid with the MGU doing its thing via the serpentine belt. It's a joke. Added weight and complexity for basically nothing.

 

[Martin1500]

Ram screwed up when we dropped the HEMI — we own it and we fixed it,”

^^^ Uh No, you are still screwing up, by keeping eTorque. Dumb-sses.

Well placed.