Hemi V8 Returns To 2026 Ram 1500 Lineup Following Consumer Demand
Stellantis brands Dodge and Ram are closely associated with the Hemi V8 engine, but this legendary mill has gradually been phased out in favor of the newer Hurricane twin-turbocharged six-cylinder. Now, not long after we heard that the V8-powered Dodge Charger could return, Ram has confirmed that it's brought back the Hemi V8 for the 2026 Ram 1500 pickup.
This news is music to the ears of Dodge truck fans (quite literally), as many are prepared to live with the Hemi's inferior consumption to enjoy its effortless power, unmistakable soundtrack, and the promise of long-term durability. A few of these fans may be disappointed to hear that not every derivative of the 1500 has access to the V8, though, including the two best 1500s you can buy.
This backtracking move by Ram is refreshing; we're so used to automakers ignoring the pleas of consumers. Thankfully, just as Volkswagen eliminated its hateful touch-based steering controls and brought back buttons, Ram has done the same with its beloved Hemi.
"Everyone makes mistakes, but how you handle them defines you," said Tim Kuniskis, CEO, Ram brand. "Ram screwed up when we dropped the Hemi - we own it and we fixed it. We're not just bringing back a legendary V8, engine, we're igniting an assertive product plan and expanding freedom of choice in powertrain for our customers."
Although the Hurricane six-cylinder engine isn't going anywhere, Kuniskis further went on to say: "We heard loud and clear from consumers: there is no replacement for the iconic Hemi V8. At the end of each month, we count sales to customers, not to statisticians or ideologies."
Instead of a conventional engine-mounted alternator, the eTorque system features a belt-driven motor generator unit that operates with a 48-volt battery. This system enables a smoother start/stop system and adds torque to the engine under certain conditions - up to 130 lb-ft on initial throttle tip-in.
The Hemi V8 produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, and features cylinder deactivation capability to improve gas mileage. Ram promises a towing capacity of up to 11,470 pounds and a payload of up to 1,750 lbs.
The following 2026 Ram 1500 trims can all be optionally equipped with the Hemi V8: Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, and Rebel. It's a no-cost option on the Limited and Longhorn models, both of which get the 3.0-liter Hurricane high-output engine as standard.
The Ram 1500 RHO, the closest thing to a TRX with its numerous off-road modifications, will not be available with the Hemi V8. A V8-powered RHO would have been fantastic, but Ram obviously believes that the 540-hp Hurricane engine is a better choice for this extreme pickup, which excels at high-speed off-roading. The high-end Tungsten, the most luxurious of all 1500s with features like massaging seats, also sticks with the 540-hp I6 and can't be specified with the Hemi.
Orders for the V8-powered Ram 1500 are open now, and these models will start arriving at dealerships this summer.
Ram's decision to give buyers the choice between a trusted V8 and a more economical six-cylinder turbo is a smart one. This change should further boost the appeal of what is already one of the most comfortable and capable pickups in the full-size segment. It'll also prevent V8 fans from rushing to Ford, as the Blue Oval still offers its best-selling truck with an old-school V8 lump.
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