05-05-2025
2026 Ram 1500 Express Returns with Style, Power, and Value
Ram is reintroducing a familiar name to its full-size truck lineup with the launch of the 2026 Ram 1500 Express. Aimed at buyers looking for affordability without compromising on design or features, the Express fills the gap left by the discontinued Ram 1500 Classic. Starting at $44,495, this model blends capability, technology, and updated styling into a compelling new entry point for Ram's modern truck offerings.
Built for Budget-Conscious Buyers
With the market lacking affordable new full-size trucks after the Classic's departure, 2026 Ram 1500 Express steps in as a value-focused option. Though it isn't the least expensive Ram truck—that title remains with the $42,370 Tradesman—it's positioned just above it and well below the Big Horn trim. The Express offers a distinct visual edge with monochromatic paint, gloss-black grille accents, and body-colored bumpers. Five exterior color options are available: Bright White, Granite Crystal (also referred to as Crystal Gray), Forged Blue (also Satin Blue or Aqua Blue), Hydro Blue, and Diamond Black.
Prices are as follows:
Quad Cab 2WD – $44,495
Crew Cab 2WD – $47,245
Quad Cab 4WD – $48,345
Crew Cab 4WD – $51,095
These prices include Ram's $2,095 destination charge. Equivalent pricing has also been listed in Saudi Riyals for global customers.
Simple, Stylish, and Capable
The Express trim delivers modern design elements previously limited to higher trims. Standard 20-inch wheels, a clean exterior look with minimal badging, and gloss-black highlights give it a bold, upscale presence. Ram also brings back the Black Express package—last seen in 2019—for $995. This adds black 20-inch wheels, side steps, a sport hood, LED fog lamps, black-badge detailing, and interior enhancements like premium cloth seats and a center floor console. The Black Express variant comes with a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and refined materials such as Liquid Graphite and Gridiron finishes in the cabin.
Under the hood, the standard engine is the 305-horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to improve efficiency. Buyers can also upgrade to the new 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged Hurricane inline-six engine for $1,695. This high-output option delivers 420 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, exceeding even the HEMI V8 from previous models. When equipped with the rear-wheel-drive Quad Cab, the truck can tow up to 12,000 pounds—among the best ratings for this segment.
Tech Features Without the Luxury Price Tag
Despite its position as a value trim, the 2026 Express doesn't skimp on safety and driver-assist tech. Standard features include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and black-bezel LED headlights. This approach allows Ram to cater to younger drivers and practical buyers who want current technology in a more affordable package.
The reintroduction of the Express comes as part of a broader plan announced by Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis, who revealed the company intends to roll out 25 new vehicles over the next 18 months. After a rocky start with the 2025 Ram 1500—where limited lower trims left budget-conscious buyers out in the cold—the Express is Ram's first move to correct course. Deliveries are expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025, and order banks are already open.
For those who need a stylish, powerful, and capable truck without spending $70,000 or more, the 2026 Ram 1500 Express brings back the fundamentals—with a modern edge.
