Hemi Roars Back

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Hemi Revival in the 2026 Ram 1500

There are few sounds on the road as electrifying as the growl of the Hemi V8, and Dodge and Ram know it. In an era where the Hurricane twin-turbocharged six-cylinder is gaining ground, Stellantis is rekindling love with the Hemi V8, especially in the 2026 Ram 1500. Not every model will get this powerhouse, but for those lucky enough to have it, get ready for an exhilarating drive.

Responsiveness Matters

Every now and then, automakers listen to their folks. Take Ram, for example. They’ve realized that dropping the Hemi V8 wasn’t a winning play for some enthusiasts. It’s a bit like when Volkswagen ditched touch controls for buttons again. As Tim Kuniskis from Ram put it, Ram missed a trick by dropping the Hemi, but with humility comes correction—and the correction is sweet as this V8 returns.

Tech and Power Unite

The Hemi V8 isn’t showing up alone. This beast has a partner in the eTorque hybrid system, stepping in with a 48-volt motor generator for smoother starts and a little nudge on the torque front—up to 130 lb-ft more when you hit the pedal. The numbers speak: 395 horsepower, 410 lb-ft of torque, towing capacity up to 11,470 pounds, and a payload capacity up to 1,750 pounds. That should handle just about any job thrown its way.

Trims and Options

For those curious about which Ram 1500s get the Hemi V8, it’s available in trims like the Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, and Rebel, while sitting as a no-cost option in the Limited and Longhorn models. But avid fans of the RHO, Ram’s almost-TRX model, might be let down since it comes strictly with a 540-horsepower Hurricane engine, tailored for high-speed off-roading. Meanwhile, the luxe Tungsten trim continues favoring the beefy I6 without any Hemi option.

Final Thoughts

Re-introducing the V8 into the Ram 1500 lineup is like opening a new chapter for pickup fans who love a traditional engine rumble. Ram ensures shoppers can enjoy both the nostalgic muscle of a V8 or the economical prowess of a turbocharged six. As these models roll into showrooms soon, it’s clear Ram listened and responded, tinkering to perfection for drivers looking to relish the drive.

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