Hemi V8 Returns

Hemi V8 Returns

In a reversal many truck enthusiasts will welcome, Ram has decided to bring back the beloved 5.7-liter Hemi V8 for the 2026 Ram 1500. This decision comes after Ram realized that removing it wasn’t sitting well with their fanbase, who are staunchly attached to the power and roaring sound only a V8 can deliver.

Why the Change?

When Ram first introduced the updated 1500 model back in the fall of 2023, many fans were thrilled with the modern facelift and new features. However, the removal of the Hemi V8 left a V8-shaped void that the new twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six just couldn’t fill for those loyal to the classic engine. Despite the inline-six’s impressive performance, many buyers felt stripped of their choice, a sentiment strong enough to push some toward Ford and GM, known competitors that still offered V8 options.

Behind the Decision

CEO Tim Kuniskis highlighted the loyalty of full-size truck owners to their engine preferences. Losing customers who cherish a V8 could lead them to another camp for good, so the team set out to reintroduce the engine rapidly. This became the mission of “Project F15,” named after a playful video featuring an F-15 pilot, marking the initiative to reclaim the Hemi V8’s spot under the hood of the Ram 1500.

Specs and Pricing

The return of the V8 comes with its stats: delivering 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. For those interested in reliving the classic Hemi experience, it becomes an additional $1,200 option, complete with a performance-tuned exhaust that adds to its appeal.

The Driving Experience

Driving the 2026 Ram 1500 with its Hemi V8 is, to put it simply, a different beast. The smooth growl of the engine provides an engaging experience that just feels right in a full-size truck. Compared to the inline-six, the V8 offers a more visceral and robust feel—a satisfying nod to driving simplicity and raw power. In comparisons to Ford’s 5.0-liter V8 and GM’s 6.2-liter V8, Ram’s Hemi holds its own in terms of delivering an engaging drive and modern truck capabilities.

Conclusion

As supply ramps up, anticipation builds among enthusiasts eager to see and hear the Hemi V8 back in action. Ram is positioning this as a strategic move not just to appease fans but to realign with their core customer base whose love for the V8 is more than just nostalgia—it’s a preference that defines the truck experience for many.