The HEMI is Back: Ram Revives Iconic 5.7L V-8 in 2026 Ram 1500
Ram has officially announced the return of its legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, starting with the 2026 Ram 1500. Orders are now open, and the first V-8-powered trucks are expected to arrive at dealerships this summer.
“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 of the Ram brand. “We’re not just bringing back a legendary V-8 engine—we’re reigniting an aggressive product strategy and giving our customers more freedom of choice.”
After Ram moved to six-cylinder engines for the 2025 model year, strong demand and loyal fan feedback pushed the brand to bring back the HEMI. While the new Hurricane Straight Six Turbo engine remains in the lineup, the return of the V-8 caters to enthusiasts who believe there’s simply no substitute for the HEMI.
“At the end of the day, we measure success by what our customers want—not just numbers or trends. Data be damned—HEMI is back!” Kuniskis added.
Power and Identity
Every HEMI-powered 2026 Ram 1500 will feature a unique new badge: the “Symbol of Protest.” Designed in-house, it shows the iconic Ram head charging forward—powered by a HEMI engine block.
The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 returns with 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, supported by advanced tech like variable camshaft timing and cylinder deactivation for improved fuel efficiency.
Also featured is Ram’s class-exclusive eTorque hybrid system. Replacing the traditional alternator with a belt-driven motor generator and 48-volt battery, the eTorque system offers smoother engine start/stop, enhanced torque during acceleration, and regenerative braking—all while improving overall efficiency and drivability. The system provides up to 130 lb-ft of supplemental torque at launch.
Performance-enhancing technologies include:
- Variable valve timing
- Fuel Saver Technology (cylinder deactivation)
- An 850-watt electric cooling fan with smart modulation
- Intelligent eTorque integration with a 430-watt-hour lithium-ion battery
Thanks to these innovations, the V-8-powered Ram 1500 offers up to 11,470 pounds of towing capacity and a max payload of 1,750 pounds.
Available Trims and Value
The 5.7-liter HEMI will be available in a wide range of 2026 Ram 1500 models, including Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, Rebel (late availability), Limited, and Longhorn. For the Limited and Longhorn trims, the HEMI is a no-cost upgrade and includes a performance-tuned exhaust and a 33-gallon fuel tank.
Ram's Product Momentum
The reintroduction of the HEMI V-8 marks just one piece of Ram’s broader strategy. The 2025 lineup introduces improved light- and heavy-duty pickups and expands the brand’s off-road and commercial offerings, including:
- The all-new Ram 1500 RHO: a high-value performance off-road truck
- 2025 Chassis Cab upgrades for commercial customers
- A renewed focus on Ram Professional: a B2B initiative delivering stronger support and resources for businesses
With bold decisions, customer-first thinking, and a passion for performance, Ram is positioning itself for a strong future—starting with the unmistakable sound and power of the HEMI V-8.
Ram continues to outperform the competition, setting the benchmark in the most important areas for truck buyers:
- Segment-first: 1,000 lb.-ft of torque with Cummins Turbo Diesel
- Most luxurious: Ram 1500 Tungsten with air suspension, 24-way massage seats and 540 horsepower
- Ram 1500 and Heavy Duty: Best ride and handling with five-link solid rear axle with available, segment-exclusive, active-level air suspension
- Ram 1500 RHO: Best off-road performance per dollar
- Ram ProMaster: The most cargo space available in any traditional full size cargo van
- Ram Power Wagon: Most off-road capable full-size pickup
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