V8 returns to RAM

Return of the Beast: RAM Brings Back the Iconic V8 Engine

The 2026 RAM 1500 HEMI V8 is officially making a comeback. American truck enthusiasts couldn’t be happier. After a one-year absence in 2025, when RAM replaced the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI with the twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six, the brand listened to its fans and decided to bring back one of the most iconic powertrains in pickup history.

The return of the HEMI V8 engine isn’t just a nostalgic move, it’s a strategic one. It shows that RAM understands what makes its trucks so special: raw power, unmistakable sound, and unmatched capability. The 2026 model year will now give buyers the freedom to choose between cutting-edge turbo technology and the timeless muscle of a V8.

The Heart of a True Pickup

Under the hood, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, paired with the 8-speed automatic transmission and optional eTorque mild-hybrid system. This combination offers smoother acceleration, improved towing response, and even better fuel efficiency during city driving. Towing capacity peaks at 11,470 pounds (little over 5 tons), while payload reaches 1,750 pounds (just under 800 kg) – numbers that make the RAM 1500 one of the most capable light-duty trucks on the market.

Why RAM Brought Back the V8 Engine?

RAM’s decision to reintroduce the HEMI V8 in the 2026 RAM 1500 was driven by customer demand. Many truck owners felt the inline-six lacked the deep, thunderous growl and emotional connection of the classic V8. RAM responded really fast. Engineers reworked the RAM’s new electrical architecture (originally designed without V8 support) to accommodate the legendary HEMI engine once again. This engineering effort, completed in just six months, proves RAM’s dedication to driver satisfaction and brand heritage.

Balance Power, Innovation and Legacy

The 2026 RAM 1500 lineup now perfectly balances innovation and tradition. The twin-turbo Hurricane engine still leads in efficiency and modern performance, while the HEMI V8 caters to those who crave power, heritage, and that unmistakable engine sound.

The HEMI is more than an engine – it’s a feeling. It’s the sound of confidence, the thrill of acceleration, and the power that built decades of loyalty among RAM drivers. The 2026 RAM 1500 HEMI V8 revives that legacy, connecting old-school muscle with modern refinement. As the market shifts toward electrification, RAM’s decision to keep the V8 alive shows there’s still room for engines that stir the soul. The return of the HEMI V8 in the 2026 RAM 1500 isn’t just a comeback – it’s a promise. A promise to every driver who believes trucks should have character, power, and presence. With this bold move, RAM continues to dominate the conversation in the premium pickup truck market, delivering a perfect mix of innovation and heritage. For those who want a truck that feels alive, the 2026 RAM 1500 HEMI is the one to watch.

Photos: www.ramtrucks.com