Hear that sound? It’s a Hemi V8 revving—and my neighbors had to endure it for a week. It’s unmistakable, and it certainly ensures you know the Hemi is back.
The 2026 Ram 1500 signifies the reintroduction of the V8 in the manufacturer’s full-size, light-duty pickup lineup. It’s the same engine that was discontinued last year in favor of a newer inline-six with more power, leading to a collective uproar from enthusiasts (and across the Internet). This truck isn’t new; the engine isn’t either, but to give credit, Ram made a market-driven choice based on customer feedback. Plus, the V8 is notably louder now as well.
The Fundamentals
There’s nothing particularly new about the 2026 Ram 1500, including the V8. It’s the Hemi you recognized and, apparently, largely appreciated. However, the novelty lies in the fact that you can actually purchase one now. And it comes at a cost.
The Ram 1500 continues to be the most visually appealing and user-friendly full-size light-duty pickup available for the price. Its front design isn’t as aggressive or elevated as that of its rivals. It appears more approachable, avoiding the rigid, metallic boxiness that’s often associated with toughness or compensating for something. It’s stylish in the higher trims and unassuming in the more basic trims, such as the Big Horn I drove. The sole addition for the 2026 model is the “Symbol of Protest” emblem on the front fenders of Hemi versions. It’s even listed on the actual window sticker. You can’t make this up.
The Ram 1500 boasts the most impressive interior within its category, and it’s not even a close race. There’s a noticeable reduction in cheap, hard plastic across all trims compared to competitors. The fit and finish surpass that of rivals. Usability is either superior or on par with others since visibility from the cabin is significantly better than in the Silverado and Tundra, all thanks to the seating arrangement and windshield design.
Experiencing the 2026 Ram 1500 V8
The available 5.7-liter Hemi V8 evaluated is rated at 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, partnered with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that Ram brands as e-torque. Dubbed a Symbol of Protest, there’s even an emblem on the front fender for all to see.
An eight-speed automatic gearbox comes standard, as does rear-wheel drive, though most of these vehicles will be equipped with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case for 4Lo.
For those keeping tally, that output is significantly less than the 420 hp and 469 lb-ft of torque generated by the 3.0-liter inline-six in its standard form, and far below the 510 hp and 540 lb-ft provided by the high-output straight-six. Do people prefer power or noise? Don’t respond—I’m already aware.
What stands out is that every truck outfitted with the V8 now includes a performance exhaust system as standard. The Hemi didn’t merely reappear; Ram ensured everyone within earshot was aware of its presence with a loud roar. It’s somewhat overbearing and excessive, honestly. Each time the truck starts, the exhaust howls like a savage. On day one, it was exhilarating and brought smiles. By day three, it became wearisome. And by day six, it was quite embarrassing waiting in line at school with the truck continually revving on and off.
The V8 performs like it did previously. This means there’s ample power as the RPMs rise, but it lacks the instant response of the turbo-six, which accelerates quickly and provides strong push. The truck with fewer cylinders under the hood is noticeably swifter. Additionally, it’s quieter.
The Ram still offers the smoothest ride among full-size half-ton pickups, thanks to its rear coil springs. The soft yet composed suspension gracefully absorbs the rough Midwestern roads in a manner that an F-150 or Silverado can only aspire to. The steering offers a pleasant weight, though there’s little feedback to be felt. The ZF eight-speed automatic is a jewel, second only to perhaps the 10-speed in the Tundra, and it might achieve even faster shifts.
Ram heeded customer feedback and reinstated the Hemi V8, even though eight cylinders are no longer the preferred engine choice in trucks.
However, it comes at a price. Opting for the V8 adds $2,895 to the cost of a 2026 Ram 1500, resulting in a $1,695 premium for an engine that offers less power and poorer fuel efficiency but significantly more noise.
What’s the value of freedom noises to you? What aspects do you prioritize in a pickup truck? The answers to these queries will guide you in determining if the return of the Hemi V8 is significant when considering a 2026 Ram 1500.
Ram supplied The Drive with a week-long loan of this vehicle for the purpose of crafting this review.
| 2026 Ram 1500 Specs | |
|---|---|
| Base Price (Big Horn as-tested) | $52,665 ($63,835) |
| Powertrain | 5.7-liter V8 | 8-speed automatic | four-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 395 @ 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 410 lb-ft @ 3,950 rpm |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Towing Capacity | 11,320 pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,650 pounds |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches |
| Off-Road Angles | 19.1° approach | 19.5° breakover | 20.5° departure |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 16 mpg city | 20 highway | 18 combined |
| Score | 8/10 |
Quick Overview
Less efficient, pricier, and more intrusive, the Hemi V8 makes little practical sense compared to the turbo-six, yet some individuals resist acknowledging reality.