2026 Ram 1500 5.7-Litre HEMI Returns With 395 hp

Ram has officially announced the return of its legendary 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 engine to the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup. The decision comes as a direct response to overwhelming customer demand after the brand shifted to six-cylinder engines for the 2025 model year.

Tim Kuniskis, CEO of Ram brand, didn't mince words about the situation. "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," he stated during the announcement in Windsor, Ontario.

Power Returns With Modern Technology

The returning 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. But this isn't just the same old engine making a comeback. Ram has equipped it with eTorque hybrid technology that adds up to 130 lb-ft of extra torque during initial acceleration.

The eTorque system uses a 48-volt battery pack and motor generator unit instead of a traditional alternator. This setup provides seamless engine start/stop functionality and captures energy during braking to improve both performance and efficiency.

Impressive Capability Numbers

Truck buyers care about what their vehicle can do, and the 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI delivers serious capability. The engine enables towing capacity up to 5,203 kg (11,470 lbs) and maximum payload capacity of 794 kg (1,750 lbs).

Ram has also included a performance-tuned exhaust system and upgraded the fuel tank to 125 litres. The engine features variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation technology to balance power with fuel efficiency.

Wide Trim Availability

The 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 will be available across most of the Ram 1500 lineup for 2026. Buyers can get it in Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Sport, Laramie, Limited, and Longhorn trims. The Rebel trim will get late availability during the model year.

Each HEMI-powered truck will feature a new "Symbol of Protest" badge on the fender, designed by Ram's team to showcase the brand's commitment to customer choice.

The HEMI Legacy Continues

"There is no replacement for the iconic HEMI V-8," Kuniskis emphasized. "At the end of each month, we count sales to customers, not to statisticians or ideologues. Data be damned — we raise our flag and let the HEMI ring free again."

Ready to experience the return of the HEMI? Contact Hwy 11 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Orillia to learn more about the 2026 Ram 1500 and reserve your place in line for this legendary engine's comeback.