Elk Grove Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM
Ram has officially listened to its customers—the 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 is back for the 2026 Ram 1500. After a one-year hiatus, the legendary engine returns with modern eTorque hybrid technology, delivering the unmistakable power and sound that Ram fans demanded.
When Ram announced the comeback in June 2025, more than 10,000 orders were placed in the first 24 hours, proving just how much drivers missed the HEMI. Now, the first shipments of HEMI-equipped trucks are arriving at dealerships across the U.S., including Elk Grove CDJR.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque hybrid system |
| Horsepower | 395 hp |
| Torque | 410 lb.-ft. |
| eTorque Boost | Up to 130 lb.-ft. supplemental torque on throttle tip-in |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 11,320 lbs. (SAE J2807) |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 1,650 lbs. |
| Fuel-Saving Tech | Variable camshaft timing, cylinder deactivation, 48-volt eTorque system |
| Badge | Exclusive “Symbol of Protest” fender badge on all HEMI-equipped models |
The 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI® V8 with eTorque blends classic muscle with modern efficiency, making it one of the most versatile engines in the full-size truck segment. At its core is the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8, producing 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, numbers that have long defined Ram’s reputation for strength. What sets this generation apart is the integration of the eTorque mild-hybrid system, which adds up to 130 lb.-ft. of supplemental torque during acceleration. This not only improves responsiveness when towing or hauling but also enhances everyday drivability with smoother power delivery.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the HEMI delivers confident performance across highway cruising, off-road trails, and jobsite demands. With a towing capacity of up to 11,320 pounds and a payload rating of 1,650 pounds, the 2026 Ram 1500 is engineered to handle heavy-duty tasks without compromise. Efficiency hasn’t been overlooked either—variable camshaft timing, cylinder deactivation, and the 48-volt eTorque system work together to reduce fuel consumption while maintaining the unmistakable V8 character.
| Trim | Availability |
|---|---|
| Tradesman | Optional |
| Big Horn | Optional |
| Express | Optional |
| Warlock | Optional |
| Laramie | Optional |
| Rebel | Late availability |
| Limited | Standard / No-charge upgrade |
| Longhorn | Standard / No-charge upgrade |
The 2026 Ram 1500 lineup makes the HEMI® V8 accessible across nearly every trim, giving buyers the freedom to match legendary V8 power with the features and price point that fit their needs. Entry-level models like the Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, and Warlock offer the HEMI as an optional upgrade, making it easy for work-focused drivers to add serious towing and hauling muscle without stepping up in price class. Moving into the Laramie, customers still have the choice to equip the HEMI, blending premium comfort with proven performance.
For those seeking something bolder, the Rebel will eventually offer the HEMI as a late-availability option, pairing off-road capability with unmistakable V8 sound. At the top of the range, the Limited and Longhorn trims include the HEMI as a standard, no-charge upgrade, ensuring luxury buyers don’t have to compromise on performance.
This broad availability underscores Ram’s commitment to customer demand. After shifting to six-cylinder engines in 2025, the overwhelming call for the HEMI’s return made it clear: Ram owners wanted choice, heritage, and power. As CEO Tim Kuniskis explained, bringing back the HEMI isn’t just about an engine — it’s about honoring the passion of Ram’s most loyal drivers.
“We’re not just bringing back a legendary V-8 engine, we’re igniting an assertive product plan and expanding the freedom of choice in powertrain for our customers.”
The message is clear: Ram is doubling down on giving truck buyers the powertrain options they want most.
Every HEMI-equipped 2026 Ram 1500 features a new fender-mounted “Symbol of Protest” badge, designed by Ram’s team to celebrate the engine’s return. The badge depicts the Ram’s head pushing forward, powered by a HEMI V8 block — this combination of raw power, hybrid innovation, and heritage styling ensures that the 2026 Ram 1500 stands out as both a workhorse and a statement of performance tradition.
The 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI V8 return is more than just an engine comeback—it’s a statement of strength, tradition, and customer loyalty. Whether you need best-in-class towing, a work-ready payload, or simply the thrill of a V8 under the hood, the new Ram 1500 delivers.
👉 Elk Grove CDJR has incoming inventory of HEMI-equipped 2026 Ram 1500 trucks. Contact our team today to reserve yours before they’re gone.
DISCLAIMERS:
*MSRP excludes tax, title, license, registration, $1,395 destination charge, and optional equipment. Dealer prices may vary. MSRP does not include $455 charge for premium paint colors.
*Towing and payload ratings are based on properly equipped vehicles and SAE J2807 testing standards. Actual capability may vary depending on trim, configuration, and options.
*eTorque supplemental torque figures represent short-duration peak assist. Performance may vary depending on driving conditions and battery state of charge.
*EPA fuel economy estimates not yet available for the 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI V8 with eTorque. Actual mileage may vary.
*All product descriptions and specifications are based on manufacturer information available at time of publication and are subject to change without notice.