Ram Reintroduces Hemi V8, Describes It as a 'Symbol of Defiance'

Ram Reintroduces Hemi V8, Describes It as a 'Symbol of Defiance'

      Ram

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      In a surprising move, Ram eliminated the V8 engine from its half-ton truck lineup for 2024. The twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline-six engine surpasses the Hemi in nearly every performance category, but public response indicated that performance isn’t everything for truck buyers. This is likely the reason why Ram is reintroducing the 5.7-liter Hemi for 2026, complete with a distinctive performance exhaust. It's a significant decision.

      The new engine will closely resemble the previous version of the Hemi that was phased out. It will be paired with the mild-hybrid eTorque system, which is now standard. This setup delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, which is lower than the regular Hurricane’s 420 hp and 469 lb-ft of torque, and considerably less than the high-output variant providing 510 hp and 540 lb-ft of torque. Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis remarked, “So what? It’s what the people want.”

      “Everyone makes mistakes, but your response to them defines you,” Kuniskis stated. “Ram made a mistake by dropping the Hemi. We acknowledge that and are making it right.”

      Contrary to what many online commentators may believe, the reintroduction of the Hemi could not occur instantly. When Ram initiated the process, suppliers reportedly quoted an 18-month wait time. However, the current plan is to start delivering V8-equipped 1500s this summer, with orders now open.

      The Hemi V8 can be selected for the following Ram 1500 trims: Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, Rebel, Limited, and Longhorn. It costs $2,895 on Tradesman through Big Horn models, $1,200 on Laramie and Rebel, and is provided at no extra charge for Limited and Longhorn, as these trims come standard with the high-output Hurricane. Naturally, an additional charge for the 5.7-liter is unwarranted since it has 115 fewer hp and 130 lb-ft less torque than the H.O. 3.0-liter.

      The high-output Hurricane engine is exclusive to the Baja-blasting RHO and ultra-lux Tungsten models.

      Ram

      Importantly, every Hemi-powered Ram 1500 will feature a new “Symbol of Protest” badge on its exterior. Yes, that is indeed its name. We're talking about Ram here.

      “Forget the data—we raise our flag and allow the Hemi to echo once more!” concluded Kuniskis.

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Ram Reintroduces Hemi V8, Describes It as a 'Symbol of Defiance' Ram Reintroduces Hemi V8, Describes It as a 'Symbol of Defiance' Ram Reintroduces Hemi V8, Describes It as a 'Symbol of Defiance' Ram Reintroduces Hemi V8, Describes It as a 'Symbol of Defiance' Ram Reintroduces Hemi V8, Describes It as a 'Symbol of Defiance'

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Ram Reintroduces Hemi V8, Describes It as a 'Symbol of Defiance'

You can now place an order for a 2026 Ram 1500 featuring a V8 once more, and all pickups will be equipped with a standard loud performance exhaust.