2026 RAM 1500 Review

What’s New for the RAM 1500 in 2026?

The RAM 1500 has arrived for 2026, and while the new Express trim and a Black Express appearance package are drawing attention, what is really catching our eye is what lies under the hood.

The most anticipated release for the 2026 RAM 1500 is the return of the HEMI V8 to the lineup.

You read that right–the famous 5.7-liter V8 engine that was cut from the 2025 RAM 1500 lineup is making a comeback for 2026!

Available on the Tradesman, Warlock, Big Horn, Laramie, and new Express trims for just $1200, you can get reacquainted with the 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque the HEMI V8 was known for.

RAM 1500 Trims

It’s hard to imagine the RAM 1500 getting better and stronger each year, yet the trim levels for the RAM 1500 in 2026 speak for themselves.

With the arrival of the new Express trim, which features unique styling elements and serves as a low-cost, high-value model, you now have more options than ever to find the RAM 1500 that best fits your lifestyle.

The 2026 RAM 1500 is available in an impressive ten trims, including:

• 2026 RAM 1500 Tradesman: Starting at $42,025
• 2026 RAM 1500 Express: Starting at $44,445
• 2026 RAM 1500 Big Horn: Starting at $47,575
• 2026 RAM 1500 Warlock: Starting at $52,865
• 2026 RAM 1500 Laramie: Starting at $61,775
• 2026 RAM 1500 Rebel: Starting at $65,345
• 2026 RAM 1500 RHO: Starting at $74,090
• 2026 RAM 1500 Limited: Starting at $76,700
• 2026 RAM 1500 Limited Longhorn: Starting at $78,195
• 2026 RAM 1500 Tungsten: Starting at $89.095

Engine and Performance

The steady thrum of pure power and capability is back with the return of the HEMI V8 engine–and we’ve missed it.

When RAM dropped the 5.7-liter V8 engine from its lineup, the outrage was immediate, and it soon became clear that a mistake was made. RAM is now seeking to rectify this in 2026.

The HEMI V8 returns in its original state, capable of towing over 11,000 pounds, and is one of four powertrains to choose from–including the engine that sought to replace it in 2025.

The Hurricane twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine is a refined performer, delivering 420 horsepower or 540 on the High-Output model. When equipped, the 2026 RAM 1500 towing capacity is 11,610 pounds on the 3.0-liter Hurricane and 10,000 pounds on the High-Output model. Rounding out the 2026 RAM 1500 engine options is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with eTorque, which delivers 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque.

Exterior Design

The new RAM 1500 continues to be one of the strongest pickup trucks of its time, but the legacy of the RAM is built on more than just performance. It takes a certain level of luxury craftsmanship.

A RAM is immediately noticeable, thanks in part to the R-A-M rear badging and the distinct LED headlamps and taillamps. Luxury continues to weave its way into the exterior design with trim-specific grille surrounds and a newly redesigned full front fascia.

The Black Express appearance package adds a new look to the RAM in 2026, featuring a unique Sport hood, black exterior badging, black 20-inch wheels, black cloth bucket seats, and more!

Style is more than the sleek design of the headlamps or the wheels, though. It can also be found in the color options.

The 2026 RAM 1500 colors include the following:

• Diamond Black Crystal Pearl-Coat
• Granite Crystal Metallic Clear-Coat
• Bright White Clear-Coat
• Serrano-Green Metallic
• Silver Zynith
• Forged Blue Metallic
• Ivory White Tri-Coat Pearl-Coat
• Molten Red Pearl-Coat

Interior

Space is the name of the game when it comes to this full-size pickup, delivering ample interior storage and room for your friends and family. But that’s far from all the RAM 1500 has to offer drivers and passengers.

The 2026 RAM 1500 interior sets the stage for luxury on its base model, and only gets better as you move up the trim levels. However, the most luxurious of them all is the RAM 1500 Tungsten.

The Tungsten offers drivers the best-in-class 24-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, which also feature memory and massage functionality. While those in the front seat feel like they’ve been transported, rear passengers are given some luxury features of their own. This includes class-exclusive reclining rear seats and in-floor storage, and best-in-class rear legroom.

Upscale features are not specific to the Tungsten trim. Most models offer heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and other interior features to elevate your driving experience.

Technology

If the new RAM 1500 excels in any area, it’s the technology. With either a 12.0- or 14.5-inch touchscreen, the 2026 RAM 1500 trucks offer one of the best infotainment systems in its class. A 10.3-inch passenger display is available, allowing the person joining you to access entertainment and navigation functions for the journey ahead.

Other interior tech features include:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Class-exclusive wireless charging ports
• Hands-Free active driving assist
• Integrated trailer health monitor
• Ram Digital Key
• Class-exclusive dual wireless charging pads
• Head-up display

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

The RAM 1500 for 2026 values safety and security above all else–and it shows.

With more than 100 standard and available safety and security features, you can drive with peace of mind and confidence in every adventure.

Some of the main safety and security features include evasive steering assist. If the Forward Collision Warning System warns of a possible collision and the driver initiates an evasive steering maneuver, the Evasive Steering Assist will help the driver in changing lanes to the next clear lane.

Other notable safety features include:

• Intersection collision assist system
• Drowsy driver detection
• Traffic sign recognition
• Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection

Test Drive the New 2026 RAM 1500 For Sale Today at Santee CDJR!

Whether you're drawn to its legendary towing capacity or the refined comfort of its high-tech interior, the 2026 RAM 1500 continues to set the gold standard for full-size pickups.

So are you ready to get behind the wheel?

Explore our current inventory of new RAM trucks, then contact Santee CDJR today to discover for yourself why the 2026 RAM 1500 remains the ultimate choice for work and play!