The 2026

Powertrain

The 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 eTorque serves as the entry engine, producing 234 kW (305 hp) at 6,500 rpm and 365 N•m (271 lb-ft) of torque at 4,900 rpm. This 60-degree V-6 features chain-driven dual overhead cams, 24 valves, and variable valve timing. The hybrid system adds a 48-volt, 0.43 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 9 kW belt-starter generator contributing 90 lb-ft of launch torque. Cylinder deactivation technology improves fuel economy during light-load operation. The engine connects to an 850RE eight-speed automatic transmission with 3.21 or 3.55 axle ratios available.

Ram brought back the 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 eTorque for 2026 following customer feedback. This 90-degree V-8 makes 291 kW (395 hp) at 5,600 rpm and 556 N•m (410 lb-ft) of torque at 3,950 rpm. The pushrod valvetrain operates 16 valves through hydraulic lifters with roller followers. Variable cam timing and a deep-skirt cast-iron block with cross-bolted main bearing caps form the foundation. Aluminum-alloy heads use hemispherical combustion chambers. The eTorque setup here includes a 12 kW generator delivering 130 lb-ft of launch torque. A 125-litre fuel tank and performance exhaust come standard. The 8HP75 eight-speed automatic handles gear changes.

The 3.0-litre Straight-Six Turbo offers twin-turbocharged inline-six power. Standard output hits 313 kW (420 hp) at 5,200 rpm and 635 N•m (469 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. Twin turbochargers feed a direct-injection system with centrally located injectors supplied by a single high-pressure pump reaching 350 bar. Dual overhead cams with dual independent valve timing operate 24 valves through roller finger followers. The aluminum block uses plasma spray-bore coated cylinders and cross-bolted steel main bearing caps. Premium 91-octane fuel is recommended.

The high-output SST HO version increases power to 403 kW (540 hp) at 5,700 rpm and 707 N•m (521 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. This variant requires premium 91-octane fuel and uses a 9.5:1 compression ratio. Forged aluminum pistons with DLC-coated pins connect to forged steel rods. A dual 76 mm straight-through exhaust with 127 mm black tips handles flow. Both SST engines use the 8HP75 transmission with 3.21, 3.55, or 3.92 axle ratios. Production occurs at Saltillo North Engine Plant in Mexico.

Technology

The Atlantis electrical architecture supports the 2026 Ram 1500, using a 230-amp alternator on most models and 240 amps with the 3.0-litre SST. A Group 94R H7 730 CCA battery handles cranking duties. eTorque-equipped models store their 48-volt batteries in noise-insulated enclosures behind the rear seat, using air cooling with dual fans. A 3-kilowatt DC-to-DC converter steps voltage down to charge the 12-volt battery and run accessories. HEMI V-8 models retain a conventional starter motor for cold starts.

Three transfer cases serve four-wheel-drive applications. The BW 48-12 part-time unit provides 2WD High, 4WD High Locked, Neutral, and 4WD Low Locked modes with a 2.64 low-range ratio. The BW 48-11 on-demand case adds 4WD Auto for seamless engagement. The BW 48-13 full-time transfer case on SST HO models offers variable torque distribution: 40/60 Auto, 45/55 Wet/Snow, 45/55 Tow, 25/75 Baja, and 50/50 Off-road in 4WD Low. All cases shift electronically.

Front axles measure 215 mm, while rear axles come in 235 mm or 260 mm sizes depending on trim and capability targets. Rear differentials include open, limited-slip, and electronic-locking options. Front suspension employs upper and lower A-arms with twin-tube shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. The rear uses a five-link arrangement with track bar, stabilizer bar, twin-tube shocks, and a solid axle. RHO models upgrade to Bilstein e2 Blackhawk active performance shock absorbers that adjust damping automatically based on driving conditions.