Cerritos Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
The 2026 Ram 1500 specs deliver impressive numbers across its nine trim levels and highlight why this full-size pickup continues to set the standard in its segment. But which trim has the most horsepower and torque? The team at Cerritos CDJR is here to explore the details so you can discover your ideal match.
The 2026 Ram 1500 engine lineup presents four potent variants, giving shoppers plenty of choices to find the horsepower, torque, and tow rating needed for work or weekend adventures. Take your pick from the following:
The standard engine for the Ram 1500, this V-6 pairs solid performance with energy management thanks to the eTorque Mild Hybrid System. It boasts smooth acceleration, reliable towing, and plays a key role in giving your Ram 1500 the max payload rating of 2,370 pounds.3
A classic juggernaut returning for the 2026, the HEMI V-8 combines strong horsepower and torque with the eTorque system, which provides an additional 130 pound-feet of supplemental launch torque. This engine is ideal for motorists who want to feel the loud roar of a V-8 while enjoying the rugged force that has defined traditional pickups for decades.
This inline-six turbocharged engine packs a punch while still being efficient. Offering excellent horsepower and torque, it boasts the highest towing capability of 11,550 pounds when your 2026 Ram 1500 is properly equipped, all while maintaining seamless, confident operation for everyday rides. The best part? It can be fitted on the entry-level Tradesman.
The performance-focused version of the Hurricane I-6, this engine achieves the maximum 2026 Ram 1500 horsepower and torque. Plus, it has More Available Horsepower Than The Ford Raptor,4 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, or Nissan Titan.5 This beast is engineered for truck lovers seeking top-tier dominance.
The 2026 Ram 1500 doesn't hold back when it comes to horsepower and torque across its engine selection. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 wields 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, giving drivers a capable ride that can handle daily commutes and unexpected challenges.
Need more 2026 Ram 1500 torque and ponies? The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 produces 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, while the 3.0-liter Hurricane I-6 steps it up with 420 horsepower and 469 pound-feet of torque.
At the top of the heap, the High-Output 3.0-liter Hurricane I-6 elevates the Ram 1500 Tungsten specs (also standard on the RHO, Limited, and Limited Longhorn) with a staggering 540 horsepower and 521 pound-feet of torque.
From the steady V-6 to the jaw-dropping High-Output Hurricane, the 2026 Ram 1500 proves that raw muscle and commanding torque aren't just numbers – they're an experience you can feel every time you hit the accelerator.
| Standard Engine | Available Engine | Transmission | Horsepower | Torque | Drivetrain | Max Towing Capacity | Max Payload Capacity | EPA-Est. MPG (City/Hwy) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Tradesman | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 |
|
8-speed automatic | 305 - 420 | 269 lb-ft - 469 lb-ft | 4x2 or 4x4 | 8,460 lbs1 | 2,360 lbs3 | Up to 20 / 252 |
 |
Express | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 |
|
8-speed automatic | 305 - 420 | 269 lb-ft - 469 lb-ft | 4x2 or 4x4 | 8,460 lbs1 | 2,360 lbs3 | Up to 20 / 252 |
 |
Big Horn | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 |
|
8-speed automatic | 305 - 420 | 269 lb-ft - 469 lb-ft | 4x2 or 4x4 | 8,380 lbs1 | 1,940 lbs3 | Up to 20 / 252 |
 |
Warlock | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 | 5.7L HEMI V-8 | 8-speed automatic | 305 - 395 | 269 lb-ft - 410 lb-ft | 4x4 | 6,410 lbs1 | 1,780 lbs3 | Up to 19 / 242 |
 |
Laramie | 3.0L Hurricane I-6 | 5.7L HEMI V-8 | 8-speed automatic | 305 - 395 | 269 lb-ft - 410 lb-ft | 4x2 or 4x4 | 8,300 lbs1 | 1,670 lbs3 | Up to 18 / 252 |
 |
Rebel | 3.0L Hurricane I-6 | N / A | 8-speed automatic | 420 | 469 lb-ft | 4x4 | 11,140 lbs1 | 1,600 lbs3 | Up to 17 / 242 |
 |
RHO | High-Output 3.0L Hurricane I-6 | N / A | 8-speed automatic | 540 | 520 lb-ft | 4x4 | 8,510 lbs1 | 1,520 lbs3 | Up to 14 / 162 |
 |
Limited | High-Output 3.0L Hurricane I-6 | 5.7L HEMI V-8 | 8-speed automatic | 395 - 540 | 410 lb-ft - 520 lb-ft | 4x4 | 10,050 lbs1 | 1,380 lbs3 | Up to 15 / 212 |
 |
Limited Longhorn | High-Output 3.0L Hurricane I-6 | 5.7L HEMI V-8 | 8-speed automatic | 395 - 540 | 410 lb-ft - 520 lb-ft | 4x4 | 10,050 lbs1 | 1,380 lbs3 | Up to 15 / 212 |
 |
Tungsten | High-Output 3.0L Hurricane I-6 | N / A | 8-speed automatic | 540 | 520 lb-ft | 4x4 | 9,150 lbs1 | 1,170 lbs3 | Up to 15 / 212 |
The Ram 1500 has come a long way since its debut in 1981. Early updates included replacing the Magnum engine with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 in the third generation, followed by the introduction of the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 and 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 in the fourth generation – the latter becoming a mainstay ever since.
For the 2024 model year, the brand shifted focus toward efficiency by phasing out the EcoDiesel and HEMI engines in favor of the innovative Hurricane engines. Due to popular demand, the 5.7-liter HEMI returned for the 2026 lineup, now offered alongside the Hurricane motors. Through all these changes, the brand's commitment to producing vigorous, reputable trucks has never wavered. Whether you're drawn to the classic 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 or the modern Hurricane engines, there's a Ram 1500 built to excite every kind of truck enthusiast.
Reading about the 2026 Ram 1500 specs certainly is different than experiencing them in person. Check out these full-size trucks firsthand and let the team at Cerritos CDJR guide you through everything from the Ram 1500 Rebel specs to the components that make each trim level stand out. Discover the strength, competence, and innovation that set the 2026 Ram 1500 apart.
The 2026 Ram 1500 delivers its peak horsepower – 540 ponies – in the RHO, Limited, Limited Longhorn, and Tungsten trims with the High-Output 3.0-liter Hurricane I-6. Just behind them are the Laramie and Rebel trims with the standard 3.0-liter Hurricane I-6 engine generating 469 horsepower. The 3.0-liter Hurricane is also optional on the Tradesman, Express, and Big Horn.
The maximum torque output of the 2026 Ram 1500 is 540 pound-feet and is harnessed by the High-Output 3.0-liter Hurricane I-6 standard on the RHO, Limited, Limited Longhorn, and Tungsten trim levels. The 3.0-liter Hurricane I-6 provides the second-highest torque output, at 469 pound-feet of torque, standard or available on the Tradesman, Express, Big Horn, Rebel, and Laramie.
The 2026 Ram 1500 offers rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, depending on the trim. The Tradesman, Express, Big Horn, and Laramie models can be paired with either 4x2 or 4x4, while all other trims come exclusively with 4x4. Bed size and cab style also influence obtainable drivetrain configurations. For example, the 2026 Ram 1500 Laramie Crew Cab with a 6-foot-4-inch box cannot be built with 4x2.
Yes. When equipped with 4WD Auto mode, the 2026 Ram 1500 can automatically shift from 2WD to 4WD as needed. This system defaults to 2WD for normal driving on dry pavement but seamlessly engages the front wheels when the vehicle's computer detects a loss of traction, such as on slippery or uneven surfaces. This tech isn't standard, but it can be added on select trims.
Trail-focused 2026 Ram 1500 trims like the Warlock, Rebel, and RHO have their own dedicated off-road packages with standard equipment such as Bilstein® front and rear shocks on the Warlock. For other models, an available Off-Road Group package – offered even on the entry-level Tradesman – adds enhancements such as an electronic locking rear axle, fuel tank skid plate, transfer-case skid plate, off-road decals, and more.
The 2026 Ram 1500 lineup does not feature a fully hybrid or electric setup. However, the standard 3.6-liter V-6 and HEMI V-8 both have the eTorque Mild Hybrid System, along with Engine Stop/Start technology included on every engine. That being said, an all-electric truck is on the horizon, the Ram 1500 REV, which is projected to launch in 2026 or 2027.
11/2/2024
The best car buying experience I have ever had. I was assisted by Diego Franco who was very patient, knowledgeable about my family’s needs, and most important non-pushy/non-pressure sales. He and his team gave us a very fair offer for our trade, we negotiated a great deal on a RAM truck and the finance process was seamless! No pressure, no sneaky add-ons attached to the financing, and everybody won. This is what vehicle purchasing should be! Highly recommend.
1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.
3When properly equipped. Max payload ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload weights. Contact dealer for details.
4Based on horsepower ratings for Hurricane 3.0L HO vs 3.5L EcoBoost HO and the latest available competitive information.
5Based on Max available horsepower ratings and the latest competitive information.
