2026 Ram 1500 Release Date, Specs & More
2026 Ram 1500 at a Glance
- A total of 10 trim levels, including the new Express (positioned between the Tradesman and Big Horn)
- Return of the mighty 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 on select trucks
- Maximum towing capacity increases to 11,610 pounds,1 along with a 2,360-pound peak payload2
- The 2026 Ram 1500 release date has already rolled out
The 2026 Ram 1500 roars into the new year with a few surprises. The previous model received a redesign, but that didn't stop this latest pickup from making a statement. Maximum towing capability has increased, and the fan-favorite V‑8 powertrain makes a comeback. The Warlock – which was reintroduced last year – is back and joined by the new Express trim, which is available with the striking Black Express Appearance Package. Get the full scoop on this truck with our 2026 Ram 1500 review below, then contact CDJR Columbia to schedule your visit.
2026 Ram 1500 Specs: Engines & Performance
The 2026 Ram 1500 lineup comes with four engine options.
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V‑6: This renowned engine produces 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, and it's now paired with eTorque mild-hybrid technology and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
- 3.0-liter Hurricane: This engine is available in two variants: the standard version delivers 420 horsepower and 469 pound-feet of torque, while the High-Output setup boosts performance to 540 horsepower and 521 pound-feet of torque.
- HEMI V-8: This engine is only available on select 2026 Ram 1500 trucks, generating 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque.
In terms of capabilities, each engine excels in different areas. The 3.6-liter V‑6 boasts a maximum towing capacity of 8,130 pounds,1 a boost from last year, making it the lowest among the powertrains. However, it delivers the top fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 20/25 MPG (City/Highway),3 and allows for the highest payload of 2,360 pounds when properly equipped.
For top towing numbers, the 3.0-liter Hurricane hits a peak of 11,610 pounds when properly equipped, while the HEMI V‑8 follows closely with a maximum of 11,320 pounds.1 The High-Output Hurricane leads in horsepower and torque, producing the most power while still providing a 10,000-pound maximum towing capacity.1
No matter which engine checks off all your boxes, every 2026 Ram 1500 comes backed by America's Best Full-Size Truck Powertrain Limited Warranty:4 10 years or 100,000 miles.5
2026 Ram 1500 Configurations & Trim Levels
As you explore the 2026 Ram 1500 trim levels, you'll find some familiar favorites, including the practical Tradesman, the luxurious Limited, and the off-road-tuned Rebel and RHO. The Warlock, featuring Bilstein® shocks and 33-inch all-terrain tires, makes a return after its 2025 reintroduction. It's joined by the Tungsten, which debuted last year and comes with a standard 4x4, High-Output 3.0-liter I‑6 engine, 24-way power front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, a 23-speaker Klipsch® Reference Premiere audio system, Tungsten-exclusive bodyside molding, and power running boards.
The newest trim to join the lineup is the Ram 1500 Express, a discontinued edition that was available before 2019 but resurfaces for 2026 with bold, refreshed styling. Sitting just above the Tradesman is the Express, which comes with standard LED headlamps and fog lamps, remote vehicle start, and 20-inch aluminum wheels.
The full trim list for the 2026 Ram 1500 includes:
- Tradesman
- Express
- Big Horn
- Warlock
- Laramie
- Rebel
- RHO
- Limited
- Limited Longhorn
- Tungsten
Configuration choices remain the same, with options including a Crew Cab paired with a 6-foot, 4-inch box, a Crew Cab with a 5-foot, 7-inch box, or a Quad Cab with a 6-foot, 4-inch box, along with the choice of a 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrain.
With trims and configurations ranging from work-ready to trail-rated to top-tier luxury, the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup ensures you can find a truck that feels tailor-made for your drive. When you're set to take one home, don't forget to check out our new vehicle specials for exciting opportunities to save on your next full-size pickup.
2026 Ram 1500 Interior Features: Safety & Technology
From dynamic lighting, like a walk-up animation in the headlights, to the commanding, refined presence of its exterior, the 2026 Ram 1500 is prepared to get to work. Once you step inside, you'll see that it goes deep to make your experience behind the wheel memorable, comfortable, and safe.
Available safety systems for the 2026 Ram 1500 include:
- Trailer Auto Hitch Assist
- ParkSense Automated Parking System
- Automated Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist
- Hands-Free Active Driving Assist
- Forward Collision Warning System with Evasive Steer Assist
- Intersection Collision Assist System
- Drowsy Driver Detection
That's just a sampling of what the 2026 Ram 1500 offers. Ask our team about the following available technology upgrades:
- 14.5-inch touchscreen display with split-screen capability
- 10.25-inch passenger interactive display
- 12-inch driver information digital cluster display
- Head-Up Display
- 23-speaker Klipsch® Reference Premiere audio system
- Dual wireless charging pads
- Smartphone as a key
- Key-fob-operated power tailgate
When Is the 2026 Ram 1500 Release Date?
Wondering when you can test-drive this full-size pickup in Columbia, IL? The 2026 Ram 1500 release date has come and gone, with several trim levels already having joined our new Ram 1500 vehicles and are now waiting for in-person viewing at Clement CDJR Columbia. Stop by today to explore your favorite edition, compare engine options, and get behind the wheel for a full tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Ram 1500 change in 2026?
Having undergone a redesign for 2025, the 2026 Ram 1500 enters the new model year with minimal changes. With that in mind, shoppers will notice an increase in maximum towing and payload capacity, the addition of a new Express trim, the continued availability of the Warlock and Tungsten models, and the return of the HEMI V-8 powertrain on select Ram 1500 trucks.
Will the 5.7 HEMI be available in 2026?
Yes, back by popular demand, the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 returns for the 2026 Ram 1500, joining the Pentastar V-6 and the two Hurricane powertrains. Optional on select trim levels, the HEMI harnesses 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, along with the unmistakable engine roar truck owners know and love. Contact Clement CDJR Columbia to learn which trucks can be equipped with the V-8.
Which features are included in the 2026 Ram 1500?
The 2026 Ram 1500 will include a full selection of standard and available features, including:
- 8.4 to 14.5-inch touchscreen display
- 10.25-inch passenger interactive display
- 12-inch driver information digital cluster display
- Head-Up Display
- 23-speaker Klipsch® Reference Premiere audio system
- Dual wireless charging pads
- Smartphone as a key
- Key-fob-operated power tailgate
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
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1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2When properly equipped. Max payload ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload weights. Contact dealer for details.
3EPA-estimated 20 city MPG with [engine] and [transmission]. Actual mileage may vary. EPA-estimated 25 hwy MPG with 3.6L Pentastar V-6 and eight-speed automatic tranmission. Actual mileage may vary.
4Based on years and mileage coverage offered and the latest available competitive information. Excludes BEVs. Applies to 2026 model year vehicles. Non-transferable. Visit Mopar.com for complete details and a copy of the Powertrain Limited Warranty.
5Whichever time/mileage designation comes first. Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.