If you’re asking what engine does the 2026 Ram 1500 have, you’re looking at Ram’s latest Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six engines as the main powerplants. Ram continues the shift away from traditional V8s toward turbocharged six-cylinder engines that deliver more power and better fuel economy.

The 2026 model builds on changes introduced in 2025, with the Hurricane engines now fully replacing the Hemi in most configurations. Let’s dig into every engine option, what they deliver, and which one makes sense for your driving style.

2026 Ram 1500 Engine Lineup Overview

Ram simplifies things for 2026 by making the Hurricane twin-turbo engines the standard across the board. The days of the Hemi being everywhere are basically over.

You’re getting one of two Hurricane variations in most 2026 Rams. The TRX still rocks its supercharged monster motor, but that’s in a class by itself.

Complete 2026 Engine Options

Here’s what Ram offers in the 2026 Ram 1500:

• 3.0L Hurricane Standard Output Twin-Turbo I6 (base)
• 3.0L Hurricane High Output Twin-Turbo I6 (upgraded)
• 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (TRX only)
• 5.7L Hemi V8 (extremely limited, possibly Classic only)

The two Hurricane engines handle 95% of Ram sales. Unless you’re buying a TRX or hunting down a rare Hemi, you’re getting a turbo six.

3.0L Hurricane Standard Output Engine

The Hurricane SO serves as the base engine across most 2026 Ram 1500 models. Don’t let “standard” fool you—this thing packs serious punch.

Hurricane SO Power Numbers

Here’s what the base Hurricane cranks out:

• Horsepower: 420 hp @ 5,350 rpm
• Torque: 469 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
• Displacement: 3.0 liters (183 cubic inches)
• Configuration: Inline-six with twin turbos
• Fuel requirement: Regular 87 octane
• MPG: 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined (2WD)

That torque number crushes what the old Hemi delivered. And it hits peak twist at just 3,000 rpm, giving you instant grunt off the line.

Hurricane SO Key Features

The standard Hurricane uses modern tech to deliver big power efficiently:

Tech highlights:

• Twin turbochargers for quick spool-up
• Aluminum construction (lighter than iron blocks)
• Direct fuel injection
• Variable valve timing both sides
• Cylinder deactivation for fuel savings
• Runs on cheap regular gas

This engine proves you don’t need a V8 to get V8 power. The turbos make all the difference.

Hurricane SO Towing Specs

The base Hurricane handles serious towing despite being the entry engine:

Towing capabilities:

• Max towing: Up to 11,560 lbs (properly equipped)
• Max payload: Up to 2,300 lbs
• Low-end torque perfect for trailers
• Eight-speed auto pairs perfectly
• Tow/haul mode included

Most people towing boats, campers, or utility trailers will never need more than this engine offers.

3.0L Hurricane High Output Engine

The Hurricane HO turns things up to 11 for buyers wanting maximum capability. This is Ram’s performance engine for 2026.

Hurricane HO Performance Specs

The high-output version delivers wild numbers:

• Horsepower: 540 hp @ 5,100 rpm
• Torque: 521 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm
• Displacement: 3.0 liters (same block)
• Configuration: Inline-six with twin turbos
• Fuel requirement: Premium 91 octane
• MPG: 16 city / 23 highway / 19 combined (2WD)

That’s 120 more horses than the SO version. Ram cranks up the boost pressure and tunes everything more aggressively.

Hurricane HO Upgrades

The HO engine gets beefed-up parts to handle the extra power:

Performance enhancements:

• Higher boost from turbos
• Forged pistons and rods
• Upgraded fuel system
• Better cooling capacity
• Stronger transmission tuning
• Sport exhaust sound

This engine needs premium gas to avoid knock. That’s an extra few bucks per tank but worth it for the performance.

Hurricane HO Towing Power

The high-output Hurricane delivers class-leading towing:

Towing numbers:

• Max towing: Up to 12,750 lbs (best in class)
• Max payload: Up to 2,300 lbs
• Pulls mountain grades loaded
• More passing power than competitors
• Perfect for heavy travel trailers

If you regularly tow over 8,000 lbs, this engine makes life way easier. That torque curve is addictive.

6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (TRX)

The Ram TRX keeps its insane supercharged Hemi for 2026. This engine exists in its own universe.

TRX Supercharged Specs

The TRX motor is absolutely bonkers:

• Horsepower: 702 hp @ 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 650 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
• Displacement: 6.2 liters (376 cubic inches)
• Configuration: V8 with 2.7L supercharger
• Fuel requirement: Premium 91 octane
• MPG: 10 city / 14 highway / 12 combined

That’s supercar territory in a pickup truck. The supercharger whine is intoxicating.

TRX Engine Features

The supercharged beast gets everything needed to handle 702 hp:

Performance tech:

• IHI 2.7-liter roots supercharger
• Forged internals throughout
• Massive cooling system
• High-flow fuel delivery
• Custom exhaust with bypass valves
• Heavy-duty everything

This engine guzzles premium gas like there’s no tomorrow. Budget $120+ per tank if you drive hard.

Who Needs TRX Power

The TRX engine is total overkill for normal truck duties:

TRX makes sense if you:

• Want ultimate performance
• Love desert pre-running
• Money is no object
• Need fastest truck bragging rights
• Regularly do track days

For towing and daily driving, the Hurricane HO delivers 95% of the capability for half the cost and way better fuel economy.

5.7L Hemi V8 Availability in 2026

The traditional 5.7L Hemi is basically gone for 2026. Ram might offer it in extremely limited configurations but don’t count on it.

Hemi Status for 2026

Here’s the reality of Hemi availability:

• May continue in Classic models (previous generation)
• Possibly available in base Tradesman work trucks
• Not offered in current-generation luxury trims
• Availability varies by region
• Check with dealers for confirmation

If you want a Hemi, 2025 was probably your last good chance. Ram is moving forward with the Hurricane lineup.

Why Ram Dropped the Hemi

The Hurricane engines just make more sense:

Reasons for the switch:

• More power and torque
• Better fuel economy
• Meets stricter emissions standards
• Lighter weight improves handling
• Lower production costs

The Hemi had a great run, but turbocharged sixes are the future. They’re simply better engines for modern needs.

Hurricane vs Traditional Hemi Comparison

Let’s compare what you’re getting with the new Hurricane versus the old Hemi V8.

Power and Torque Numbers

The Hurricane engines smoke the Hemi in raw output:

Power comparison:

• Hurricane SO: 420 hp / 469 lb-ft
• Hurricane HO: 540 hp / 521 lb-ft
• Hemi V8: 395 hp / 410 lb-ft

Even the base Hurricane beats the Hemi by 25 hp and 59 lb-ft. The HO version isn’t even in the same ballpark.

Fuel Economy Battle

The turbo sixes also win on efficiency:

MPG comparison (2WD models):

• Hurricane SO: 19/25/21 mpg
• Hurricane HO: 16/23/19 mpg
• Hemi V8: 15/22/17 mpg

The base Hurricane saves about 4 mpg combined versus the Hemi. That’s $400-500 yearly on 15,000 miles.

Sound and Character

This is where opinions split. The Hemi’s V8 rumble is legendary, while the Hurricane sounds different.

Sound comparison:

• Hemi: Deep V8 burble, classic muscle sound
• Hurricane: Turbo whistle, modern aggressive tone
• Totally subjective preference

Some truck buyers want that V8 soundtrack. If sound matters, the Hurricane won’t satisfy you the same way.

Long-Term Reliability

The Hemi has 20+ years proving it lasts. The Hurricane is too new to have that track record.

Reliability considerations:

• Hemi: Proven to 300,000+ miles regularly
• Hurricane: Unknown long-term durability
• Turbos add complexity and eventual costs
• Time will tell how Hurricanes hold up

If you’re keeping your truck 15+ years, the Hemi’s track record offers more confidence. But the Hurricane uses proven turbo tech.

Real-World Fuel Economy Expectations

EPA numbers look one way, but actual driving results differ. Here’s what real owners see.

Hurricane SO Real-World MPG

Drivers with the standard Hurricane report these numbers:

Actual fuel economy:

• Highway cruising: 23-27 mpg
• City driving: 17-20 mpg
• Combined: 19-22 mpg
• Towing trailers: 12-15 mpg

Light-footed drivers beat EPA estimates easy. Aggressive driving or heavy towing drops numbers significantly.

Hurricane HO Real-World MPG

The high-output version drinks more but still beats most V8s:

HO real-world numbers:

• Highway cruising: 21-24 mpg
• City driving: 14-17 mpg
• Combined: 17-20 mpg
• Towing heavy: 10-13 mpg

Remember this needs premium 91 octane. Factor the cost difference into your fuel budget calculations.

Which 2026 Ram Engine Should You Buy?

Your perfect engine depends on how you’ll actually use the truck.

Best for Daily Commuting

Winner: 3.0L Hurricane Standard Output

The base Hurricane delivers plenty of power for normal driving while getting the best fuel economy. Regular gas keeps costs down too.

Daily driver reasons:

• Best MPG saves money
• Enough power for everything
• Quiet, smooth operation
• Cheapest to run long-term

Best for Heavy Towing

Winner: 3.0L Hurricane High Output

If you’re pulling big trailers regularly, the HO engine justifies its premium. That 521 lb-ft makes hauling heavy loads effortless.

Heavy towing reasons:

• Max 12,750 lbs capacity
• Tons of low-end torque
• Pulls grades loaded easy
• More confidence when passing

Best for Performance

Winner: 6.2L Supercharged Hemi (if budget allows)

Nothing touches 702 hp if you want the ultimate performance truck. The TRX engine is in its own league.

Performance reasons:

• Most power by huge margin
• Supercharger instant boost
• Stupid-fast acceleration
• Ultimate bragging rights

Best Value Pick

Winner: 3.0L Hurricane Standard Output

The base Hurricane offers the best balance of power, economy, and cost. Most buyers won’t miss the HO engine’s extra grunt.

Value reasons:

• Thousands cheaper than HO
• Good enough power for most uses
• Better fuel economy
• Regular gas versus premium

Engine Upgrade Costs for 2026

Stepping up to better engines adds to your purchase price. Here’s what upgrades cost.

Hurricane SO to HO Upgrade

Moving from standard to high-output typically adds:

HO upgrade pricing:

• Direct engine upgrade: $2,500-3,500
• Often part of option packages
• Required on some trims
• Worth it if towing over 8,000 lbs

The HO comes standard on Rebel, Laramie, and higher trims. It’s optional on Big Horn depending on package.

Expected 2026 Base Prices

The 2026 Ram 1500 pricing should be similar to 2025:

Estimated pricing (MSRP):

• Tradesman SO: $40,000-45,000
• Big Horn SO: $48,000-52,000
• Rebel HO: $60,000-65,000
• TRX: $95,000-100,000+

Add destination fees and options. But these give you ballpark numbers for planning.

2026 Ram Engine Technology Breakdown

Modern truck engines pack tons of tech under the hood. Here’s what matters.

Twin-Turbo System

The Hurricane engines use twin turbos for quick response:

Turbo tech explained:

• Two smaller turbos spool faster
• Exhaust gases spin turbine wheels
• Compressed air makes more power
• Minimal lag from twin setup
• Instant power when you hit gas

Twin turbos work better than one big turbo for truck use. You get power immediately without waiting.

Cylinder Deactivation

Both Hurricane engines shut off cylinders to save fuel:

Deactivation features:

• Runs on 3, 4, or 6 cylinders
• Automatically adjusts to load
• Seamless transitions
• Saves gas cruising highways
• You can’t feel it working

The system reads throttle input and load, then decides how many cylinders to use. It’s smart tech that actually works.

Transmission Pairing

All engines mate to Ram’s TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic:

Transmission features:

• Smooth shifts in all conditions
• Electronic shift on column
• Tow/haul mode for trailers
• Sport mode for performance
• Skip-shift for fuel savings

This transmission has been refined since 2013. By 2026, all the bugs are long gone.

Maintenance Requirements by Engine

Different engines need different care schedules.

Hurricane Engine Maintenance

The turbo engines require specific attention:

Hurricane service needs:

• Oil changes: Every 10,000 miles
• Premium synthetic oil required
• Air filter critical for turbos
• Intercooler cleaning eventually
• Spark plugs every 100,000 miles

Don’t skip oil changes on turbocharged engines. Neglect kills turbos fast, and replacements cost $2,000+ each.

Expected Maintenance Costs

Here’s what you’ll spend keeping things running:

Cost estimates:

• Oil changes: $80-120 (synthetic)
• Major service: $300-500 (30k miles)
• Spark plugs: $400-600 (100k miles)
• Turbo replacement: $2,000-4,000 each (if needed)

Budget for maintenance. These aren’t cheap engines to service, but they’re not outrageous either.

Common Questions About 2026 Ram Engines

Buyers have similar questions about the new lineup.

Will Ram Bring Back the Hemi?

Probably not in any significant way. The Hurricane engines are Ram’s future and they meet modern emissions standards better.

Ram invested heavily in developing the Hurricane platform. They’re committed to this direction for the long haul.

Do You Need Premium Gas?

Only if you get the Hurricane High Output or TRX. The standard Hurricane runs fine on regular 87 octane.

Using regular in the HO engine triggers knock sensors and cuts power. Always use the recommended fuel grade.

How Reliable Are Hurricane Engines?

Too early for definitive answers since they’re relatively new. The engines use proven Stellantis technology, but long-term data doesn’t exist yet.

Early reports look good with minimal issues. But ask again in 5-10 years when trucks have 150,000+ miles.

Can You Tune Hurricane Engines?

Aftermarket tuning companies are developing Hurricane tunes but options are limited compared to Hemi.

Tuning voids warranties and can damage turbos. Wait until you’re out of warranty if you’re going this route.

What’s New for 2026 vs 2025

The 2026 Ram likely brings minor updates rather than major changes.

Expected 2026 Updates

Ram might add these for 2026:

Possible changes:

• Minor power bumps (5-10 hp)
• Updated software tuning
• New transmission calibrations
• Additional color options
• Trim package shuffles

Don’t expect revolutionary changes. The Hurricane platform is set for several years of carryover.

When 2026 Models Arrive

The 2026 Ram 1500 should hit dealers in:

Expected timeline:

• Announcement: Spring 2025
• Production start: Summer 2025
• Dealer availability: Fall 2025
• Full availability: Late 2025/Early 2026

If you’re buying soon, 2025 models are basically identical. Wait for incentives on outgoing inventory.

Future Ram Engine Developments

Ram’s engine future likely includes more electrification.

Hybrid and Electric Options

Ram is developing electrified powertrains:

Future possibilities:

• Plug-in hybrid with Hurricane base
• Full electric Ram (Revolution concept)
• Mild hybrid standard across lineup
• Range-extender options

The Ram Revolution EV is coming, but gas trucks aren’t going anywhere soon. The Hurricane platform has years of life ahead.

Performance Variants

Ram might introduce tuned Hurricane versions:

Possible performance options:

• Higher-output Hurricane (600+ hp)
• Sport-tuned transmissions
• Performance packages
• Special edition models

The Hurricane platform has room to grow. Expect Ram to milk it for various performance applications.

Conclusion

So what engine does the 2026 Ram 1500 have? Most buyers get one of two Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six engines—either the 420-hp Standard Output or the 540-hp High Output version. The traditional Hemi V8 is basically gone, while the TRX keeps its wild 702-hp supercharged motor.

The Hurricane SO makes sense for daily drivers who want solid power and good fuel economy. Heavy towers should step up to the Hurricane HO with its class-leading 12,750-lb towing capacity and 521 lb-ft of torque. The TRX remains the ultimate performance option if money isn’t a concern.

Both Hurricane engines deliver more power and better efficiency than the Hemi they replace. Test drive both if possible and pick based on your actual towing needs and budget. The standard Hurricane handles most truck duties without breaking a sweat, while the HO version delivers supercar-level performance in a practical package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the base engine in the 2026 Ram 1500?

A: The base engine is the 3.0L Hurricane Standard Output twin-turbo inline-six making 420 hp and 469 lb-ft of torque. It runs on regular 87 octane gas and gets 19/25/21 mpg city/highway/combined in 2WD configuration. This engine comes standard in most 2026 Ram 1500 trims.

Q: Is the Hemi V8 available in the 2026 Ram 1500?

A: The 5.7L Hemi V8 has extremely limited availability for 2026, possibly only in Classic models or select work truck configurations. Ram has moved almost entirely to the Hurricane twin-turbo engines. Check with dealers, but don’t expect to find Hemi options in current-generation Rams.

Q: How much horsepower does the 2026 Ram 1500 have?

A: It depends on which engine you choose. The Hurricane Standard Output makes 420 hp, the Hurricane High Output produces 540 hp, and the TRX’s supercharged V8 cranks out 702 hp. Most buyers will have the 420 or 540 horsepower Hurricane engines.

Q: Does the 2026 Ram 1500 require premium gas?

A: Only the Hurricane High Output and TRX engines require premium 91 octane fuel. The Hurricane Standard Output runs perfectly fine on regular 87 octane gas, just like the old Hemi V8. Using regular in the HO engine reduces power and triggers knock sensors.

Q: What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Ram 1500?

A: Maximum towing capacity reaches 12,750 lbs with the Hurricane High Output engine when properly equipped. The Hurricane Standard Output maxes at 11,560 lbs. Actual capacity depends on cab style, bed length, drivetrain, and axle ratio. The TRX focuses on performance over towing.

Q: Are the Hurricane engines reliable?

A: It’s too early to know definitively since the Hurricane engines are relatively new. They use proven turbocharger technology from Stellantis, but don’t have the 20+ year track record of the Hemi V8. Early reports show minimal issues, but long-term reliability won’t be clear for several more years.