After a year out, the beloved 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 has made its grand return to the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup. Ram listened when customers pushed back against its absence. Our team at Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram (CJDR) Lewisville has put together this guide to walk you through everything about the returning V-8, from its specifications to how it compares to other engine options and which trucks it is available in.
Why the HEMI V-8 Left (and Why It's Back)
a close up of a sticker on the side of a car by Jakub Pabis is licensed with Unsplash License
Ram's decision to drop the HEMI from 2025 trucks and switch to six-cylinder engines was driven by the automaker's desire to improve vehicle fuel efficiency and meet stricter emissions standards. However, negative customer sentiment led to the engine's return for the 2026 model.
Over 10,000 orders came in within 24 hours following the announcement of the 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI V-8's return. Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis admitted: "Everyone makes mistakes, but how you handle it defines you. Ram screwed up when we dropped the HEMI — we own it, and we fixed it."
Sales proved the decision right, with a 10% year-over-year growth in the third quarter of 2025. In addition, each 2026 HEMI-equipped Ram truck receives a "Symbol of Protest" badge, honoring customer feedback and demonstrating that old-school power still matters.
2026 Ram 1500 HEMI V-8: Complete Specifications
The returning HEMI V-8 delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque with variable camshaft timing and cylinder shutdown. Built with an iron block, aluminum heads, and forged connecting rods, this 345-cubic-inch engine pairs exclusively with an eight-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission.
The eTorque mild-hybrid system adds 130 lb-ft of instant torque. This 48-volt setup replaces the traditional alternator with a belt-driven motor generator and lithium-ion battery, providing a smooth start/stop without jerkiness.
In real-world testing, the 2026 HEMI V-8 Ram 1500 goes from 0 to 60 mph in 6 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 16 mpg city/20 mpg highway/18 mpg combined, and the 33-gallon tank provides a 600-mile range. The towing capacity reaches 11,320 pounds, with a payload of up to 2,360 pounds. Warranty coverage includes a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain protection plan.
Performance Capabilities: What the Numbers Mean
Numbers on paper are one thing, but the HEMI V-8 delivers a driving experience that turbo engines just can't match. Its towing power and payload capacity allow it to handle serious work around Dallas-Fort Worth without breaking a sweat. At full throttle, the HEMI produces a raucous 81 decibels, which is 10 decibels louder than the Hurricane engines. That sound alone explains why so many customers held out for the HEMI's return.
Acceleration-wise, this old-school V-8 holds its own against newer options. From 30 to 50 mph, the HEMI takes just 3.2 seconds, matching the high-output Hurricane engine. That's what matters when you're merging onto I-35 or passing slower traffic on Highway 121. Real-world testing has seen around 20 mpg during highway cruising at 75 mph, which beats the EPA estimates for Texas driving conditions.
What really sets the HEMI apart is its behavior. The V-8 loves to rev and responds exactly how you'd expect when you press the gas. No turbo lag, no surprises — just linear power and that iconic rumble, whether you're towing a boat to Lake Lewisville or hauling equipment to a job site. Some things just can't be improved upon.
Which Ram 1500 Trims Get the HEMI V-8
If you want the HEMI, you'll need to pick specific configurations. You can add it as an option to the Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, and Laramie models with a Crew Cab, a 5-foot-7-inch bed, and four-wheel drive. The Limited and Longhorn trims come standard with the HEMI engine or as a no-cost upgrade.
Orders opened in July 2025, with the first trucks expected to arrive at dealerships in Winter 2025. However, many Lewisville dealers are already taking orders for spring 2026 delivery. With demand so high, check our current Ram truck inventory and get your name on the list early to avoid missing out.
HEMI V-8 vs. Hurricane: Choosing Your Ram Powerplant
The Hurricane engine dominates on paper. This high-output 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six engine produces up to 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque, compared to the HEMI's 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Even the standard Hurricane output (420 horsepower, 469 lb-ft of torque) surpasses that of the V-8.
Real-world results differ. The EPA rates the Hurricane at 21 mpg combined and the HEMI at 18 mpg. However, drivers report the Hurricane averaging 15-17 mpg on highways. The Hurricane also has a higher towing capacity of 11,610 pounds compared to the HEMI's 11,320 pounds. The HEMI costs $1,200 more on most trims but delivers an experience many consider priceless.
Long-term considerations are also important. Some HEMI owners report issues around 65,000 miles, such as camshaft failures, lifter problems, and intake/exhaust troubles, though 2026 updates address known problems. The Hurricane accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, compared to the HEMI's 6 seconds. Nevertheless, most truck buyers prioritize reliability and the visceral feeling of a V-8 engine over straight-line speed.
What Makes the 5.7-Liter HEMI V-8 Special
Built with old-school toughness, the HEMI name has earned its reputation for brute American power over decades as an engine option in the Ram 1500. Modern tech meets classic design in the latest version. The 48-volt eTorque system features a belt-driven generator, a lithium-ion battery pack, and smart controls, providing 130 lb-ft of instant torque assist and enabling the engine to restart in under 70 milliseconds. You'll get 1-2 mpg better fuel economy than older HEMI trucks thanks to this mild-hybrid setup.
The HEMI also has potential for modification, and a simple ECU tune can add approximately 40 horsepower without requiring any part changes. But most people just love knowing their truck has untapped potential while still being reliable, something complex turbo setups with delicate sensors and tight tolerances can't always claim.
Experience the HEMI V-8 Return at Huffines CJDR Lewisville
Contact us today at Huffines CJDR Lewisville to schedule a test drive and experience the HEMI V-8 rumble yourself. Our team is here to explain the benefits of this engine and help you decide which one is for you. With high demand, placing an order and getting on the list now makes sense. Contact us to discuss financing and delivery timing, and be among the first to own this American muscle with the returning HEMI V-8.
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RAM Trucks