The Legend Returns: 5.7L HEMI V8 Now Available on the 2026 Ram 1500
January 27 2026,
Ram has made it official - the iconic 5.7-litre HEMI V8 is back in the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup. After shifting to six-cylinder engines for the 2025 model year, Ram listened to customer feedback and brought back the legendary V8 that truck enthusiasts have trusted for decades. Enhanced with eTorque mild hybrid technology, the 5.7L HEMI V8 delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, combining proven performance with modern efficiency.
The return of the HEMI reflects Ram's focus on giving Canadian truck buyers the freedom to choose the powertrain that best fits their needs. Available now for order on nine 2026 Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4x4 trim levels, the HEMI-equipped models start at $68,185 and come backed by Canada's best full-size truck limited powertrain warranty - 10 years or 160,000 kilometres.
Why the HEMI Returned
Ram's decision to bring back the 5.7L HEMI V8 was driven entirely by customer demand. When the 2025 Ram 1500 lineup shifted exclusively to six-cylinder engines, feedback from truck buyers across Canada was clear: there is no replacement for the iconic HEMI V8. Ram responded by reintroducing the engine as part of an aggressive product plan that expands powertrain choice for 2026.
The 5.7-litre HEMI V8 with eTorque is now available on the following 2026 Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4x4 models with the 5-foot, 7-inch bed: Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn, Sport, Rebel, Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited. Each HEMI-powered truck comes standard with four-wheel drive and includes a distinctive fender-mounted "Symbol of Protest" badge designed by the Ram team - a visual reminder of the brand's focus on listening to its customers.
Power and Performance
The 5.7-litre HEMI V8 delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque in a smooth, broad power band. The engine features variable camshaft timing and Fuel Saver Technology, which deactivates four of the engine's eight cylinders under light-load conditions to improve fuel efficiency. A performance-tuned exhaust system comes standard, adding a commanding sound that HEMI enthusiasts know well.
Key Specifications:
- Displacement: 5,654 cc (345 cu. in.)
- Horsepower: 395 hp
- Torque: 410 lb-ft
- Fuel Requirement: Mid-grade 89 octane recommended; regular 87 octane acceptable
- Towing Capacity: Up to 4,613 kg (10,170 lb)
- Payload Capacity: Up to 748 kg (1,650 lb)
The HEMI V8 is packaged with a 125-litre (33-gallon) fuel tank, ensuring extended range for long hauls and work sites.
eTorque Hybrid Technology
The 5.7L HEMI V8 integrates eTorque mild hybrid technology, a class-exclusive feature for V8-powered full-size trucks. The eTorque system replaces the traditional engine-mounted alternator with a belt-driven motor generator unit. This unit works with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack to provide quick and smooth engine start/stop operation, while enabling up to 130 lb-ft of supplemental torque during initial throttle tip-in.
The 430-watt-hour battery is housed in a noise-insulated enclosure behind the rear seat. Air-cooled and internally vented, the system uses dual cooling fans to maintain optimal battery temperatures while remaining quiet for passengers. A 3-kilowatt DC-to-DC converter steps down the 48 volts to charge the truck's conventional 12-volt battery and power accessories.
eTorque's benefits extend beyond start/stop functionality. The system enhances shifts, improves fuel-saving cylinder deactivation, and smooths transitions under acceleration and braking, helping reduce noise, vibration, and harshness. The 5.7-litre HEMI V8 retains a traditional starter motor for reliable cold-weather starts.
Trim Availability and Pricing
The 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque is available across nine 2026 Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4x4 trim levels. Pricing starts at $68,185 for the Tradesman trim.
2026 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI V8 Pricing:
|
Trim |
MSRP |
|
Tradesman |
$68,185 |
|
Express |
$69,685 |
|
Warlock |
$71,880 |
|
Big Horn |
$71,985 |
|
Sport |
$79,190 |
|
Rebel |
$81,190 |
|
Laramie |
$86,690 |
|
Limited |
$98,440 |
|
Longhorn |
$99,540 |
Each trim offers unique features and capabilities, ensuring there is a HEMI-powered Ram 1500 for every type of truck buyer - from work-focused tradespeople to luxury-oriented drivers.
Backed by Canada's Best Warranty
Every 2026 Ram 1500 equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8 is backed by Canada's best full-size truck limited powertrain warranty - 10 years or 160,000 kilometres. The warranty covers the engine, transmission, transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, and axles.
The warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original retail purchaser or lessee. It includes retail purchases and leases to individuals and businesses, excluding fleet purchases.
Strong Demand in the First 24 Hours
The response to the HEMI's return has been overwhelming. In the first 24 hours since ordering opened on January 7, 2026, Canadian orders for the 2026 Ram 1500 equipped with the 5.7-litre HEMI V8 surpassed 2,500 units. This strong demand confirms what Ram already knew: Canadian truck buyers want the freedom to choose the powertrain that best fits their needs.
Experience the HEMI at Connell Chrysler
The 2026 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI V8 is available now for order. Whether you need a capable work truck, a family hauler, or a powerful daily driver, the HEMI delivers the performance and reliability Ram is known for. Visit our team at Connell Chrysler to learn more about the return of the HEMI and explore the full 2026 Ram 1500 lineup.
