Top 7 Towing Features on the 2026 Ram 1500 with 5.7L HEMI eTorque
February 24 2026,
The 2026 Ram 1500 with the revived 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 eTorque delivers serious towing capability for drivers in New Brunswick who need a truck that works as hard as they do. With a maximum towing capacity of 4,613 kg (10,170 lb) and advanced hybrid technology, this pickup pairs proven V-8 performance with modern efficiency features designed to handle demanding hauling tasks.
Whether you're towing equipment for work, hauling recreational trailers, or managing heavy loads, the HEMI-powered Ram 1500 offers a comprehensive suite of features engineered to make towing safer, easier, and more confident. Here are seven standout towing features that set this truck apart.
eTorque Hybrid System Delivers Launch Torque
The 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 features eTorque hybrid technology that provides up to 130 lb-ft of launch torque when you press the accelerator. This belt-driven motor generator unit works with a 48-volt battery pack to deliver immediate torque assistance to the engine crankshaft, making it easier to get heavy trailers moving from a complete stop.
The eTorque system replaces the traditional engine-mounted alternator with a more sophisticated motor generator that can both charge the battery and assist the engine. This technology is particularly valuable when towing because it smooths out power delivery and reduces the strain on the engine during demanding acceleration events.
395 Horsepower and 410 lb-ft of Torque
The 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 produces 395 hp (291 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 410 lb-ft of torque at 3,950 rpm. This power output provides the muscle needed to confidently tow trailers up to the maximum rated capacity across varied terrain and driving conditions.
Enhanced with variable camshaft timing and cylinder deactivation technology, the HEMI delivers strong performance while maintaining efficiency when the full power isn't needed. The engine's hemispherical combustion chamber design and deep-skirt cast-iron block construction provide the durability required for regular towing duty.
TorqueFlite 8HP75 Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission
The 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI pairs with the TorqueFlite 8HP75 eight-speed automatic transmission, which features five clutches and a four planetary gear set architecture. This transmission offers a 7.03 overall ratio spread that optimizes power delivery across a wide range of towing scenarios.
The transmission includes an electronically modulated torque converter clutch with torsional turbine damper that helps reduce vibration and improve efficiency when towing. Electronic range select capability allows drivers to manually control gear selection when navigating challenging terrain with a trailer attached.
Standard Four-Wheel Drive System with 4WD Auto
All 2026 Ram 1500 models equipped with the 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 eTorque come standard with four-wheel drive in Canada. The transfer case offers multiple operating modes including 2WD High, 4WD Auto, 4WD High Locked, Neutral, and 4WD Low Locked with a 2.64 low-range ratio.
The 4WD Auto mode automatically engages four-wheel drive when additional traction is needed, making it ideal for varying road conditions when towing. The ability to lock the system into four-wheel drive high range delivers confident towing performance on wet or snowy roads, while the low-range mode provides maximum control for challenging off-road towing situations.
Active-Level Four-Corner Air Suspension
The available active-level four-corner air suspension system automatically adjusts ride height to maintain proper vehicle stance when towing. This technology helps keep the truck level under load, which improves handling stability, reduces trailer sway, and maintains proper headlight aim.
The air suspension system can also lower the truck to make hitching easier and raise ground clearance when needed for off-road towing situations. This adaptability makes the Ram 1500 more versatile for drivers who tow in varied conditions.
Electronic Locking Rear Differential
The available electronic locking rear differential provides maximum traction when launching with heavy trailers on slippery or uneven surfaces. When activated, this system locks both rear wheels together to ensure power is distributed evenly, preventing wheel spin that can occur when one wheel encounters low-traction conditions.
This feature is particularly valuable when backing trailers up boat ramps, navigating construction sites, or towing through winter conditions. The electronic actuation allows drivers to engage the locking differential from inside the cab without stopping.
Performance-Tuned Exhaust System
All HEMI-powered 2026 Ram 1500 models come standard with a performance-tuned exhaust system that optimizes engine breathing for improved power delivery. This exhaust design helps the engine maintain strong performance under the sustained load conditions that occur during extended towing sessions.
The exhaust system works in conjunction with the engine's variable camshaft timing and cylinder deactivation features to balance performance with efficiency. Three-way catalytic converters and heated oxygen sensors ensure the system meets emission standards while delivering the power needed for serious towing work.
Learn More at Connell Chrysler
The 2026 Ram 1500 with 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 eTorque pairs proven V-8 capability with modern hybrid technology to deliver a towing-focused truck backed by Canada's best full-size truck limited powertrain warranty of 10 years or 160,000 kilometres.
