When Ram shifted the 1500 lineup to six-cylinder engines for the 2025 model year, fans of the iconic HEMI V8 weren't quiet about it—and their voices were heard. Thanks to strong demand, the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is making a triumphant return for the 2026 Ram 1500, and it's not coming back quietly. Each HEMI-powered truck will proudly wear a new Symbol of Protest badge, designed by the Ram team, mounted on the fender and featuring the Ram's head charging forward, fueled by a HEMI block underneath. You'll find this powerhouse engine across a wide range of trims, including the Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, Limited, Longhorn, and even the Rebel (available a little later), with 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. With torque, the HEMI delivers strong, smooth performance enhanced by smart fuel-saving features, such as variable cam timing and cylinder deactivation. And for even more innovation, the available eTorque mild hybrid system gives this V8 some serious brains to go with the brawn, offering up to 130 lb.-ft. of launch torque, quick start/stop action, and regenerative braking. Add in performance extras like variable-valve timing, Fuel Saver Technology, and a high-efficiency 850-watt electric cooling fan, and it's clear: the 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI isn't just back—it's evolved.

The eTorque hybrid system in the 2026 Ram 1500 is more than just a fuel-saver—it's an innovative, efficient powerhouse designed to enhance every drive. At the heart of the system is a compact 430-watt-hour lithium-ion battery, discreetly located behind the rear seat in a noise-insulating enclosure. With dual cooling fans and internal venting, it stays cool without ever interrupting the cabin experience. A 3-kilowatt DC-to-DC converter takes the 48-volt power and steps it down to maintain the traditional 12-volt battery charge, ensuring all your truck's accessories run smoothly. The HEMI still utilizes a conventional starter motor for reliable cold-weather starts, but eTorque takes care of just about everything else—improving gear shifts, enhancing cylinder deactivation efficiency, and making acceleration and braking feel incredibly smooth. It even reduces noise, vibration, and harshness, making the ride feel more refined. Add in the muscle to tow up to 11,470 pounds and haul a payload of up to 1,750 pounds, and you've got a truck that's just as capable as it is clever.

The HEMI V8 has been a symbol of American muscle and engineering excellence for decades. Its roots go all the way back to the 1950s, when Chrysler introduced the original "hemispherical combustion chamber" design—hence the name HEMI. That unique architecture allowed for better airflow, higher compression, and more efficient power delivery, which quickly earned the engine a reputation for raw strength and performance. Over the years, the HEMI evolved from a drag strip favorite to a street-legal icon, appearing in everything from muscle cars to pickup trucks. It officially returned to Ram trucks in the early 2000s, giving everyday drivers access to its unmistakable roar and power. Today, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 still carries that legacy forward, refined with modern tech, but never losing the character that made it legendary in the first place.

There's never been a better time to feel the power, performance, and heritage of the legendary HEMI V8 than with the 2026 Ram 1500—and you can find yours right here at Tri-Star Blairsville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Whether you're drawn to its impressive towing capability, modern hybrid enhancements, or just the thrill of that classic V8 rumble, this truck is built to impress. Our team is here to help you explore all the trims, options, and features that make the return of the HEMI truly special. Ready to get behind the wheel? Fill out the form below and let's get started.