Powertrain

Four engine options power the 2026 Ram 1500, starting with the 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 eTorque. This 60-degree V-6 produces 234 kW (305 hp) at 6,500 rpm and 365 N•m (271 lb-ft) of torque at 4,900 rpm. The eTorque hybrid system includes a 48-volt, 0.43 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 9 kW belt-starter generator providing 90 lb-ft of launch torque. Variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation technology help optimize fuel efficiency. This engine pairs with the TorqueFlite 850RE eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 eTorque returns for 2026, delivering 291 kW (395 hp) at 5,600 rpm and 556 N•m (410 lb-ft) of torque at 3,950 rpm. This 90-degree V-8 features variable cam timing, pushrod-operated overhead valves, and a deep-skirt cast-iron block with cross-bolted main bearing caps. The eTorque system on this engine uses a 12 kW belt-starter generator with 130 lb-ft of launch torque. Fuel Saver Technology enables cylinder deactivation, while the performance-tuned exhaust system connects to a 125-litre fuel tank. The engine mates to the TorqueFlite 8HP75 eight-speed automatic transmission.

Two versions of the 3.0-litre Straight-Six Turbo engine expand the powertrain lineup. The standard SST produces 313 kW (420 hp) at 5,200 rpm and 635 N•m (469 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. Twin turbochargers, gasoline direct injection, and dual overhead cams with dual independent valve timing define this inline-six configuration. The deep-skirt cast-aluminum block features plasma spray-bore coated cylinders and a structural die-cast aluminum oil pan. Assembly takes place at Saltillo North Engine Plant in Mexico.

The high-output SST HO version raises output to 403 kW (540 hp) at 5,700 rpm and 707 N•m (521 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. This engine requires premium 91-octane fuel and includes a dual exhaust system with 76 mm straight-through pipes and 127 mm black tips. The compression ratio drops to 9.5:1 to accommodate increased boost pressure. Both SST engines use a single high-pressure fuel pump delivering up to 350 bar to centrally located injectors. All engines come standard with electric power steering and dual-rate tandem diaphragm vacuum power-assist brakes.

Technology

The 2026 Ram 1500 uses the Atlantis electrical architecture with a 230-amp alternator on most models, upgrading to 240 amps with the 3.0-litre SST. A Group 94R low-maintenance H7 730 CCA battery provides starting power. The eTorque-equipped engines store their 48-volt batteries in noise-insulated enclosures behind the rear seat, using air cooling with dual cooling fans. A 3-kilowatt DC-to-DC converter steps down the 48 volts to charge the conventional 12-volt battery and power accessories.

Three transfer case options serve the four-wheel-drive models. The BW 48-12 part-time unit offers two-speed operation with 4WD High Locked, Neutral, and 4WD Low Locked modes, plus a 2.64 low-range ratio. The BW 48-11 on-demand transfer case adds a 4WD Auto mode for seamless engagement. The BW 48-13 full-time transfer case, exclusive to SST HO models, provides variable torque split modes: 40/60 Auto, 45/55 Wet/Snow, 45/55 Tow, 25/75 Baja, and 50/50 Off-road in 4L. All transfer cases use electric shift mechanisms.

Axle configurations include a 215 mm front axle and either a 235 mm or 260 mm rear axle depending on trim and capability requirements. The rear axle offers open, limited-slip, or electronic-locking differential options. Available axle ratios include 3.21, 3.55, and 3.92, with selection varying by engine and trim level. Suspension architecture features upper and lower A-arms at the front with twin-tube shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. The rear uses a five-link setup with track bar, stabilizer bar, and solid axle. The RHO trim upgrades to Bilstein e2 Blackhawk active performance shock absorbers front and rear.