The Legend Returns: HEMI V8 Power Arrives in Ontario for 2026 Ram 1500

The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine has returned to the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup, marking a decisive response to customer demand across Ontario. After shifting exclusively to six-cylinder engines for 2025, Ram has reintroduced the iconic V8 with eTorque hybrid technology, delivering 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.

This engine becomes available in January 2026 across eight Ram 1500 trims, and every HEMI-powered model features a distinctive Symbol of Protest fender badge - a visual statement of the engine's comeback story.

For Ontario truck buyers who value proven V8 capability, the return of the HEMI restores a powertrain choice that pairs traditional V8 character with modern fuel-saving technology. All models are backed by Canada's strongest full-size truck powertrain warranty: 10 years or 160,000 kilometres.

Why the HEMI V8 Returned to Ram 1500

The 2025 model year saw Ram 1500 shift entirely to six-cylinder powertrains, including the base 3.6L Pentastar V6 and the twin-turbocharged Hurricane Straight-Six engines. While these engines delivered strong performance and efficiency, customer feedback made clear that many buyers still wanted the option of a traditional V8.

Ram responded by bringing back the 5.7L HEMI for 2026, positioning it as a direct answer to market demand.

The returning HEMI isn't simply a carryover engine. It integrates eTorque hybrid technology - a 48-volt belt-driven motor generator unit that replaces the traditional alternator. This system provides engine start/stop functionality, adds up to 130 lb-ft of torque during initial throttle tip-in, and captures brake energy for regeneration.

The result is a V8 that maintains its characteristic power delivery while incorporating fuel-saving features like variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation.

Each HEMI-equipped 2026 Ram 1500 carries the new Symbol of Protest badge on the front fender. The design shows a Ram's head pushing forward, powered by a HEMI V8 block - a visual acknowledgment of the engine's return after customer advocacy.

HEMI V8 eTorque: Power and Technology

The 5.7L HEMI V8 produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The engine features a 90-degree V8 configuration with hemispherical combustion chambers, variable cam timing, and a deep-skirt cast-iron block with cross-bolted main bearing caps.

It runs on mid-grade 89-octane fuel (recommended) or regular 87-octane (acceptable).

The eTorque hybrid system stores energy in a compact 430-watt-hour lithium-ion battery housed behind the rear seat. Dual cooling fans maintain optimal battery temperatures while remaining acoustically transparent to 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.

Performance-enhancing features include Fuel Saver Technology (cylinder deactivation) and an 850-watt electric cooling fan with Pulse Width Modulation, which adjusts fan energy draw based on cooling demand. The eTorque system enhances shifts, improves the effectiveness of cylinder deactivation, and smooths transitions under acceleration and braking.

Capability remains strong: the HEMI-powered Ram 1500 offers towing capacity up to 5,203 kg (11,470 lbs) and maximum payload capacity of 794 kg (1,750 lbs). The engine pairs with a performance-tuned exhaust system and a 125-litre (33-gallon) fuel tank.

Trim Availability and Powertrain Choices

The 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque becomes available across eight 2026 Ram 1500 trims: Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn, Sport, Laramie, Limited, and Longhorn. The Rebel trim receives HEMI availability later in the model year.

The RHO and Tungsten trims remain exclusive to the 3.0L Hurricane Straight-Six Twin Turbo High Output engine, which produces 540 horsepower.

For 2026, Ram 1500 buyers can choose from four distinct powertrains:

3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque (Standard on Tradesman, Express, Big Horn)

• 305 horsepower, 271 lb-ft of torque
• 8-speed automatic transmission
• Fuel economy: 11.9/9.4/10.8 L/100 km (city/highway/combined) in 2WD

3.0L Hurricane Straight-Six Twin Turbo Standard Output (Standard on Sport, Rebel, Laramie)

• 420 horsepower, 469 lb-ft of torque
• 8-speed automatic transmission
• Fuel economy: 13.1/9.4/11.5 L/100 km (combined) in 2WD

5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque (Optional on Tradesman through Longhorn)

• 395 horsepower, 410 lb-ft of torque
• 8-speed automatic transmission

3.0L Hurricane Straight-Six Twin Turbo High Output (Standard on Limited, Longhorn, RHO, Tungsten)

• 540 horsepower, 521 lb-ft of torque
• 8-speed automatic transmission
• Fuel economy: 15.7/11.5/13.8 L/100 km (combined) in 4WD

This powertrain lineup allows buyers to select the engine that best matches their priorities - whether that's base V6 efficiency, twin-turbo six-cylinder performance, traditional V8 character, or high-output capability.

10-Year Powertrain Warranty: Canada's Strongest Coverage

Every 2026 Ram 1500 sold in Canada - including all HEMI-powered models - benefits from a new 10-year/160,000-kilometre limited powertrain warranty. This coverage applies to the engine, transmission, transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, and axles.

The warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original retail purchaser or lessee.

This warranty addresses a practical reality: truck buyers increasingly finance purchases for longer periods, with nearly 80% of new truck loans exceeding five years. The extended coverage aligns warranty protection with typical ownership timelines.

The 10-year/160,000-kilometre powertrain warranty stands as the strongest coverage offered by any full-size truck manufacturer in Canada. It complements Ram's standard 3-year/60,000-kilometre basic warranty, 5-year/100,000-kilometre roadside assistance, and 5-year/160,000-kilometre corrosion perforation coverage.

Why Choose the HEMI V8 Over Competing Engines

The 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI V8 competes directly with other full-size truck V8 options available in Ontario. Understanding how it compares helps clarify its value proposition:

The Ram HEMI distinguishes itself through three key factors: standard eTorque hybrid integration, competitive power output, and warranty coverage that extends twice as long as competing manufacturers.

While the F-150's 5.0L V8 offers slightly higher maximum towing capacity, the Ram HEMI provides a unique pairing of traditional V8 character with modern efficiency technology, all protected by Canada's longest powertrain warranty.

Secure Your HEMI-Powered Ram 1500

The return of the 5.7L HEMI V8 to the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup answers driver preferences across Ontario. With 395 horsepower, 410 lb-ft of torque, and eTorque hybrid technology, this engine delivers proven V8 capability with modern efficiency features.

Availability across eight trims - from Tradesman to Longhorn - ensures buyers can select the configuration that matches their needs, while the 10-year/160,000-kilometre powertrain warranty provides long-term protection unmatched by competing manufacturers.

Contact our team at Cooksville Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram to learn more about HEMI-powered Ram 1500 models arriving this January.