CEO Tim Kuniskis says he listened to fans. The Hemi is back.
When Ram removed the popular Hemi V-8 engine from its 1500 trucks, many fans were upset. The decision was made to meet new emissions rules and move to a new computer system in the trucks. But after a year of complaints from customers, Ram now says it was a mistake — and they’re bringing the engine back in 2026.
In 2025, the Ram 1500 was upgraded to a new computer system called “Atlantis High.” The old 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 wasn’t made to work with it, and fixing that didn’t seem worth the time or money. But that all changed when CEO Tim Kuniskis came back to lead Ram in late 2024. On his first day, he ordered the team to find a way to bring the V-8 back.
They started by using a version of the Hemi engine from the Jeep Wagoneer, which includes a small electric motor (called eTorque) and already works with newer systems. Even though this was expected to take about a year and a half to finish, the team — led by former SRT engineer Darryl Smith — got it done in just six months.
You’ll be able to choose the Hemi engine in many versions of the 2026 Ram 1500: Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, Limited, and Longhorn. It will also be available in the Rebel off-road model a little later. Ram is still deciding whether it will come to the RHO model.
The Hemi won’t replace the new 3.0-liter Hurricane six-cylinder engines, which are still stronger on paper. The Hemi makes 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. By comparison, the base Hurricane makes 420 horsepower, and the high-output version goes up to 540 horsepower. Choosing the Hemi will cost $1200 more than the base Hurricane, or be free if you’re upgrading from the stronger one.
To make Hemi trucks stand out, Ram will add new badges on the fenders called the “Symbol of Protest.” It’s designed by Mark Trostle, who worked on Dodge’s famous Scat Pack and Hellcat logos. Every Hemi truck will also come with a louder, sporty exhaust system, so you’ll hear them coming.
You can already order a 2026 Ram 1500 with a Hemi, and deliveries should start before the end of summer 2025. This is the first time a major U.S. car company has changed its mind on a decision related to emissions. Ram hopes fans will appreciate the move — and show it with their wallets.
