A Hemi V8 with a mild-hybrid system sounds like two different eras sharing the same engine bay.
The 2026 Ram 1500 reintroduces the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with mild-hybrid assist (eTorque) and gives the 2026 Ram 1500 a broader powertrain spread in a market segment that increasingly relies on turbocharged six-cylinder engines.
We recently had the opportunity to spend some time with the V8 eTorque Big Horn crew cab 4×4 variant with the 5’7″ box, finished in the Canyon Lake paint. Here are our first impressions.
Design
At the front, the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn uses a grille pattern that looks inspired by a cable chain with body-color or chrome surround treatment depending on the configuration. Headlamps are rectangular and house LED reflector units. Daytime running lights are integrated into the headlamp assembly. The front bumper is finished in chrome or body color.
From the side, the Ram 1500 Big Horn presents a full-size pickup profile with a four-door Crew Cab or Quad Cab layout. The body features a straight beltline running from the front fender to the tailgate.
Hemi-equipped 2026 Ram 1500 models receive a new fender-mounted Symbol of Protest badge that depicts a forward-leaning Ram’s head powered by a V8 engine. Wheel options include 18-inch cast aluminum alloys as standard or 20-inch options at a premium.
At the rear, the Ram 1500 Big Horn uses vertical taillamps with incandescent or LED elements depending on equipment. The tailgate features a centered Ram badge and supports an optional power release. The rear bumper is chrome or body-colored and integrates corner steps.
Interior
The interior of the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn prioritizes utility with dark interior color options. Infotainment is handled by an 8.4-inch touchscreen display with physical buttons and knobs for audio volume and climate control placed below the touchscreen. A larger 12-inch display also supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is optional.
Seating includes front bucket seats covered in black cloth as standard and a rear bench seat in Crew Cab or Quad Cab configurations, and optional bench seats in both rows. The gear selector is a rotary dial on the center console. USB ports and a 12-volt outlet are located within the console area.
Experience in the Ram 1500 V8 Hemi eTorque
Ingress and egress in the Ram 1500 Hemi eTorque are aided by electrically deployable side steps and pillar-mounted grab handles. The driver’s seat is very comfortable, offering strong side bolstering, supportive lumbar cushioning, and a headrest with fore-and-aft adjustment.
The seat provides multiple power adjustments, while the steering wheel feels quite large and offers a solid grip. The steering column, however, lacks power adjustment.
A digital instrument cluster presents information clearly without requiring menu navigation. A rotary selector positioned near the steering wheel allows selection between 2WD, Auto, 4WD High, 4WD Low, and PRND functions.
The large central touchscreen, positioned vertically, dominates the dashboard, while outward visibility remains unobstructed. Pedal box space is generous, and knee clearance is not an issue for taller drivers.
The center console is notably large and provides extensive storage capacity, including a deep central bin suitable for carrying beverages or cooling items during outdoor use. Overall cabin space feels expansive and functional.
Rear-seat access also relies on the deployable side steps and B-pillar grab handles. The rear bench does not recline, but the fixed backrest angle is relaxed rather than upright. Knee room remains generous even with tall occupants seated in front.
The floor is nearly flat, improving foot placement for middle passengers. The rear bench accommodates three adults, with a fully cushioned center position. The outboard seats feature adjustable headrests. Headroom is ample, under-thigh support is adequate.
Specifications
The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 pairs with its eTorque mild-hybrid system to produce 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.
The eTorque system replaces a conventional alternator with a belt-driven motor generator unit. The system operates with a 48-volt architecture and a small 430-watt-hour lithium-ion battery.
Under initial throttle application, the motor generator can deliver up to 130 lb-ft of supplemental torque to the crankshaft. The system supports regenerative braking, engine start-stop operation, and improved shift quality.
Ram rates Hemi V8-equipped 2026 Ram 1500 models to tow up to 11,320 pounds and a maximum payload of 1,650 pounds. It also gets a performance-tuned exhaust system and a 33-gallon fuel tank as standard.
Price & Release Date
Ram confirms that Hemi-equipped 2026 Ram 1500 trucks are available to order now, with the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 available as a no-charge upgrade on Limited and Longhorn trims, and with a USD 2,895 premium on the Big Horn variant.
Also See: 7 things we learned about the 2026 Ram 1500 Ramcharger (EREV)
Dealership arrivals began in summer 2025. The base price for the Big Horn trim starts at USD 48,970, with the 5.7 Hemi adding USD 2,895, bringing the MSRP to USD 51,865, with a destination charge of USD 2,595 on top.
As for Canada, the local operations has confirmed late-availability of the 2026 Ram 1500 Hemi V8. At this time, there’s no specific official Canadian pricing.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
