Ram Trucks has fixed what it has described as a major mistake. The automaker has brought back the Hemi V8 for the 2026 model year.
Stellantis, Ram’s parent company, announced the news on Thursday, June 5. The press release confirmed that the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 will return while delivering 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. of torque.
Ram had previously ditched the V8 in favor of the smaller V6, but the company said that customer input directly led to this revival.
“Everyone makes mistakes, but how you handle them defines you. Ram screwed up when we dropped the Hemi — we own it and we fixed it,” said Tim Kuniskis, CEO, Ram brand.
“We’re not just bringing back a legendary V8 engine, we’re igniting an assertive product plan and expanding the freedom of choice in powertrain for our customers.”
Ram also announced that the new powertrain will feature eTorque hybrid technology. This system ditches the traditional engine-mounted alternator for a belt-driven motor generator unit. It works with a 48-volt battery pack to “provide quick and seamless engine start/stop.”
Additionally, the eTorque hybrid technology enhances shifts, reduces noise, and improves fuel-saving cylinder deactivation.
“Ram will continue to offer the more powerful and more efficient Hurricane Straight Six Turbo, but we heard loud and clear from consumers: there is no replacement for the iconic Hemi V8,” Kuniskis added.
“At the end of each month, we count sales to customers, not to statisticians or ideologues. Data be damned — we raise our flag and let the Hemi ring free again!”
The Hemi V8 will be available in multiple models. The list includes the Ram 1500 Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, and Rebel. However, the powertrain for the Rebel will be available at a later date.
Customers can begin preordering the V8-equipped Ram. The first models will arrive in dealerships this summer.
The Hemi V8’s return coincides with an expected announcement
Why did Ram bring back the Hemi V8 engine? The consumers played a significant role. Another potential reason is an expected announcement from the automaker.
Rumors have circulated for around a year about Ram getting back into NASCAR, starting with the Craftsman Truck Series.
Catchfence reported in February that NASCAR had received a formal submission from a manufacturer that wished to join Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota in the Truck Series. According to Catchfence sources, Ram was the leading candidate.
The reports of a Ram return have only continued as Truck Series drivers have raced for wins and spots in the playoffs. One report even tied YouTuber Cleetus McFarland to the manufacturer.
Ram has not yet announced its return, but the automaker has released a video teasing an announcement for Sunday, June 8. This is the same day Cup Series teams race at Michigan International Speedway, which is two hours away from Stellantis North America headquarters.