The 2026

Powertrain

Base power comes from the 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 eTorque, rated at 234 kW (305 hp) at 6,500 rpm and 365 N•m (271 lb-ft) of torque at 4,900 rpm. This 60-degree V-6 uses chain-driven dual overhead cams, 24 valves, and variable valve timing. The hybrid system integrates a 48-volt, 0.43 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 9 kW belt-starter generator that adds 90 lb-ft of launch torque. Fuel Saver Technology shuts down cylinders during light throttle conditions. The engine pairs with an 850RE eight-speed automatic transmission using 3.21 or 3.55 axle ratios.

The 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 eTorque returns for 2026 after being dropped from the 2025 lineup. Output reaches 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 employs pushrod-operated overhead valves, variable cam timing, and 16 valves with hydraulic lifters using roller followers. A deep-skirt cast-iron block with cross-bolted main bearing caps anchors the rotating assembly. Aluminum-alloy heads feature hemispherical combustion chambers. The eTorque system here uses a 12 kW generator providing 130 lb-ft of launch torque. A 125-litre fuel tank and performance exhaust system come standard. The 8HP75 eight-speed automatic handles shifting.

The 3.0-litre Straight-Six Turbo brings twin-turbocharged inline-six power to the lineup. Standard output reaches 313 kW (420 hp) at 5,200 rpm and 635 N•m (469 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. Twin turbochargers force air into a direct-injection system with centrally mounted injectors fed by a single high-pressure pump pushing fuel to 350 bar. Dual overhead cams with dual independent valve timing control 24 valves through roller finger followers. The aluminum block uses plasma spray-bore coated cylinders and cross-bolted steel main bearing caps. Premium 91-octane fuel is recommended for optimal performance.

The high-output SST HO variant boosts power to 403 kW (540 hp) at 5,700 rpm and 707 N•m (521 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. This version requires premium 91-octane fuel and runs a 9.5:1 compression ratio to manage higher boost levels. Forged aluminum pistons with DLC-coated pins attach to forged steel connecting rods. A dual 76 mm straight-through exhaust system with 127 mm black tips routes gases. Both SST engines use the 8HP75 transmission with available 3.21, 3.55, or 3.92 axle ratios. Saltillo North Engine Plant in Mexico handles production.

Technology

The Atlantis electrical architecture runs the 2026 Ram 1500, using a 230-amp alternator on most models and upgrading to 240 amps with the 3.0-litre SST. A Group 94R H7 730 CCA battery provides cranking power. eTorque models house their 48-volt batteries in insulated boxes behind the rear seat, using air cooling with dual internal fans. A 3-kilowatt DC-to-DC converter reduces voltage to charge the 12-volt battery and power accessories. HEMI V-8 engines keep a traditional starter motor for cold-weather cranking.

Four-wheel-drive models use one of three transfer cases. The BW 48-12 part-time version offers 2WD High, 4WD High Locked, Neutral, and 4WD Low Locked modes with a 2.64 low-range ratio. The BW 48-11 on-demand case adds 4WD Auto mode for automatic engagement based on wheel slip. The BW 48-13 full-time transfer case on SST HO models provides variable torque split: 40/60 Auto, 45/55 Wet/Snow, 45/55 Tow, 25/75 Baja, and 50/50 Off-road when in 4WD Low. All transfer cases shift electronically.

Front axles measure 215 mm across all models. Rear axles come in 235 mm or 260 mm sizes based on trim level and intended use. Rear differential choices include open, limited-slip, and electronic-locking types. Front suspension uses upper and lower A-arms with twin-tube shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. The rear employs a five-link design with track bar, stabilizer bar, twin-tube shocks, and a solid axle. RHO models upgrade to Bilstein e2 Blackhawk active performance shock absorbers at all four corners, adjusting damping rates automatically based on road conditions and driving inputs.