2026 RAM 1500 Performance

April 26th, 2026 by

2026 RAM 1500 exterior black
 

2026 RAM 1500 Performance Highlights

  • Maximum Towing Capacity: Up to 11,610 pounds when equipped with the 3.0L Hurricane I6 engine.
  • Maximum Payload Capacity: Up to 2,360 pounds with the standard 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine.
  • The Return of the V8: The legendary 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine returns to the lineup by popular demand.
  • Twin-Turbo Power: Available 3.0L Hurricane and High-Output Hurricane engines deliver up to 540 horsepower.

 

When drivers are searching for their next powerful pickup, most turn to the RAM 1500. Boasting a lineup of high-performance engines designed for exceptional capability, the 2026 RAM 1500 provides enough power to take on even your most demanding Des Moines drives. Learn more about the 2026 RAM 1500 towing capacity and engine specifications with DeYarman CDJR Ames before visiting our dealership to get behind the wheel of this unparalleled pickup.

 

 

2026 RAM 1500 Engine Options & Performance Specs

Four formidable RAM 1500 engine options are available for the 2026 lineup, including the triumphant return of the exclusive HEMI® V8 engine alongside the innovative twin-turbo Hurricane family. Brought back by popular demand to drivers across Ankeny, this truck ensures you have the exact blend of rumble, efficiency, and heavy-duty strength required for the job site. Explore the 2026 RAM 1500 engine options and specifications below to discover what kind of horsepower and torque you can expect on your daily drives:

3.6L Pentastar® V6 Engine With eTorque

  • Horsepower: 305 hp
  • Torque: 269 lb-ft
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic

5.7L HEMI® V8 Engine With eTorque

  • Horsepower: 395 hp
  • Torque: 410 lb-ft
  • Features: Class-exclusive eTorque mild-hybrid system and fuel-saving cylinder deactivation

3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo I6 Engine

  • Horsepower: 420 hp
  • Torque: 469 lb-ft
  • Features: Standard Output variant offering exceptional low-end responsiveness

High-Output 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo I6 Engine

  • Horsepower: 540 hp
  • Torque: 521 lb-ft
  • Trims: Standard on premium models like the RHO, Limited, Limited Longhorn, and Tungsten

2026 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity & Payload Ratings

Whether you prefer the traditional rumble of the RAM 1500 V8, the cutting-edge twin-turbo engineering of the Hurricane, or the balanced efficiency of the Pentastar® V6, you’ll receive plenty of capability on every Boone trip. Depending on your configuration, cab size, and axle ratio, you can expect a maximum towing capacity of up to 11,610 pounds, allowing you to hitch up boats, campers, and heavy work trailers easily. Before you value your trade online, see the 2026 RAM 1500 towing capacity broken down by engine powertrain:

  • 3.6L Pentastar® V6 Engine with eTorque: Capable of towing up to 8,130 pounds
  • 5.7L HEMI® V8 Engine: Capable of towing up to 11,320 pounds
  • 3.0L Hurricane I6 Engine: Capable of towing up to 11,610 pounds
  • High-Output 3.0L Hurricane I6 Engine: Capable of towing up to 10,000 pounds

Want to ditch the trailer hitch altogether and load up the truck bed instead? When configured with the standard 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine in a Quad Cab setup, the RAM 1500 is up to the task with a maximum payload capacity of up to 2,360 pounds. Plus, with the available Trailer-Tow Group, you’ll gain helpful driving features like a Trailer Brake Controller, Trailer Reverse Steering Control, and an integrated Trailer Tire Pressure Monitor to make every hauling job seamlessly safe.

Feel the Power of the RAM 1500 Powertrains at DeYarman CDJR Ames

The best way to experience the power of the returning RAM 1500 V8 or the high-tech Hurricane inline-six is from the driver’s seat. Contact DeYarman CDJR Ames online or by phone at (515) 686-5517 to schedule a test drive at our Ames dealership today. Our expert truck team is standing by to help you look over our latest new vehicle specials and competitive regional offers & incentives so you can drive home with a tailored financing solution. In the meantime, you can easily apply for financing from the comfort of your home or continue learning about your favorite configurations with the in-depth guides at our model research center. Stop by our showroom in Ames, IA, to find your ultimate 2026 RAM 1500 today!

 

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