**Ram Reintroduces the Hemi V8 for 2026 Amidst Public Demand**

In a notable reversal, Ram has announced the return of the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine to its half-ton truck lineup for 2026, after previously discontinuing it in favor of the twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline-six. Despite the newer engine's superior performance metrics, the decision to bring back the Hemi underscores the power of consumer preference.

The revived Hemi will include the mild-hybrid eTorque system as standard, delivering an output of 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. These figures fall short when compared to the inline-six Hurricane's standard output of 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque, as well as the high-output model's impressive 510 horsepower and 540 lb-ft of torque. However, Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis remains unfazed, asserting, "So what? It's what the people want."

Acknowledging the misstep, Kuniskis stated, "Ram screwed up when we dropped the Hemi. We own it and we fixed it." The restoration of the Hemi was not an overnight process; suppliers were initially quoted an 18-month timeframe to reintroduce the engine. Now, Ram plans to start delivering V8-powered 1500s this summer, with orders already open.

Customers can choose the Hemi V8 as an option on various Ram 1500 trims, including Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, Rebel, Limited, and Longhorn. The option costs $2,895 on Tradesman through Big Horn models, $1,200 on Laramie and Rebel, and is provided at no additional cost for Limited and Longhorn trims. The latter two come standard with the high-output Hurricane.

Additionally, every Hemi-powered Ram 1500 will feature a new exterior badge dubbed the "Symbol of Protest," reflecting the strong sentiment behind the engine's return. In closing his announcement, Kuniskis proclaimed, "Data be damned—we raise our flag and let the Hemi ring free again!"

Ram’s move to bring back the Hemi V8 highlights a significant shift in responding to its loyal customer base, prioritizing their preferences over purely analytical performance metrics.