Should You Buy a 2026 RAM 1500 V8? Thorough Review By A Mechanic
Review of the 2026 Ram 1500 Featuring the Return of the Hemi V8
Discover the technical details and polarizing design choices of the 2026 Ram 1500, focusing on the return of the old-school 5.7L Hemi engine and its integration with modern mild-hybrid technology.
Short Summary
- The 5.7L Hemi V8 engine returns, celebrated for its simplicity and characteristic sound, despite being mechanically archaic.
- The truck integrates a modern 48V eTorque mild-hybrid system, creating a strange juxtaposition with the pushrod engine design.
- Underbody and engine bay access is excellent due to the relatively compact nature of the pushrod V8, contrasting modern complex engines.
- Several design oversights are noted, particularly concerning exterior door keyless entry logic and complicated service paths for some components.
This review provides a deep dive into the mechanical structure, exterior presentation, and interior functionality of the 2026 Ram 1500, emphasizing the implications of bringing back the proven, yet outdated, Hemi V8 motor rather than relying solely on newer six-cylinder options. Readers gain insight into where the design excels in serviceability and where cost-cutting or design compromises create headaches.
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Top Comments (10)
Trying to choose a new truck today is like trying to pick the least bad apple in a barrel of bad apples.
The transmission drain plug is protected by the exhaust pipe so the jiffy lube kid doesn't touch it.
Don’t mind if the engine is an “old” design as long as it’s easy to work on and last 300k Nice truck!
We've all been waiting for TCCN to review a RAM 1500!
Still own my 2006 5.7. It has 377k miles on it's original engine and transmission. I'm going to push for 500k miles. I'm very optimistic.
these Rams are old school but are awesome to drive and tow
Remove the cylinder deactivation, and this will be a perfect engine.
Thanks for looking at the Ram. Best car review channel.
We want simple reliable engines! No more bs turbo v6 trash!
Wow! This American 1500 V8 RAM truck is just $90,510 and was even assembled in Saltillo, México!
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Top Comments (10)
Trying to choose a new truck today is like trying to pick the least bad apple in a barrel of bad apples.
The transmission drain plug is protected by the exhaust pipe so the jiffy lube kid doesn't touch it.
Don’t mind if the engine is an “old” design as long as it’s easy to work on and last 300k Nice truck!
We've all been waiting for TCCN to review a RAM 1500!
Still own my 2006 5.7. It has 377k miles on it's original engine and transmission. I'm going to push for 500k miles. I'm very optimistic.
these Rams are old school but are awesome to drive and tow
Remove the cylinder deactivation, and this will be a perfect engine.
Thanks for looking at the Ram. Best car review channel.
We want simple reliable engines! No more bs turbo v6 trash!
Wow! This American 1500 V8 RAM truck is just $90,510 and was even assembled in Saltillo, México!