For truck lovers, this news is going to be a very big announcement. Ram is bringing back the HEMI V8 in the 2026 Ram 1500 TRX, with a bonkers 797 horsepower. The HEMI was discontinued late in 2025, as Ram replaced it with their Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six engine. Ram's move to offer the HEMI V8 again is a demonstration of their belief in performance and honoring what their customers want.
The Return of the HEMI IS because of request from enthusiasts
As a performance engine over decades, the Ram 1500's 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine's performance was reliable and identifiable. And people loved it! When the HEMI got phased out for the Hurricane engine, there was a strong outcry from fans that truly enjoyed and preferred a V8 pickup. Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis acknowledged that, while the Hurricane is more efficient, we understand the HEMI has a great draw too! The HEMI's debut in the 2026 TRX should make these fans very happy.
Power and Performance: What to Expect in the 2026 TRX
The 2026 Ram 1500 TRX will be supercharged with the 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine to produce up to 797 horsepower, making it the most powerful production pickup truck ever. This is the engine we all experienced in the Dodge Challenger Hellcat Redeye with great purpose, to optimize this performance and make sure customers recognized how they can maintain their space in the truck space.
Design & Features: Marrying Tradition to Modernity
The 2026 TRX will honor the lineage of the HEMI, by again bringing it back, but it will also combine modern design and technology features. The TRX will feature updates on the exterior styling, modern infotainment technology, and safety elements. The goal of the TRX is to deliver an equal and balanced mix of muscle that is classic, but is still relevant and convenient to modern time.
Market Impact: Brand New Standards in the Pickup Truck Space
The 2026 TRX will once again bring back the HEMI V8, and with it, eyes will be on Ram to set new standards to performance in the pickup segment. Competitors like Ford will have to stand firm in their footing with their F-150 Raptor compared to the incredible horsepower and torque of the TRX. This return also illustrates Ram's commitment to legacy performance while the industry attempts to shift towards electrification.
Specification Table: 2026 Ram 1500 TRX
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine | 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8 |
| Horsepower | Up to 797 hp |
| Torque | TBD |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| 0-60 mph | Estimated under 4 seconds |
| Towing Capacity | TBD |
| Payload Capacity | TBD |
| Fuel Economy | TBD |
| Release Date | Expected in 2026 |
| Starting Price | TBD |
Conclusion
The 2026 Ram 1500 TRX is more than a truck. Ram truck is giving their fans, who love driving the vehicles with a HEMI V8, exactly what they’ve loved for so many years: purely raw power, with refinement wrapped around it. Other than Raptor, almost all manufacturers have downsized engines, and are going all-electric—Ram is not afraid to be different, and ultimately this is what we are here for, and what HEMI is all about. It is a comeback, but not just for purposes of nostalgia. This adds a great character that is aggressive, confident, and ultimately fun.
For truck lovers, horsepower is not just about numbers. It’s the sound, and sensation provided within the esteemed heritage of the HEMI name. It’s the underdog story of nearly 800 horsies, bonded with next-gen tech, coupled with robust delivery, which the TRX becomes less of a muscle truck but more of an emerging legend.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): motortrend
