2025 vs. 2026 Ram 1500: What’s Changed and What Still Shines?

The leap from 2025 to 2026 Ram 1500 models brings powertrain overhauls, new tech, and other upgrades. For Hudson Valley drivers, these changes impact everything from daily commutes to weekend hauling jobs. Our team at Meadowland of Carmel Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR) looks at the 2026 Ram 1500’s updates to help you decide which model fits your life best.

What’s New for the 2026 Ram 1500?

The 2026 Ram 1500 changes and updates include a new powertrain. If you missed the HEMI’s V-8 rumble in the 2025 Ram 1500, you’ll be pleased to know that the engine’s back in the 2026 model. Trims with this engine feature a “Symbol of Protest” fender badge.

Ram has upgraded its powertrain warranty to 10 years/100,000 miles (up from five years/ 60,000 miles). Exterior updates include a bolder grille, redesigned LED lights, and new Forged Blue Metallic and Hydro Blue Pearlcoat paint options. New Express packages target budget buyers, though pricing jumps $1,300 with the 2026 base Tradesman starting at $41,575.

Powertrain Showdown

The base 3.6-liter V-6 engine is standard in both model years and gets 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with eTorque is only available in the 2026 model and produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Ram’s Hurricane twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six replaced the V-8 HEMI in the 2025 model and is still available in the 2026 Ram 1500. This engine comes in two versions: standard output with 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque and high-output delivering 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque. 

These Hurricane engines deliver serious performance. The standard version goes from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds (Big Horn Crew Cab four-wheel drive), while a 2025 Ram Limited Crew Cab with the high-output Hurricane sped from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds.

Fuel economy varies by engine. The standard Hurricane achieves 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway/21 mpg combined, while the high-output manages 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway/17 mpg combined. For maximum savings, the 3.6-liter V-6 wins at 20 mpg city/25 mpg highway/22 mpg combined. The 5.7-liter V-8 falls somewhere in the middle with 16 mpg city/20 mpg highway/18 mpg combined.

Towing and Hauling: Capability Comparison

For Hudson Valley contractors and weekend warriors alike, the 2026 lineup offers serious power. While the 2025 Ram 1500 maxes out at 11,550 pounds towing capacity, the 2026 models with the high-output Hurricane can pull up to 11,610 pounds. Maximum payload decreases slightly to 2,360 pounds in 2026 trucks compared to 2,370 pounds in 2025 versions.

Both 1500s give you various configuration options: extended Quad Cab (6-foot-4-inch bed only) or Crew Cab (your choice of bed length). Backing up trailers around Carmel just got easier thanks to Trailer Reverse Steering Control with its console dial for steering help, dashboard-adjustable trailer brake control, and multiple camera views to see all around your load.

Technology and Infotainment Upgrades

Bigger screens dominate the 2026 tech story. The standard display jumps from 8.4 inches to a much larger 12-inch touch screen. There’s also an optional 14.5-inch display and even a 10.3-inch screen for your passenger. The updated Uconnect system adds practical stuff such as sending addresses to your truck before you leave home, walking directions after you park, and live traffic updates with charging station info.

Interior Comfort and Features

These trucks still have the nicest cabins and most comfortable ride in the full-size pickup world. Your family will notice the space differences between models, though. The Crew Cab gives you a whopping 45.2 inches of rear legroom vs. just 35.6 inches in the Quad Cab. That’s nearly 10 extra inches for stretching out on those Hudson Valley road trips. Total passenger volume is 132 cubic feet in the Crew Cab compared to 117 cubic feet in the Quad Cab.

Hauling options vary by configuration. Crew Cab trucks offer either a 5-foot-7-inch box (53.9 cubic feet) or a 6-foot-4-inch box (61.5 cubic feet). Both cab styles seat six people with a front bench or five with bucket seats. The top-of-the-range Tungsten gets you 24-way power seats with massage, real leather everywhere (dash, doors, seats), a suede headliner, genuine wood, and metal accents.

Exterior Design and Functionality: Styling Evolution

The 2026 Ram sports subtle but effective styling tweaks that freshen its look without going overboard. New LED headlights and taillights add style while improving visibility for those foggy Carmel mornings. The grille’s more aggressive now, and you’ll find updated wheel styles and colors throughout the lineup. Ram has also tweaked the aerodynamics to help with performance and fuel economy on your daily commute.

Size-wise, nothing major changes. Both model years share the same 144.5-inch wheelbase and 232.9-inch length. If you’re looking for a truck that stands out, try the new Forged Blue Metallic or Hydro Blue Pearlcoat paint options. There’s also the new Express trim with its blacked-out headlamp bevels. While working around town, you’ll appreciate the RamBox side storage compartments, power tailgate, and 115-volt outlet that’s perfect for running tools at job sites across the region.

Choose Your Perfect Ram 1500 at Meadowland of Carmel CDJR

So, which model year should you choose? The 2026 Ram 1500 offers the HEMI V-8 engine option, more towing power, bigger touch screens, and a longer warranty. The 2025 model is cheaper and might suit you if you want better deals on outgoing stock or don’t need the newest features. Visit us at Meadowland of Carmel CDJR to compare both model years in person and discuss financing options. Our friendly team will help you find your perfect Ram truck.

Tags: 2026 Ram, RAM 1500
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