Is the 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine Returning to RAM?

In 2024, RAM made a controversial announcement that shocked many owners and fans — they were discontinuing the popular 5.7L HEMI V8 engine ahead of the 2025 model year. At the time, RAM announced that they were discontinuing the engine, as well as the RAM 1500 Classic it was available on, because they were introducing the new Tradesman trim on the RAM 1500. The Tradesman became the truck model’s entry-level trim.

While the Tradesman had its benefits, fans of the RAM 1500 missed the popular engine option. But rumors have begun to swirl ahead of the launch of the 2026 line of RAM trucks. Is the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine returning to RAM? Keep reading to learn what you should know if you’re considering purchasing a RAM 1500 in the coming year!

The Return of the HEMI? Why This Topic Matters to RAM Fans

The 5.7L HEMI V8 is an iconic engine among RAM truck owners, as well as the wider truck enthusiast community. It was known for its powerful performance, horsepower that averages around 395, and impressive towing capacity.

The engine was tough, powerful, and reliable, but it came equipped on entry-level trucks. This made it a great purchase for those looking for power and performance but not wanting to break the bank. The HEMI wasn’t just an engine — it was a movement, and had a culture that surrounded it and made it one of the most popular engines in the truck market.

What Engine Is in the 2025 RAM 1500 Now?

After RAM announced the end of the 5.7L HEMI V8 and the RAM 1500 Classic, it also announced the launch of the 2025 RAM 1500 Tradesman. This truck shared many similarities with the previous RAM 1500 Classic models. It still blended performance with comfort and style, and was available in a range of trim packages. The new base engine is the V-6. Upgraded engine options are also available.

One reason that RAM made the switch is that the new base engine option offered lower emissions. It still prioritized power, torque, and towing, but came in a more modern package.

The New Engines Still Perform — Here’s Why That Matters

The 5.7L HEMI V8 was replaced with a V-6 engine that couldn’t quite live up to the hype and popularity of the HEMI. It is capable of 3.5 horsepower, with less towing capacity than the HEMI. An upgraded engine is also available. This is the twin-turbo inline-six, also called the Hurricane, and is capable of either 420 or 540 horsepower, depending on the torque.

While fans of the HEMI might not have loved the switch, the engine and truck are still a powerful, capable option for those looking to blend affordability and performance. Even without the HEMI badge, RAM power lives on in this impressive model.

When Is the 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine Returning to RAM?

Rumors have swirled about the return of the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine to RAM for months. But RAM has finally confirmed those rumors, and has opened orders for the return of the HEMI in the 2026 RAM 1500. You can contact our sales team at 478-387-3224 to inquire about the 2026 RAM 1500.

The return of this iconic engine is no doubt spurred by customer demand for this powerful and affordable engine. The fan-driven return of the engine will likely arrive at dealerships in the winter of 2025. Orders began in Europe in July and are coming to the U.S. soon.

Why the Return of the HEMI Could Signal Big Things for RAM

The return of the HEMI is likely showing that RAM listens to its customers and wants to deliver vehicles that they love. It’s unclear at this time whether the return of the engine will be a limited run or not, though remarks from RAM suggest that it’s here to stay. Keep your eyes on upcoming RAM announcements to learn more.

Whether You’re Team HEMI or Hurricane — RAM Delivers Power

Whether you’ve missed the HEMI or enjoyed the new Hurricane, one thing that you can no doubt agree with is that RAM delivers power and performance in every engine they offer. RAM is committed to strength, innovation, and capability, and produces trucks known for their towing, off-roading, and daily driving capabilities.

For more information, call our team of experts at 478-387-3224 or fill out the form below for inquiries.