The Ram 1500 may not be the top selling pickup in the country, but that doesn't mean it's not a leader. Back in 1994 (when it was known as the Dodge Ram), it changed the whole pickup truck industry by appearing with its big-rig looks and bold styling. Soon after, others (coincidentally the number 1 and number 2 pickup truck sales leaders) followed. Then in the mid-2000's Ram was offered in a luxurious trim, and guess who were there following? Time and time again, the Ram has proved that you don't have to be the top seller to be a leader.
Out since 2019, the current 5th generation continues with its bold, in-your-face styling. This is not the truck you want to see coming up fast in your rear-view mirror. Despite its larger-than-life looks, today's Ram is both lighter and stronger than ever before. Last year, we saw Ram ditch the popular 5.7-liter Hemi engine in favor of the new 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. Now, for 2026, we get the best of both worlds as, back by popular demand, the Hemi returns.
The inside of the Ram continues to be the truck’s main highlight. Soft leather, metal accents and high-quality plastics make the Ram's cabin a hard place to leave once you reach your destination. Comfort and room is the name of the game in the Ram, with top-notch seats offering excellent support, and tons of front and rear headroom and legroom. There's a wide range of steering wheel and seat adjustment, so finding a good driving position is easy. The rear seat is the same, with tons of room to maneuver.
The Ram 1500 is available in no fewer than nine trim levels ranging from work to high-end luxury. The base Tradesman is your typical work truck that come with the basics (A/C, power accessories, cruise control) and not much else. While at the other end, the Tungsten takes the Ram to full luxury with a 23-speaker sound system, 22-inch wheels, cargo bed cover, a 14.5-inch touch screen and even a touchscreen for the passenger. The tester arrived as the luxurious Longhorn. While not as fine as the Tungsten, it still is impressive with its super soft leather and massaging seats. It has an MSRP of $86,090.
Under the hood, a trio of engines is available, and they are all good. The base V-6 is assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system and makes 305 horsepower. After a brief hiatus, the legendary 5.7-liter Hemi returns, making 395 horsepower, also with the help of a mild hybrid system. The most powerful Ram engine still comes by way of six cylinders in the Hurricane - a twin-turbo inline-six available in two power-output levels - the base 420 horsepower version or the HO (High Output) 540 horsepower version. The tester is equipped with the latter.
While some diehard V8 fans may dismiss the boosted six-cylinder, it shouldn't be knocked until it’s tried. The new engine gives the Ram a big jump in power and performance. Tests show that the Ram 1500 with the standard Hurricane engine can reach 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds, while the high-output version needs just 4.7 seconds to achieve that same feat. One area where the Hurricane equipped Ram does fall short is in towing. With the Hemi, the Ram can tow up to 12,750 pounds. A Ram with the Hurricane can tow a maximum of 11,570 pounds.
The ride quality of the Ram continues to be one of the best around thanks to its coiled spring rear suspension. You can still tell you're driving a big truck as there is some body roll, but road imperfections are easily swallowed up and the occupants remain comfortable, even when not equipped with the fancy air-suspension that is offered on the higher up models.
When you step back and look at the Ram, it's not hard to see that it has a lot to offer. With plenty of trim levels to choose from, it can be set up strictly for work or as a luxury vehicle, or even both. And with 3 excellent gas engines available, one can really make the Ram their own. Throw in the excellent cabin and smooth driving manners, and the Ram really makes the case for being the half-ton pickup of choice - and a leader in its own right.