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Iconic Hemi V8 returns to US model Rams after incessant public outcry
The Ram 1500 has always epitomised the classic American truck. Oversize, plush, loads of torque and a thumping V8 … until recently.
In late 2024, Ram announced it would ditch its iconic Hemi V8 in favour of a more powerful and efficient turbo-petrol inline six known as the Hurricane.
Fitting of the Hurricane would take place for 2025 model 1500s and beyond, or so we thought. After heavy backlash from fans and weakened sales figures, Ram has decided to back down on its pledge, reviving the Hemi eTorque powertrain for the 2026 year model in North America.
What does this mean for Aussies? We love V8s, too, and reached out to Ram Trucks Australia for comment.
“We know there are customers who love the sound of a V8…[but] as it stands today, there is no guarantee the Hemi V8 will return to Australian showrooms,” a spokesperson revealed to Chasing Cars.
“We believe the new Hurricane engine series will over time become iconic in its own right.”
It seems Ram fans Down Under will need to be patient if waiting for an Australia 1500 V8 revival. Things in the US are more cut and dry, with Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis admitting to Jalopnik it was a mistake to drop the Hemi from its trucks, and pledged to re-fit the 5.7-litre V8 to the 1500 as soon as possible.
Now, just six months after the Hemi was dropped, Kuniskis has confirmed it is coming back, along with a “Symbol of Protest” badge to tell fans they were right.
The badge, which is unique to future-production V8 1500s, features a Ram’s head on a V8 engine — Ram knows its market.
In the US, the 2026 Ram 1500 will be offered with a selection of three engines: a 3.6-litre V6, Hurricane inline six, and Hemi V8.
The Hemi will again use the eTorque 48v mild hybrid system, which does away with a conventional 12 Volt car battery and alternator in favour of a more efficient, stop-start and regen capable mild hybrid system.
Read more: Hurricane-powered Ram 1500 2025 review
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