Is the Ram 1500 V6 or V-8?
The Ram 1500 offers multiple engine options, including V6 and V8 gasoline powertrains, along with a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 for buyers who want a diesel option. In short, you can choose between V6 and V8 configurations depending on the trim and year.
Current engine options for the Ram 1500
Here are the primary powertrain choices commonly available on recent Ram 1500 models.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque mild-hybrid system — typically provides around 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 — a turbocharged diesel option delivering roughly 260 horsepower and about 480 lb-ft of torque.
- 5.7L Hemi V8 with or without eTorque — a traditional V8 setup delivering roughly 395 horsepower and about 410 lb-ft of torque.
These options give buyers a spectrum from efficient daily driving to strong towing and payload performance. Availability can vary by model year and trim, so a dealer can confirm the exact configurations for a given build.
Which Ram 1500 trims offer which engines?
Engine availability is tied to trim level, optional packages, and model year. Here’s a broad guide to what you might expect across recent trims.
- 3.6L V6 eTorque — commonly standard or widely available on base and mid-trim models, often paired with a robust eight-speed automatic.
- 5.7L Hemi V8 — widely offered across many trims as a factory option, and sometimes as a higher-end or performance-oriented choice.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 — available on select trims, usually in mid-to-upper ranges, and often appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and torque for highway work.
Because Ram occasionally revises available powertrains by year and region, checking the current build sheet or with a dealer is the best way to know which engine ships with a specific trim.
Performance and efficiency considerations
Choosing between V6 and V8 (and diesel) comes down to how you plan to use the truck—daily driving vs. heavy-duty work, towing needs, and fuel economy priorities.
- V6 with eTorque — offers a balance of power and efficiency suitable for commuting and lighter towing.
- V8 Hemi — delivers the strongest peak power and towing capability among the gasoline options, at the cost of lower fuel economy in some conditions.
- EcoDiesel V6 — emphasizes torque for highway pulling and better highway fuel economy, appealing to buyers prioritizing long-haul efficiency.
Each option sustains Ram’s target of combining modern technology with practical capability, so the best choice depends on your workload, travel patterns, and maintenance preferences.
Summary
The Ram 1500 offers a versatile engine lineup that includes both V6 and V8 gasoline options, plus a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6. Across model years, trims and packages determine exact availability, but buyers generally can choose from a capable V6, a high-torque diesel V6, or a traditional Hemi V8. For everyday driving, the V6 or EcoDiesel often delivers a favorable mix of performance and efficiency; for maximum towing and power, the Hemi V8 is the strong performer. Always confirm current configurations with a dealer to ensure the engine matches your needs.
