Is the Ram 1500 V6 or V8?
The Ram 1500 currently offers both V6 and V8 gasoline engines, with a 3.6-liter V6 and a 5.7-liter V8 as the main options, plus a high-performance 6.2-liter V8 in the Ram 1500 TRX; a diesel EcoDiesel option exists only in older models and is not available on current trims.
Current gasoline engine options
The Ram 1500 lineup centers on two main gasoline engines, each paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and tailored for different priorities, from efficiency to towing and performance.
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with eTorque mild-hybrid system — around 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque; designed for efficiency and a smooth daily drive.
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with eTorque mild-hybrid system — about 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque; offers stronger towing and payload capacity with robust low-end torque.
- 6.2-liter Supercharged Hemi V8 (Ram 1500 TRX) — roughly 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque; a high-performance variant used for off-road and straight-line speed.
Note: Actual output can vary by model year and trim. Specs are representative of typical configurations and may change with updates. Always verify current specs with a dealer or official Ram documentation.
Past and present diesel option
In earlier years, a diesel option was offered to maximize fuel economy and torque, but it is not part of the current Ram 1500 lineup.
- 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 — about 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque (diesel); offered on older Ram 1500 models but not available on current trims.
With the EcoDiesel no longer offered, most buyers selecting a Ram 1500 today choose between the gasoline V6 or V8 engines, or opt for the Ram 1500 TRX if they want extreme power in a pickup.
Summary
In essence, the Ram 1500 covers both V6 and V8 gasoline configurations, giving buyers a choice between efficiency and performance. The V6 (3.6L) suits everyday driving, the V8 (5.7L) handles heavier towing and faster acceleration, and the TRX adds a top-tier 6.2L V8 for thrilling performance. The diesel EcoDiesel option is no longer offered on current models, marking a shift back to gasoline power for the lineup.
Is the 5.7 Hemi a V8 or V6?
V8
5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque
Advantages of eTorque included improved fuel economy, more towing capacity, and better hauling ability.
Is there a Ram 1500 V6?
Available on select 2023 Ram 1500 trims, the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine offers impressive torque with remarkable efficiency.
Is a Ram 1500 a V6 or V8?
The Right Engine For The Job
The Ram 1500 engine options now span three distinct power trains, including the familiar 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine with eTorque, the 3.0L Hurricane Twin Turbo, and the High-Output 3.0L Hurricane Twin Turbo.
Is the Ram 1500 a V8?
Yes, the Ram 1500 is available with a V8 engine for the 2026 model year, as the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 has returned to the lineup after being temporarily discontinued. However, the 2025 model year exclusively features the new Hurricane inline-six engine. The returning V8 is paired with an eTorque mild-hybrid system and is offered as an option on most 2026 Ram 1500 trims.
- 2026 Ram 1500: The 5.7L HEMI V8 is back as an engine option, producing 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. It comes with an eTorque mild-hybrid system and a Mopar Catback exhaust system on all V8-equipped models. It is available on most trims for a price premium, except for the RHO and Tungsten models.
- 2025 Ram 1500: The V8 engine was discontinued for the 2025 model year, with the 3.0L Hurricane inline-six being the new engine option.
- 2026 vs. 2025: The 2026 model year represents Ram's decision to reintroduce the V8 engine in response to customer demand and declining sales for the 2025 models. This means that if you are looking for a new Ram 1500 with a V8, you will need to choose a 2026 model.
