The 2026 Ram 1500 Brings Back Hemi V8 Power
Doug DeMuro · 2026-05-19
💡 Quick Take
1. The 2026 Ram 1500 is bringing back the Hemi V8 engine.
2. AutoZone offers essential vehicle prep services and parts for road trips.
3. FixFinder at AutoZone provides free diagnostic scans for dashboard warning lights.
4. Regularly check and top off all vehicle fluids, including wiper fluid, brake fluid, and coolant.
5. Always check engine oil level and color; replace if due.
6. Essential pre-trip checks include tires, lights, and battery.
7. AutoZone offers free battery testing and checks for corrosion.
8. Inspect brakes for squealing or whining and check belts for wear.
9. Duralast brakes come with a 100% noise-free guarantee and OEM fit.
10. The AutoZone app provides belt diagrams via the Lona tool program.
11. The Hemi V8's return to the 2026 Ram 1500 required significant electrical system upgrades.
12. Cold weather testing for the Hemi Ram had to be conducted in New Zealand due to timing.
13. The Hurricane 6-cylinder engine is actually more powerful and quicker than the Hemi V8.
14. The Hemi V8's return is primarily for its sound and the V8 experience.
15. The GT performance exhaust is now standard on Hemi V8 Rams for 2026.
16. A fender badge visually signifies the Hemi V8's presence.
17. The Hemi V8 in the 2026 Ram 1500 includes a mild hybrid eTorque system.
18. Ram 1500 towing capacity (around 11,500 lbs) is less than some rivals like Ford and GM (exceeding 13,000 lbs).
19. The Ram Box is a secure, lockable exterior cargo compartment on the bed sides.
20. The Ram Box includes internal lighting and a household power outlet on the driver's side.
21. Ram Box offers an emergency trunk release for safety compliance.
22. Extendable side steps make accessing the truck bed easier.
23. Power-retractable running boards automatically extend and retract for convenience and aesthetics.
24. The Ram 1500 has a traditional tailgate, unlike some rivals with split or multi-function tailgates.
25. The "Ram" branding is prominently displayed on the exterior to emphasize the standalone brand identity.
26. The latest Ram 1500 design is considered attractive, muscular, and upscale.
27. Air suspension allows for adjustable ride height for easier entry or off-road capability.
28. The air suspension can be lowered remotely using the key fob for easier loading.
29. The interior of the Ram Limited is luxurious, well-designed, and uses upscale materials like stitched leather and open-pore wood.
30. The center console features retractable cup holders and a coin storage slot.
31. The console area includes dual wireless phone chargers and a variety of plug-in ports.
32. The center console lid has a hidden compartment with mathematical equations and historical Ram model images.
33. The gear selector is a rotary dial, and the truck automatically shifts to park if turned off in drive.
34. The driver's door panel includes extra cup holders and a button for massaging seats with various modes.
35. The large, vertically oriented infotainment screen is intuitive and highly configurable.
36. Physical buttons for climate controls and stereo volume/tuning are retained on the screen's sides.
37. The camera system, despite high quality, only utilizes about a third of the large screen.
38. Accessing heated/cooled seats requires multiple steps through the infotainment screen.
39. The parking sensor button occupies a fixed space on the screen that could be used for more frequently accessed features like heated seats.
40. The infotainment screen lacks integrated games, which are becoming common in other vehicles.
41. The configurable gauge cluster screen is a standout feature, allowing full-screen maps and custom displays.
42. The digital rearview mirror can switch between mirror and camera modes.
43. A dedicated passenger-side screen offers entertainment options for the front passenger.
44. The rear seat is spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for three adults.
45. The rear seat has four accessible cup holders without compromising center seat use.
46. The center rear seat folds down to reveal two additional cup holders and a storage area with a leather armrest.
47. Rear passengers have access to heated/ventilated seats and multiple charging ports (USB-A, USB-C, household outlet).
48. The rear seat bottom can fold up to reveal a carpeted storage panel for secure, hidden storage.
49. The Hurricane 6-cylinder engine is smoother, more powerful, and more fuel-efficient than the Hemi V8.
50. The return of the Hemi V8 is largely driven by consumer demand for its sound and traditional V8 feel.
51. The Ram 1500 offers a smooth, comfortable, and refined driving experience, often exceeding rivals.
52. The interior, technology, and materials in the Ram 1500 are considered superior to many competitors, especially Chevy.
53. Despite its age, the Ram 1500 remains competitive due to its strong design and features.
54. Potential concerns about Stellantis (Ram's parent company) reliability are a significant drawback.
55. Reliability is a critical factor for truck buyers, and Ram's reputation in this area is a concern.
56. The 2026 Ram 1500 is a great truck with excellent materials, tech, and styling, but reliability is a question mark.
57. The Doug score of 50/100 reflects the truck's strengths but is tempered by reliability concerns.
58. The Hemi V8's comeback adds "cool factor" but doesn't significantly alter the overall score due to its age and the superior Hurricane engine.
📊 Detailed Explanation
1. The 2026 Ram 1500 is bringing back the Hemi V8 engine. This is a huge deal because in an era dominated by smaller, more fuel-efficient engines and electrification, Ram is reintroducing a legendary V8 for its full-size pickup. It's a nod to tradition and the enthusiasts who crave that classic V8 rumble and power delivery. This engine was absent for the 2025 model year, replaced by the Hurricane 6-cylinder, so its return is quite the comeback story!
2. AutoZone offers essential vehicle prep services and parts for road trips. With summer road trips on the horizon, AutoZone is presented as the go-to spot for getting your vehicle ready. They emphasize their widespread availability, meaning you can find what you need no matter where your travels take you. It's all about ensuring your vehicle is reliable for those long drives.
3. FixFinder at AutoZone provides free diagnostic scans for dashboard warning lights. This is a super handy service! If that dreaded check engine light or any other warning pops up, you can head to AutoZone for a free scan. They'll read your car's signals (engine, ABS, maintenance) and give you a report detailing what's going on. An AutoZone employee can then help you find the right part or even point you to a local mechanic. It's fast, easy, and best of all, free!
4. Regularly check and top off all vehicle fluids, including wiper fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. This is a foundational maintenance step that's often overlooked. The video stresses that it's crucial to keep all your fluids topped up, not just the obvious ones like oil. Windshield wiper fluid is essential for visibility, brake fluid is critical for stopping power, and coolant prevents overheating. You can even order these online from AutoZone and pick them up the same day.
5. Always check engine oil level and color; replace if due. This is a classic piece of advice for a reason! Checking your oil on the dipstick lets you see both the level and the condition (color) of the oil. Dark, sludgy oil means it's time for a change. Don't delay if your oil is due for replacement; an AutoZone employee can help you get the correct oil and filter for your specific engine.
6. Essential pre-trip checks include tires, lights, and battery. These are the big three for safety and reliability on the road. Properly inflated tires are crucial for handling and fuel economy, all functioning lights are non-negotiable for visibility and safety, and a healthy battery ensures you'll start up every time. Wipers are also mentioned here, which are vital for adverse weather.
7. AutoZone offers free battery testing and checks for corrosion. Batteries can be a weak link, especially on long trips. AutoZone provides a free service to test your battery's health and inspect it for corrosion on the terminals, which can hinder performance. Getting this checked can save you from a breakdown.
8. Inspect brakes for squealing or whining and check belts for wear. These are auditory and visual cues that something might be wrong. Squealing or whining noises during braking are a clear sign your brake pads might need replacing. Serpentine belts, which drive many of your engine's accessories, can crack or fray over time and should be inspected for wear.
9. Duralast brakes come with a 100% noise-free guarantee and OEM fit. This is a specific product highlight from AutoZone. Duralast brakes are presented as a high-quality option that guarantees a quiet braking experience and a perfect fit for your vehicle, just like the original parts.
10. The AutoZone app provides belt diagrams via the Lona tool program. For those doing their own work, AutoZone offers helpful digital resources. The app can provide specific belt diagrams for your vehicle, making it easier to know exactly where and how to replace a serpentine belt.
11. The Hemi V8's return to the 2026 Ram 1500 required significant electrical system upgrades. This is a fascinating technical detail! When Ram decided to bring back the Hemi, it wasn't a simple drop-in. The truck's electrical system had been completely redesigned in the interim, so the Hemi had to be significantly modified and upgraded to integrate with the new electronics. This highlights the complexity of modern vehicle engineering.
12. Cold weather testing for the Hemi Ram had to be conducted in New Zealand due to timing. This is a quirky and memorable detail! Because the Hemi's integration timeline meant winter had already passed in Michigan (where they usually do their cold-weather testing), they had to ship the trucks all the way to New Zealand to ensure they could properly test their performance in frigid conditions. Talk about going the extra mile!
13. The Hurricane 6-cylinder engine is actually more powerful and quicker than the Hemi V8. This is a bit of an ironic twist! The engine that was supposed to replace the Hemi, the Hurricane 6-cylinder, actually puts out more horsepower (420 hp standard, 540 hp high-output) than the Hemi V8 (around 400 hp). It also achieves a much faster 0-60 mph time (4.5 seconds for the Hurricane vs. 6 seconds for the Hemi). So, from a pure performance standpoint, the Hurricane is the winner.
14. The Hemi V8's return is primarily for its sound and the V8 experience. Given that the Hurricane is technically superior in power and efficiency, the reason for the Hemi's comeback becomes clear: it's about the emotional connection and the distinct character of a V8. People missed the sound, the feel, and the heritage of the Hemi, and Ram listened to that demand.
15. The GT performance exhaust is now standard on Hemi V8 Rams for 2026. To further enhance the V8 experience, Ram has made the previously optional GT performance exhaust a standard feature on all Hemi V8 models for 2026. This ensures that every Hemi Ram owner can fully appreciate that signature V8 exhaust note.
16. A fender badge visually signifies the Hemi V8's presence. A small but significant detail! To proudly announce the return of the Hemi, there's a special fender badge featuring a Ram silhouette with a V8 engine graphic. It's a subtle way to let everyone know what's under the hood.
17. The Hemi V8 in the 2026 Ram 1500 includes a mild hybrid eTorque system. Even though it's a classic V8, it's not entirely old-school. The Hemi is paired with Ram's eTorque mild-hybrid system, which provides a little boost and helps with efficiency. This shows that even traditional powertrains are getting some form of electrification these days.
18. Ram 1500 towing capacity (around 11,500 lbs) is less than some rivals like Ford and GM (exceeding 13,000 lbs). This is an important consideration for truck buyers who prioritize towing. While the Ram 1500 is capable, its maximum towing capacity is lower than what Ford and General Motors trucks can achieve with their top-tier engines. This is a point where rivals have an edge.
19. The Ram Box is a secure, lockable exterior cargo compartment on the bed sides. This is a really clever feature! The Ram Box offers secure, lockable storage compartments built into the sides of the truck bed. They're perfect for stashing smaller items you want to keep safe and out of the elements, or items you don't want rolling around in the main bed.
20. The Ram Box includes internal lighting and a household power outlet on the driver's side. Adding to its utility, the Ram Box has an interior light to help you find things in the dark. Plus, the driver's side Ram Box features a standard household-style power outlet, which is incredibly useful for powering tools, charging devices, or even running a small appliance.
21. Ram Box offers an emergency trunk release for safety compliance. This is a safety feature mandated by regulations. It's designed so that if someone were to be accidentally trapped inside, they could release themselves. While it's a practical safety measure, the reviewer humorously notes it's unlikely someone would be kidnapped and put in the Ram Box given its size.
22. Extendable side steps make accessing the truck bed easier. Getting into the truck bed can be a stretch, but these extendable side steps are a great solution. You can flip them out to create a stable platform for climbing in, offering a cleaner look than some competitors' bumper cutouts.
23. Power-retractable running boards automatically extend and retract for convenience and aesthetics. These are a touch of luxury and practicality. When you unlock the truck, the running boards automatically extend to give you a step up into the cabin. Once you're inside and driving, they retract back into the body for a sleeker profile.
24. The Ram 1500 has a traditional tailgate, unlike some rivals with split or multi-function tailgates. While many trucks are getting fancy with split tailgates that can act as load extenders or work surfaces, the Ram sticks to a more conventional, albeit power-operated, tailgate. This might be a drawback for some who value the versatility of multi-function tailgates.
25. The "Ram" branding is prominently displayed on the exterior to emphasize the standalone brand identity. You'll notice the "Ram" name is everywhere, in large lettering, on the grille, tailgate, and sides. This is a deliberate effort by the company to reinforce that "Ram" is its own brand, separate from Dodge, even though many people still refer to it as "Dodge Ram."
26. The latest Ram 1500 design is considered attractive, muscular, and upscale. Even after being on the market for a while, the reviewer still believes the Ram 1500 is one of the best-looking full-size trucks available. It strikes a great balance between a tough, muscular appearance and a refined, upscale look.
27. Air suspension allows for adjustable ride height for easier entry or off-road capability. This is a premium feature that adds a lot of versatility. The air suspension lets you raise the truck for better ground clearance off-road or lower it for easier ingress and egress. It's a nice touch that adds to the truck's overall capability and comfort.
28. The air suspension can be lowered remotely using the key fob for easier loading. This is a really cool party trick! You can lower the truck to its lowest setting by pressing a button on the key fob, even when you're outside the vehicle. This makes it much easier to load heavy or bulky items into the bed without having to climb in or reach as high.
29. The interior of the Ram Limited is luxurious, well-designed, and uses upscale materials like stitched leather and open-pore wood. The interior of the higher trims, like the Limited, is a major selling point. It's a really nice place to be, with a premium feel thanks to high-quality materials like soft, stitched leather and attractive open-pore wood trim. There's very little cheap plastic to be found, making it a comfortable and sophisticated cabin.
30. The center console features retractable cup holders and a coin storage slot. This is a neat bit of interior design. The center console has panels that can slide away to reveal cup holders or a coin tray. If you don't want them visible, you can slide them completely out of sight, offering a clean look when not in use.
31. The console area includes dual wireless phone chargers and a variety of plug-in ports. Convenience is key! The console area provides two wireless charging pads for your phones, along with a comprehensive array of USB-A and USB-C ports, plus other plugs, ensuring you can charge all your devices.
32. The center console lid has a hidden compartment with mathematical equations and historical Ram model images. This is a fun Easter egg! Inside the center console lid, you'll find printed mathematical and trigonometric formulas, which could be handy for some. There are also images of classic Ram trucks, adding a touch of heritage.
33. The gear selector is a rotary dial, and the truck automatically shifts to park if turned off in drive. The gear selector is a modern rotary dial. A clever safety feature is that if you try to turn the engine off while it's in drive, the dial will automatically move itself back to park, ensuring the truck is secured.
34. The driver's door panel includes extra cup holders and a button for massaging seats with various modes. Even more cup holders! The door panel has additional ones, and there's a button to activate the massaging seats. You can choose from several massage modes, including a rather unique "rock climb" option, adding a layer of luxury and relaxation.
35. The large, vertically oriented infotainment screen is intuitive and highly configurable. The massive vertical touchscreen is a centerpiece of the interior. Its orientation mirrors smartphone screens, making it feel familiar and easy to use. You can customize widgets on the home screen and display a wealth of information and controls.
36. Physical buttons for climate controls and stereo volume/tuning are retained on the screen's sides. A big plus for usability! Instead of burying everything in the touchscreen, Ram has kept essential physical buttons and dials for climate control and audio volume/tuning on the sides of the screen. This makes them easy to access without taking your eyes off the road.
37. The camera system, despite high quality, only utilizes about a third of the large screen. This is a criticism of the screen's implementation. While the camera system offers many angles and high resolution, it's a bit disappointing that it doesn't take full advantage of the screen's size, only occupying about one-third of the display.
38. Accessing heated/cooled seats requires multiple steps through the infotainment screen. Another usability gripe: controlling the heated and cooled seats isn't as straightforward as it could be. You have to navigate through a "comfort" tab and then adjust separate controls, which is a multi-step process that interrupts your use of the main screen.
39. The parking sensor button occupies a fixed space on the screen that could be used for more frequently accessed features like heated seats. The reviewer points out that a fixed panel at the bottom of the screen is dedicated to the parking sensor button, which most people use infrequently. This space could have been better utilized for more commonly used features like heated/cooled seats.
40. The infotainment screen lacks integrated games, which are becoming common in other vehicles. In an era where some car screens offer games like air hockey or drawing pads, the Ram's screen, despite its size, doesn't have any integrated entertainment options. This could be a missed opportunity for occupying time while waiting.
41. The configurable gauge cluster screen is a standout feature, allowing full-screen maps and custom displays. The digital gauge cluster is another highlight. It's incredibly customizable, allowing you to display a full-screen map, various driving information, or whatever you prefer, presented exactly how you want it.
42. The digital rearview mirror can switch between mirror and camera modes. This is a practical safety feature. With the flip of a switch, the rearview mirror transforms into a camera display, giving you a clear view of what's behind you, unobstructed by passengers or headrests.
43. A dedicated passenger-side screen offers entertainment options for the front passenger. For added luxury and convenience, the passenger side of the dashboard features a dedicated screen. This allows the front passenger to enjoy their own entertainment, separate from the driver, which is a nice perk at this price point.
44. The rear seat is spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for three adults. As expected in a large truck, the rear seat is cavernous. There's plenty of room for three full-size adults to sit comfortably, making it a practical choice for families or carpooling.
45. The rear seat has four accessible cup holders without compromising center seat use. The rear cabin is well-equipped for passengers, with four cup holders readily available – two in the back of the center console and one in each door. This means everyone has a place for their drink without needing to fold down the armrest.
46. The center rear seat folds down to reveal two additional cup holders and a storage area with a leather armrest. If you don't need to seat a fifth person, the center seat can fold down to reveal a convenient storage tray and two more cup holders, complete with a nice stitched leather armrest, adding a touch of premium comfort.
47. Rear passengers have access to heated/ventilated seats and multiple charging ports (USB-A, USB-C, household outlet). The rear occupants are not forgotten when it comes to comfort and connectivity. They get heated and ventilated seats, along with plenty of charging options: USB-A, USB-C, and a household-style outlet, mirroring the convenience found in the front.
48. The rear seat bottom can fold up to reveal a carpeted storage panel for secure, hidden storage. Another clever storage solution! The bottom of the rear seat can be folded up, revealing a carpeted panel that creates a secure, hidden storage space. This is ideal for keeping valuables out of sight and protected from the elements, a better option than leaving them exposed in the bed.
49. The Hurricane 6-cylinder engine is smoother, more powerful, and more fuel-efficient than the Hemi V8. This is a recurring theme. The reviewer reiterates that the Hurricane 6-cylinder is, by objective measures, a superior engine. It delivers more power, is smoother, and offers better or comparable fuel economy to the Hemi V8.
50. The return of the Hemi V8 is largely driven by consumer demand for its sound and traditional V8 feel. The core reason for the Hemi's comeback is emotional and experiential. Consumers missed the distinct sound and visceral feel of a V8 engine, and Ram responded to that strong market demand.
51. The Ram 1500 offers a smooth, comfortable, and refined driving experience, often exceeding rivals. On the road, the Ram 1500 truly shines. It's praised for its exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, often surpassing its competitors in this regard. It feels refined and well-planted, making long drives a pleasure.
52. The interior, technology, and materials in the Ram 1500 are considered superior to many competitors, especially Chevy. The interior is a major strong suit. The reviewer highlights that the Ram's cabin, with its excellent tech, premium materials, and thoughtful design, sets a high bar, particularly when compared to rivals like Chevrolet, whose interiors are seen as less refined.
53. Despite its age, the Ram 1500 remains competitive due to its strong design and features. Even though the current generation of the Ram 1500 has been around for a while (7 years), it continues to be a formidable contender. Its well-executed design, advanced features, and overall quality allow it to punch above its weight against newer rivals.
54. Potential concerns about Stellantis (Ram's parent company) reliability are a significant drawback. This is the elephant in the room. Despite all the positives, the reviewer expresses significant reservations about the long-term reliability of Ram vehicles, citing a history of issues and online complaints. This is a major deterrent for potential buyers.
55. Reliability is a critical factor for truck buyers, and Ram's reputation in this area is a concern. Truck buyers often prioritize durability and dependability, as these vehicles are typically workhorses. Ram's perceived weakness in reliability is a significant hurdle that might lead buyers to opt for more dependable competitors, even if they're not as luxurious or feature-rich.
56. The 2026 Ram 1500 is a great truck with excellent materials, tech, and styling, but reliability is a question mark. The summary is that it's a fantastic vehicle in many respects – it looks good, has amazing tech, and a luxurious interior. However, the persistent question mark over its reliability casts a shadow over its overall appeal.
57. The Doug score of 50/100 reflects the truck's strengths but is tempered by reliability concerns. The final score of 50 out of 100 indicates a truck that's good but not great overall. It acknowledges the truck's many positive attributes but is significantly pulled down by the critical issue of potential reliability problems.
58. The Hemi V8's comeback adds "cool factor" but doesn't significantly alter the overall score due to its age and the superior Hurricane engine. While the return of the Hemi is a cool development and adds to the truck's appeal for enthusiasts, it doesn't fundamentally change the truck's core strengths or weaknesses. The reviewer implies that the technically superior Hurricane engine is the more sensible choice, and the Hemi's inclusion is more about sentiment and tradition than objective performance advantage.
🎯 Expert Opinion
Alright, let's dive into this 2026 Ram 1500 with the Hemi. From a professional standpoint, the return of the Hemi V8 is a fascinating strategic move by Stellantis. It's a clear play to capture the nostalgia and emotional appeal of a beloved engine, especially in a market segment where brand loyalty and traditional performance cues still hold significant weight. However, the transcript highlights a critical tension: the Hemi is back, but the Hurricane inline-six is objectively the better engine in terms of power, efficiency, and acceleration. This creates a bit of an internal conflict for the brand. My take? The Hemi is a halo product, a nod to enthusiasts and a way to generate buzz, but the future of Ram's powertrain strategy clearly lies with the Hurricane. We're likely seeing the Hemi's swan song here, a final hurrah before electrification and advanced turbocharging fully take over.
The detailed breakdown of AutoZone's services is spot-on for practical vehicle ownership. In today's world, where DIY maintenance is still prevalent but access to information and parts is crucial, AutoZone's integrated approach – free diagnostics (FixFinder), readily available fluids and parts, and helpful staff – is a smart business model. The emphasis on pre-trip checks is paramount. From an industry perspective, proactive maintenance is the single biggest factor in preventing roadside breakdowns and ensuring vehicle longevity. The free battery testing and corrosion checks are particularly valuable, as battery failure is a common cause of unexpected immobilization, especially in extreme weather.
The technical challenges of integrating the Hemi back into a redesigned electrical architecture are a testament to the evolving complexity of automotive engineering. It's not just about bolting in an engine; it's about seamless integration with sophisticated control modules and software. The fact that they had to conduct cold-weather testing in New Zealand speaks volumes about the tight development timelines and the commitment to ensuring the Hemi's functionality in diverse conditions, even if it meant extraordinary measures. This level of engineering effort for an engine that's technically surpassed by its own stablemate is a clear indicator of the market's demand for the V8 *experience* over pure performance metrics.
The Ram Box feature is a brilliant example of innovative utility design in the pickup truck segment. It addresses the common need for secure, accessible storage without sacrificing bed functionality. The inclusion of a power outlet is a game-changer for tradespeople or anyone needing to power tools or devices on the go. This type of integrated solution differentiates the Ram from its competitors and adds significant value beyond just hauling capacity. Similarly, the power-retractable running boards and the remote-lowering air suspension for loading are premium features that enhance usability and convenience, positioning the Ram as a more refined and user-friendly option, especially in higher trims.
The interior of the Ram, particularly in the Limited trim, continues to set a benchmark for luxury and design in the truck segment. The use of high-quality materials, the intuitive large vertical screen, and the thoughtful integration of physical controls are all elements that contribute to a superior user experience. However, the criticisms regarding the infotainment system's implementation – the underutilization of screen real estate for cameras and the cumbersome access to climate controls – are valid and represent areas where even leading designs can be refined. The lack of integrated games, while seemingly minor, is a missed opportunity to enhance user engagement and leverage the large screen's potential for downtime.
Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: reliability. This is the single biggest factor that would give me pause as a professional recommending a Ram truck. Stellantis has a documented history of reliability concerns across its brands, and while improvements are always being made, the perception and reality of long-term durability are critical. For a vehicle that often serves as a primary mode of transportation or a work tool, dependability is non-negotiable. The reviewer's hesitation is well-founded. Buyers are increasingly prioritizing reliability scores, and if a truck, no matter how luxurious or feature-rich, cannot be trusted to consistently get them where they need to go, its appeal diminishes significantly. This is where competitors like Toyota and Chevrolet often hold an advantage, even if their interiors or tech aren't quite as cutting-edge.
The Doug score of 50/100 perfectly encapsulates the Ram 1500's predicament. It's a truck that excels in many areas – design, comfort, technology, and driving dynamics – but is held back by fundamental concerns about its long-term viability. The "cool factor" of the Hemi is a temporary boost, but it doesn't offset the underlying issues. My prediction is that Stellantis will continue to refine the Hurricane engine and push towards electrification, phasing out the Hemi entirely. The future of the Ram truck will likely depend on their ability to significantly improve their reliability record, as that's the one area where they consistently lag behind the best in the industry.
Kanal: Doug DeMuro