Ram 1500 welcomes back the V8

The facelifted Ram 1500 pickup lost its Hemi V8 a year and a half ago, and the 5.7-liter 1500 Classic version bowed out of production in October 2024. The automaker believed eight cylinders were becoming history – but customers objected and were heard.

In a recent communication, Ram admitted that the decision to discontinue all V8 truck production was made in haste and attracted a lot of criticism. Would-be buyers buried the company with messages saying they would never buy a twin-turbo V6 truck just because that powertrain was more compact and fuel-efficient.

It’s also official now that the large-displacement eight-banger will be making a comeback in the Ram 1500 lineup next year. It will be listed as a $1,200 option for some trims and will be included for free with the top trims, with an option to downgrade to a V6 for efficiency.

The 5.7-liter mill still produces 395 PS (390 hp / 291 kW) and 556 Nm (410 lb-ft) of torque, the company says. The main novelty comes in the form of a hybrid add-on called eTorque. It incorporates a 48V starter-generator and sources its power from a tiny 430W battery mounted under the rear bench seat. The mild-hybrid system can supply up to 176 Nm (130 lb-ft) of instant torque when fast acceleration is required.

The V8 option now also comes bundled with a performance exhaust system and a badge saying “Symbol of Protest” to let the others know you are a staunch supporter of the Hemi.

Just because the V8 is making a comeback doesn’t mean Ram no longer works on replacements, though. The old engine is only coming back for 18 months, after which the company plans to discontinue it again and return on the full electrification course.