The Ram 1500 has long been a favorite among pickup truck enthusiasts, celebrated for its rugged capability, luxurious interiors, and, perhaps most notably, the iconic Hemi V8 engine. In a surprising turn of events, Ram has announced the return of the V8 powertrain to the Ram 1500 lineup in the United States for the 2026 model year, reversing its earlier decision to phase out the beloved engine in favor of a twin-turbo inline-six. This move has sparked excitement among American buyers, but for Australian fans, the future of the V8 in their market remains uncertain. This article explores the significance of the V8’s revival, the reasons behind Ram’s decision, the performance differences between the V8 and its six-cylinder successor, and the implications for Australian buyers eagerly awaiting confirmation of its local availability.
The Hemi V8: A Legacy of Power
The Hemi V8 has been a cornerstone of the Ram 1500’s identity since its introduction. Known for its distinctive rumble and robust performance, the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, producing 291 kW (395 hp) and 556 Nm of torque, has powered countless Ram 1500s across various trims, from the workhorse Big Horn to the luxurious Limited. The engine’s optional eTorque mild-hybrid system adds up to 176 Nm of supplemental torque, enhancing low-end grunt and fuel efficiency by enabling smooth stop-start functionality and brake-energy recuperation. For many, the Hemi V8 is more than just an engine—it’s a symbol of American muscle, delivering a visceral driving experience that turbocharged six-cylinders struggle to replicate.
However, in 2024, Ram made the controversial decision to replace the Hemi V8 with a new 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six, dubbed the “Hurricane,” across the 2025 Ram 1500 lineup. The Hurricane engine, available in Standard Output (313 kW, 636 Nm) and High Output (403 kW, 736 Nm) variants, promised superior power, torque, and efficiency compared to the outgoing V8. While the Hurricane delivered on its performance metrics, it faced backlash from loyal customers who cherished the V8’s sound and character. Ram’s parent company, Stellantis, acknowledged this misstep, with reports quoting executives admitting they “screwed up” by axing the V8 prematurely.
Why the V8 Is Coming Back
The decision to reinstate the Hemi V8 in the US market for the 2026 Ram 1500 stems from a combination of customer demand, market dynamics, and strategic shifts within Stellantis. Posts on X and automotive news outlets like Jalopnik and The Autopian have highlighted the outcry from Ram’s customer base, who expressed disappointment over the loss of the V8’s distinctive sound and heritage. This sentiment was particularly strong among performance enthusiasts, especially those eyeing the high-powered Ram 1500 TRX, which previously featured a 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 with 523 kW and 881 Nm.
The return of the V8 also aligns with a leadership change at Stellantis. In December 2024, former Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis was brought out of retirement to lead Ram Trucks, replacing Carlos Tavares, who was reportedly behind the initial decision to phase out the V8. Kuniskis, a known advocate for performance vehicles, likely played a pivotal role in greenlighting the V8’s revival. Additionally, proposed US tariffs on vehicles manufactured outside the country may have influenced Stellantis to shift production of the V8-powered Ram 1500 to the US, potentially reducing costs and ensuring compliance with new regulations.
In the US, the reborn V8 Ram 1500s will feature a “Symbol of Protest” badge on the front wheel arches, depicting a ram’s head on a V8, signaling Ram’s commitment to honoring its loyal fanbase. The 5.7-liter V8 will retain its 291 kW and 556 Nm output, with the eTorque mild-hybrid system as a carry-over option. A performance-tuned exhaust system is standard, enhancing the engine’s signature growl. The first V8-powered 2026 models are expected in US showrooms between June and August 2025.
Australia’s V8 History and Current Landscape
In Australia, the Ram 1500 has carved out a significant niche in the full-size pickup market, outselling competitors like the Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-150 in the 1500-sized segment. Since 2018, Ram Trucks Australia, in partnership with Walkinshaw Automotive Group, has converted over 28,495 Hemi V8-powered Ram 1500s from left-hand to right-hand drive at its Clayton, Melbourne facility. The final V8-powered Ram 1500, a Limited model in Granite Crystal, rolled off the production line on December 6, 2024, marking the end of an era.
The Australian market has embraced the Ram 1500 for its towing capacity (up to 4,500 kg braked), payload (up to 794 kg), and luxurious interiors. The Hemi V8’s appeal lies in its balance of power and refinement, with owners praising its “roar” and “beastly” performance. However, the shift to the Hurricane inline-six for the 2025 model year has left some Australian buyers nostalgic for the V8. Ram Trucks Australia has acknowledged this sentiment, noting that “customers love the sound of a V8,” but emphasized the Hurricane’s superior performance, with the Standard Output version offering 7.6% more power and 14.2% more torque than the Hemi, and the High Output version delivering 38.5% more power and 27.2% more torque.
Despite the V8’s runout, limited stock remains available in Australia, with discounts of $8,000 to $16,000 on Big Horn, Laramie, and Limited variants. The 2024 Ram 1500 TRX Final Edition, powered by the supercharged 6.2-liter V8, also saw strong demand, with only 130 units allocated to Australia out of a global run of 4,000.
The Hurricane Inline-Six: A Worthy Successor?
The 2025 Ram 1500, set to arrive in Australian showrooms by mid-2025, introduces the Hurricane twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six in two tunes:
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Standard Output (S.O.): 313 kW and 636 Nm, available in Big Horn and Laramie trims.
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High Output (H.O.): 403 kW and 736 Nm, exclusive to the Limited trim.
These figures surpass the Hemi V8’s output, and Ram claims improved fuel efficiency (10.7–11.8 L/100 km vs. the V8’s 12.2 L/100 km) and reduced emissions. The Hurricane is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offers five driving modes (Auto, Sport, Tow, Snow, Off-Road), maintaining the Ram 1500’s 4,500 kg towing capacity in Laramie Sport form, though the Limited trim drops to 4,200 kg.
The Hurricane-powered Ram 1500 also brings updated styling, including slimmer headlights, a new grille, and a power-operated tailgate, alongside a tech-heavy interior with 12- and 14.5-inch infotainment screens running Uconnect 5 software. While these upgrades enhance the truck’s appeal, some Australian reviewers and owners have noted that the inline-six lacks the “tough, throaty” sound of the V8, a sentiment echoed in US reviews of the Ram 1500 RHO, the Hurricane-powered successor to the TRX.
Australia’s Uncertain V8 Future
Despite the V8’s confirmed return in the US, Ram Trucks Australia has stated there is “no guarantee” the Hemi V8 will return to local showrooms. The company is evaluating options from the US catalog but has emphasized the Hurricane engine as “an integral part of Ram’s future.” Several factors complicate the V8’s potential return to Australia:
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Right-Hand Drive Conversion Costs: The Walkinshaw facility’s 14-hour re-manufacturing process for right-hand drive conversions adds significant cost. With the V8’s production potentially shifting to the US from Mexico, import tariffs and logistics could further impact pricing.
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Market Trends: Australia’s full-size pickup market is shifting toward more efficient powertrains. The Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra are offered locally with twin-turbo V6s, leaving the Chevrolet Silverado as the only V8-powered full-size pickup. Ram’s focus on the Hurricane aligns with this trend, as evidenced by its improved fuel economy and emissions.
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Demand and Stock: The strong demand for the final V8 models in Australia suggests a market for the engine, but limited stock and the high cost of importing additional units may deter Ram from reintroducing it.
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TRX Revival: Reports suggest the Ram 1500 TRX could return in 2026 with the supercharged 6.2-liter V8, but its Australian availability remains unconfirmed. The RHO, powered by the High Output Hurricane, is under evaluation but not yet approved for Australia, with a potential launch in early 2026 if greenlit.
Implications for Australian Buyers
For Australian buyers, the V8’s revival in the US offers hope but no certainty. Those seeking the Hemi’s iconic sound and performance can still find limited 2024 stock, particularly Big Horn models, which Ram has confirmed carry the V8 while supplies last. Prices start at $114,950 drive-away for the Big Horn, a discount from its usual $123,000–$128,000 range. However, once these units are sold, the Hurricane inline-six will dominate the 2025 lineup, starting at $141,950 for the Laramie Sport and $159,950 for the Limited.
The Hurricane’s superior power and efficiency make it a compelling option, particularly for buyers prioritizing performance and modernity. However, for purists who value the V8’s heritage, the wait for confirmation of its return could be frustrating. Ram Trucks Australia’s cautious stance suggests that any decision to reintroduce the V8 will depend on demand, cost feasibility, and alignment with local market trends.
Looking Forward
The return of the Hemi V8 to the Ram 1500 in the US is a triumph for enthusiasts who rallied against its initial discontinuation. The 5.7-liter V8’s reinstatement for 2026, alongside the potential revival of the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the TRX, underscores Ram’s commitment to its heritage while adapting to modern demands. In Australia, however, the V8’s future remains uncertain, with Ram focusing on the Hurricane inline-six as a powerful and efficient alternative. For now, Australian buyers can secure the last V8-powered Ram 1500s or embrace the 2025 model’s advanced technology and performance. As Ram evaluates its options, the Australian market watches eagerly, hoping the iconic Hemi V8 will once again roar Down Under.
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