Ram 1500 HEMI and 2500 HD Named 2026 NACTOY Finalists
If you are considering a Ram Truck for your farm in 2026, here are some things to know. The Ram 1500 HEMI V-8 eTorque and the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty have secured two of the three finalist positions for the 2026 North American Truck of the Year (NACTOY) earlier this year. The award is determined by a jury of 50 seasoned print and broadcast automotive journalists from the United States and Canada.
Their evaluations highlight vehicles that demonstrate standout performance, refinement, and meaningful choice for consumers qualities that helped propel both Ram trucks to the top.
“We’re proud to see Ram recognized by this opinion-leading group of industry professionals,” said Tim Kuniskis, head of American Brands, SRT Performance, NA Marketing and Retail Strategy.
“NACTOY recognizing both the Ram 1500 HEMI and Heavy Duty shows that the ‘last tenth’ culture that drives the Ram brand is paying off. We’re here to give customers freedom of choice and the trucks they want - something we’re already seeing on showroom floors.”
The 2025 NACTOY awards represent the 32nd year of the program, and this is the first time Ram has secured two of the final three spots. This milestone underscores Ram’s ongoing commitment to producing top-tier trucks that offer capability, value, and versatility in a highly competitive segment.
The 2026 Ram 1500 models equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 eTorque are among the brand’s quickest-selling trucks, thanks to their blend of power and efficiency. This engine joins a lineup that also includes a base V-6 and the Hurricane SO and HO Twin Turbo options, giving half-ton buyers four distinct powertrain choices.
The Ram 1500 equipped with the 5.7L HEMI® V-8 eTorque engine delivers impressive performance for work and play. This powerhouse generates 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, while the eTorque mild-hybrid system adds up to 130 lb-ft of instant torque for quicker acceleration and improved responsiveness—perfect for hauling and towing on the farm.
Paired with a TorqueFlite® 8-speed automatic transmission, the Ram 1500 offers smooth shifting and dependable performance. Towing capacity varies by model year, with newer versions capable of pulling up to 11,470 lbs, and a maximum payload of 1,750 lbs.
Ram 1500 Performance Highlights
eTorque System Advantages
Ram Heavy Duty Performance Highlights
On the heavy-duty side, the 2026 Ram Heavy Duty series introduces more technology, improved towing strength, and heightened capability. The lineup continues to set benchmarks with best-in-class interiors and a smooth ride, complemented by the impressive 1,075 lb.-ft. of torque from the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel inline-six.
Ram’s 2026 lineup spans a wide range of trims and powertrains from the Black Express to the Laramie, Tungsten, and Power Wagon. The year will also see the debut of the Ram 1500 REV, a range-extended electric model offering a new alternative for truck buyers.
Every 2026 Ram is supported by a 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty, reinforcing the brand’s promise of durability and confidence.
The 2026 Ram Heavy Duty trucks offer two engine options: a standard 6.4L V8 HEMI with 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, and an available 6.7L High-Output Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 with 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque. Key specifications include a max towing capacity of up to 20,000 lbs for the 2500 with the diesel and 36,610 lbs for the 3500 diesel, as well as up to 15,000 lbs payload for some configurations. Both engines have specific transmissions, and the heavy-duty line includes features like available on-board power, standard adaptive cruise control, and advanced PTO functionality.
Engine and performance
Capacities
Ram 3500: Up to 3,443 kg (7,590 lbs) with the HEMI, and 2,123 kg (4,680 lbs) with the diesel
Features and technology
Photo Credit: Ram Truck