The main difference between the 2025 Ram 1500 and 2026 Ram 1500 is engine availability and refinement. While the 2025 model focused heavily on turbocharged Hurricane engines, the 2026 Ram 1500 expands buyer choice, including the return of the 5.7L HEMI® V8, along with continued improvements to technology, ride comfort, and trim-level features.
For buyers deciding whether to purchase now or wait, the 2026 model offers more flexibility without sacrificing the strengths that made the Ram 1500 one of the most comfortable full-size trucks on the road.
One of the most important differences for truck buyers is under the hood.
The 2025 Ram 1500 marked a major powertrain change with the introduction of the 3.0L Hurricane inline-six engine family. Buyers could also find the 3.6L Pentastar V6 depending on the configuration, but the 5.7L HEMI V8 was no longer part of the 2025 lineup.
For 2026, the 5.7L HEMI V8 returns as an available engine, joining the Hurricane choices.
That gives shoppers another reason to consider the newer model year without making the 2025 Ram 1500 obsolete. If you prefer a Hurricane-equipped truck, both model years deserve consideration. If your search specifically starts with wanting a new HEMI-powered Ram 1500, the 2026 becomes the relevant choice.
The 2025 and 2026 Ram 1500 are closely related when it comes to the overall cabin, technology and available comfort features. The 2026 model is not a complete redesign of the truck introduced for 2025, so shoppers should not expect the same level of interior change that came with the 2025 refresh.
More importantly, features can vary substantially by trim and configuration. When comparing a 2025 and 2026 Ram 1500, check the equipment on the individual trucks rather than assuming the newer model year automatically has a more advanced interior.
Depending on the truck you’re considering, compare features such as the infotainment system, driver display, seating, available passenger display and driver-assistance equipment.
For most buyers, engine choice and the equipment included on the specific truck are more meaningful differences than the model year alone.
If having a 5.7L HEMI V8 is one of your main requirements, the 2026 Ram 1500 is the clear choice between these two model years because the engine returns to the lineup for 2026.
If a HEMI is not a requirement, the comparison becomes much closer.
The Hurricane-equipped 2025 and 2026 trucks give shoppers options across both model years, so the better truck may simply be the one with the trim, equipment and configuration that fits your needs.
| Difference | 2025 Ram 1500 | 2026 Ram 1500 |
|---|---|---|
| 5.7L HEMI® V8 | Not available | Available |
| 3.0L Hurricane | Available | Available |
| High-Output Hurricane | Available on applicable models | Available on applicable models |
| 3.6L Pentastar® V6 | Available | Available |
| Full redesign? | No — the two model years share the same current Ram 1500 generation. | |
| Main reason to choose | Compare available trucks, equipment and value | HEMI V8 availability and newer model year |
For drivers around Prince Albert and across Saskatchewan, there isn’t one model year that is automatically right for everyone.
A shopper looking for a HEMI-powered new truck now has a reason to focus on the 2026 Ram 1500. Someone more interested in a Hurricane-powered truck can compare both years and focus on the individual vehicle.
That is particularly useful when your Ram 1500 needs to handle more than one job—such as everyday driving during the week, Saskatchewan winter conditions, rural roads, work use or recreational towing.
The best approach is to compare available 2025 and 2026 Ram 1500 trucks side by side and choose the configuration that fits how you intend to use it.
For Saskatchewan drivers who deal with snow, ice and cold-weather roads, see how the Ram 1500 performs in Saskatchewan winter driving before deciding which configuration fits your needs.
Understanding the difference between the 2025 and 2026 Ram 1500 also helps buyers plan for ownership beyond the initial purchase. Engine selection can influence maintenance schedules, parts compatibility, and long-term service considerations, while updated technology may affect how features are supported over time.
At Riverside Dodge, shoppers can compare both model years while also exploring Ram service options, genuine Ram parts, and financing solutions that align with the specific Ram 1500 configuration they choose.
The biggest difference for many buyers is engine availability. The 5.7L HEMI® V8 returns as an available engine for the 2026 Ram 1500 after not being offered for the 2025 model year.
Yes. The 5.7L HEMI® V8 is available for the 2026 Ram 1500. Availability can depend on the specific model and configuration, so confirm the engine installed in the truck you are considering.
No. The 2026 Ram 1500 is not a complete redesign compared with the 2025 model. The return of the available HEMI V8 is one of the most significant differences for shoppers comparing these two years.
The 2026 Ram 1500 makes more sense if you specifically want the available 5.7L HEMI V8 or prefer the newer model year. A 2025 Ram 1500 can still be a strong choice if its Hurricane or Pentastar engine, trim, equipment and available value better match your needs.
Riverside Dodge in Prince Albert can help shoppers compare available Ram 1500 inventory and confirm the engine, trim, packages and equipment on individual trucks.
Fill in the form below and our team will be in touch shortly.
