Is The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn HEMI® Still The Sweet Spot In The Ram Lineup?

The return of the Gen3 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 to the Ram 1500 lineup for the 2026 model year is something a lot of Ram fans have been waiting for. After a brief absence during the truck’s mid-cycle action (MCA) refresh, the legendary V8 is back under the hood, and for many buyers that alone is enough to spark renewed interest in the Ram brand.

But how does the engine fit into the broader picture of the truck itself? That was exactly what I wanted to find out.

I recently spent a week behind the wheel of a 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4×4 with the 5-foot, 7-inch box, putting it through the kinds of everyday situations most owners will encounter. From daily driving around Metro Detroit to highway runs and winter conditions in Michigan, the goal was simple: determine whether the Big Horn still represents the sweet spot in the Ram lineup.

The answer is a little more complicated than it used to be.

The Big Horn: Ram’s Most Important Trim

The Big Horn sits near the middle of the Ram 1500 lineup. It is positioned above the basic work truck trims but below the more upscale models like the Laramie and Limited.

More importantly, it is Ram’s highest-volume trims, which means this is the truck configuration many buyers actually end up purchasing.

Press vehicles are often fully loaded trucks pushing $80,000 to $90,000, which is not always realistic for the average buyer. The Big Horn is supposed to represent a more attainable version of the Ram 1500.

However, the truck I tested still carried a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of around $64,000.

Now, it is important to note that these trucks often have incentives on the hood depending on where you live in the United States, which can lower the real-world purchase price. But for the purpose of this review, I am talking about the truck’s actual MSRP as configured.

And that MSRP raises an important question. Is the Big Horn still the value leader it once was?

Is Big Horn The Value Leader Still?

Back in 2019, I owned a Ram 1500 Laramie Sport that was pretty much fully loaded. It had leather everywhere, ventilated seats, a sunroof, larger wheels, and a lot of premium touches that made it feel like a true upscale truck. At the time, that Laramie sat firmly in the luxury end of the Ram lineup.

Fast forward to today, and this 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn, despite being positioned lower in the lineup, ends up landing surprisingly close to that same pricing territory once you factor in how the market has changed. That really highlights just how much prices have climbed across the entire truck segment over the last several years.

Because of that shift, it changes how people look at trims like the Big Horn. For a long time, the Big Horn felt like the value play in the Ram lineup. It gave you upgraded interior materials, more technology, and additional comfort features without stepping all the way up into Laramie-level pricing.

But once you start adding packages and options today, the Big Horn can easily creep into price territory that used to belong to much more premium trucks.

And that is really the main issue here.

The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn is still a very good truck. It is roomy, comfortable, easy to live with, and packed with enough technology and convenience features to satisfy most buyers. But compared to where the market used to be, it does not feel like the bargain it once was.

That is where some of Ram’s newer packages start to make a lot of sense.

Models like the Ram 1500 Express and Black Express offer a more budget-friendly entry point into the lineup. Yes, they use a more basic interior that is largely based on the Tradesman work truck, so you lose some of the nicer finishes found in the Big Horn. But in today’s pricing environment, those trucks can feel like a much stronger value.

In many cases, they come in roughly $10,000 less than a similarly equipped Big Horn, while still giving you the same core truck underneath. You still get the same platform, the same powertrains—including the available 5.7-liter HEMI V8—and the same overall capability.

So while the Big Horn continues to offer a nice balance of comfort and features, buyers who are focused purely on value may find themselves looking more closely at those Express-based trims, which deliver much of the same truck for significantly less money.

A Cabin That Still Sets The Standard

One area where the Ram 1500 continues to stand out in the full-size pickup segment is the interior. Even several years into the life of the current DT-generation truck, Ram’s cabin design still feels like one of the most comfortable and well-thought-out interiors in the segment.

The Crew Cab layout in particular is where the truck really shines. There is a tremendous amount of space inside, and five adults can ride comfortably without feeling cramped. Headroom is generous, even for taller drivers, and there is plenty of shoulder room so passengers are not bumping into each other. The wide cabin design gives the truck an open feel that is immediately noticeable when you step inside.

The center console is another highlight. Ram continues to offer one of the largest and most practical consoles in the segment, providing plenty of room for storing everything from phones and charging cables to larger items you might want to keep out of sight. For anyone who spends a lot of time in their truck, having that extra storage space makes everyday use much easier.

The cloth seats in the Big Horn were also a pleasant surprise. While many buyers gravitate toward leather interiors, these cloth seats are actually very comfortable. They are soft, supportive, and provide a bit more cushion than some of the firmer leather setups found in higher trims. In colder climates like Michigan, cloth seats can also feel more comfortable during winter months since they do not get as cold as leather.

The Big Horn trim also adds some upgraded materials and finishes compared to the base work-truck models. The dashboard, door panels, and trim pieces all have a slightly more refined feel, helping the cabin feel more upscale without pushing it into full luxury territory.

Overall, the interior of the Ram 1500 Big Horn still feels thoughtful, spacious, and comfortable, which is exactly what many truck buyers are looking for in a daily driver. Even without all the bells and whistles of higher trims, the cabin remains one of the Ram’s biggest strengths.

Technology That Feels Practical

One thing Ram continues to do well with the DT-generation Ram 1500 is balance modern technology with real-world usability. In a time when many manufacturers are moving everything into large touchscreens, Ram still manages to keep things practical—especially in trims like the Big Horn.

The truck I tested came equipped with the 12-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which remains one of the best setups in the segment. It is large enough to display multiple functions at once, but it does not go overboard by eliminating essential controls. The interface itself is simple and responsive, allowing you to split the screen between navigation, media, climate controls, or vehicle information.

Just as important, Ram still includes physical buttons and knobs for key functions like volume, tuning, and climate control. That might seem like a small detail, but when you are driving or towing, being able to adjust something without digging through menus makes a big difference.

Personally, I actually prefer this 12-inch system over the larger 14.5-inch screen offered in higher trims. The bigger display looks impressive, but it replaces several physical controls with digital ones. If something happens to the screen, you lose access to those functions. With the 12-inch system, you still have that backup layer of real controls.

The gauge cluster follows a similar philosophy. Instead of going fully digital, Ram uses traditional analog-style gauges paired with a 7-inch TFT display in the center. It is easy to read and provides all the important information without feeling overly complicated.

Another improvement I noticed is the wireless charging pad. Earlier Ram trucks could be a bit finicky about where you placed your phone, but the redesigned charging area in this truck works much better. You can simply drop your phone into the tray and it starts charging right away.

Overall, the technology inside the Big Horn feels well thought-out and practical, offering modern features without sacrificing usability. In a truck that many owners rely on for everyday tasks, that approach makes a lot of sense.

The HEMI® Returns

Of course, the biggest story surrounding the 2026 Ram 1500 is the return of the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8. For many Ram buyers, the HEMI is more than just an engine option—it is a big part of the truck’s identity.

The engine continues to produce 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, numbers that have stayed largely the same for several years. While those figures might not look groundbreaking compared to some of the newer turbocharged engines on the market, the HEMI remains a proven and dependable powertrain that many truck owners trust.

This V8 has been around since the early 2000s and has built a strong reputation for reliability when properly maintained. It delivers smooth power, a familiar V8 sound, and the kind of straightforward performance many truck buyers still prefer.

Bringing the engine back into the refreshed Ram 1500, however, was not as simple as just dropping it back under the hood.

When the truck received its mid-cycle refresh for 2025, Ram introduced an all-new Atlantis electrical architecture that was originally designed around the assumption that the HEMI would no longer be part of the lineup. Once the decision was made to bring the V8 back, engineers had to move quickly to make everything work.

That meant integrating the engine into the updated system, rewriting software, and modifying several control modules so the powertrain could properly communicate with the truck’s electronics.

Incredibly, the engineering team managed to complete the work in about six months, allowing the HEMI to return for the 2026 model year. Because the engine had only been absent for a short time, Ram was also able to bring it back without having to go through a full certification process again, helping speed up its return to production.

Understanding The eTorque System

One detail that has sparked plenty of conversation among Ram fans is the fact that the 5.7-liter for 2026 is only available with the eTorque mild-hybrid system.

The eTorque system essentially replaces the traditional starter motor with a belt-driven motor generator connected to a small battery pack. This setup allows the truck to provide a brief torque assist during acceleration while also powering the truck’s auto start-stop system. When the truck comes to a stop, the engine can shut off to help improve efficiency, while the battery keeps accessories running.

When it is time to move again, the motor generator quickly restarts the engine and can even provide a small boost of torque as the truck begins to accelerate. In everyday driving, the system works fairly seamlessly and helps smooth out the start-stop function so it does not feel as abrupt as some other systems on the market.

Still, some buyers would prefer to see a non-eTorque version of the HEMI return, largely because it removes an extra layer of complexity and cost. There has been speculation that Ram could eventually bring back a traditional version of the HEMI in future model years, but for now the mild-hybrid setup is the only configuration offered.

From a driving perspective, however, the system performs well. Start-stop events are smooth and quick, and the additional torque assist helps the truck feel responsive when pulling away from a stoplight or creeping through traffic. In normal driving situations, most owners will likely forget the system is even there.

Driving Experience: Familiar And Comfortable

Out on the road, the HEMI-powered Ram 1500 delivers exactly the kind of driving experience most truck buyers expect from a full-size pickup with a V8 under the hood.

One of the first things you notice is the sound. The 5.7-liter HEMI still produces that deep, unmistakable V8 rumble that many Ram fans have come to love over the years. This truck also benefits from the performance-tuned exhaust system, which gives the engine a bit more presence, especially during cold starts. On chilly Michigan mornings, firing up the truck gives you that classic muscle-truck sound that reminds you exactly why so many people wanted the HEMI to return.

Acceleration feels smooth and confident. The HEMI is not trying to be the most powerful engine in the segment anymore, but it delivers its power in a very predictable and linear way. Instead of relying on turbochargers, the naturally aspirated V8 provides a steady flow of torque that feels relaxed and easy to control in everyday driving.

Compared to the newer twin-turbo HURRICANE I6 engines, the HEMI definitely has a more traditional character. The HURRICANE engines produce more horsepower and torque on paper, but the HEMI offers a driving feel that many truck owners still prefer. Power builds naturally as you press the throttle, without the sudden surge that can sometimes come with turbocharged engines.

For towing, hauling, or simply cruising down the highway, the larger displacement V8 just feels at home in a full-size pickup. It may not be the newest engine in Ram’s lineup, but it still delivers the kind of smooth, dependable performance that made it popular in the first place.

Practical Features That Make A Difference

The Ram 1500 has always stood out for offering smart, real-world features that actually make daily truck use easier, and that continues with the 2026 model. Beyond the engine and interior comfort, there are several practical details that really help the truck shine in everyday situations.

One of my personal favorites remains the multifunction tailgate. Instead of just dropping down like a traditional tailgate, Ram’s design uses a 60/40 split that allows the tailgate to swing open like a set of barn doors. This makes it much easier to access cargo without having to lean over the entire bed. If you are loading tools, grabbing groceries, or pulling something out from the front of the bed, being able to step closer to the cargo makes a huge difference.

Once you start using it regularly, it quickly becomes one of those features that feels indispensable. It is especially useful when loading items from a cart or reaching into the bed at places like Home Depot or the grocery store. The design also works even when a trailer is attached, which was part of the reason Ram engineered the split configuration the way it did.

The truck I tested also came equipped with RamBox bed storage, which adds a pair of lockable compartments built into the sides of the bed. While the system does take up a small amount of space along the bed walls, it offers a surprising amount of versatility.

These compartments are great for storing tools, tie-down straps, emergency gear, or even groceries if you do not want items sliding around in the bed. Because they are lockable, they also provide a secure place to keep valuable equipment out of sight.

They can even double as coolers. You can fill them with ice for tailgating or outdoor activities, and the weather itself often helps keep food and drinks cold during the winter months.

Features like the multi-function tailgate and RamBox system are small details on paper, but in real-world use they are the kinds of thoughtful touches that make living with a truck easier every day.

Where The Big Horn Starts To Show Its Limits

Despite all of its strengths, there are a few areas where the Ram 1500 Big Horn starts to feel a bit expensive for what it offers—especially when you look closely at the sticker price.

The truck I tested carried an MSRP of around $64,000, and once you get into that price territory, buyers naturally start expecting certain convenience and appearance features to be included. In some cases, the Big Horn delivers. In others, it still leaves you wanting a little more.

Part of that pricing comes from the Big Horn Level 2 Equipment Group, which adds $2,895 to the sticker. On paper, it sounds expensive, but the package actually includes a long list of upgrades that significantly improve the truck’s comfort and technology.

That package brings in features like the 12-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with built-in navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. It also adds the Alpine premium audio system with nine amplified speakers and a subwoofer, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and Ram Connect connected services.

Beyond the technology, the Level 2 Equipment Group also adds several practical upgrades. These include 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, power-adjustable pedals, a power-sliding rear window, rear window defroster, automatic-dimming mirrors, power-folding heated exterior mirrors, and body-color fender flares. The interior also gets deluxe cloth bucket seats, LED interior lighting, a premium overhead console, second-row in-floor storage bins, and additional USB charging ports.

You also get convenience features like a universal garage door opener, security alarm, power tailgate release, and a 400-watt inverter with 115-volt power outlets, which can be extremely useful for running tools, charging electronics, or powering equipment on the jobsite.

So while the Level 2 package adds nearly $3,000 to the price, it does bring a substantial amount of equipment with it.

However, even with that package included, there are still a few details that stand out. For example, the truck I tested did not include running boards, which can make climbing into the cab a little more difficult for shorter passengers. The rear taillights and cargo lights are still traditional bulbs, meaning you have to step up to higher trims like the RHO to get full LED taillights.

Another noticeable omission is passive entry, meaning you still have to manually unlock the truck using the key fob rather than simply grabbing the door handle.

None of these things are major issues individually. But when you are talking about a truck priced in the mid-$60,000 range, they start to add up. Buyers at this price point tend to expect those kinds of convenience features to already be included.

And that is where the Big Horn starts to walk a fine line. It still offers a great mix of comfort and technology, but depending on how it is optioned, the price can climb quickly—and that can make buyers start looking harder at what they are actually getting for their money.

The Value Question

Ultimately, the biggest question surrounding the Ram 1500 Big Horn today comes down to one thing: value.

There is no denying that the truck itself remains excellent. The Ram 1500 continues to offer one of the most comfortable interiors in the full-size pickup segment, a smooth ride, and a well-thought-out mix of capability and everyday usability. Adding the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 back into the equation only strengthens its appeal, bringing back the familiar V8 sound and character that many Ram owners still prefer.

However, the reality is that pricing across the entire full-size truck market has climbed dramatically in recent years. Inflation, rising production costs, new technology, and increased equipment levels have all pushed prices higher across the board.

Because of that, the Big Horn no longer occupies the same position it once did.

In the past, the Big Horn was widely seen as the sweet spot of the lineup—a trim that gave buyers upgraded materials, useful technology, and additional comfort features without pushing into luxury-truck pricing. It was the trim many people recommended if you wanted the best balance between price and equipment.

Today, once you begin adding packages like the Level 2 Equipment Group, larger wheels, bed features, and other options, the Big Horn can easily start creeping into pricing territory that used to belong to higher-end trims like the Laramie.

That does not mean the Big Horn is a bad truck. Far from it.

What it means is that buyers now need to be a little more thoughtful when configuring their truck. Depending on how it is optioned, some buyers may find themselves looking at simpler trims like the Express or Black Express for better value, while others may decide to step up to a higher trim if the pricing gap becomes small enough.

In today’s market, getting the best value out of the Ram 1500 lineup often comes down to choosing the right combination of trim and options to suit your lifestyle.