Hemi vs. Hurricane: Which 2026 Ram 1500 Engine Is the Best Choice for You?

Ram brought the Hemi V8 back—but does that actually make it the best engine for the Ram 1500? In this head-to-head test, we compare two nearly identical Ram 1500 trucks: one with the 5.7L Hemi V8, and one with the twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six. Same trim, same transmission, same options—only the engines are different. We break down: - Power, torque, and acceleration - Fuel economy with and without load - Real-world towing and payload testing - Cost, availability, and trim restrictions - Emotional appeal vs. logical truck buying One engine sounds incredible. The other simply does everything better. 👉 Read the full story at MotorTrend.com 0:00 – Hemi vs. Hurricane: Why This Comparison Matters 0:52 – Engine Specs: V8 vs. Twin-Turbo I-6 1:58 – Driving Impressions Begin 2:01 – Hemi Sound & Performance Exhaust 2:21 – Why the Hemi Disappeared (and Came Back) 4:05 – Pricing, Trim Limits, and Buying Rules 5:15 – Hurricane Sound & Daily Driving 6:21 – Payload Test: 1,000 lbs in the Bed 7:55 – Towing Test: 6,900-lb Boat Trailer 8:49 – Head vs. Heart: Which Engine Should You Choose? 8:58 – Final Verdict & Wrap-Up MotorTrend is the ultimate destination for gearheads looking for the latest automotive research and news. Find the right car, truck or suv for you. ➡️: https://www.motortrend.com/car-finder Follow MotorTrend for the latest! MotorTrend News: https://www.motortrend.com Facebook: / motortrend Instagram: / motortrend Twitter(X): / motortrend TikTok: / motortrend MotorTrend preferred music partner: Universal Production Music MotorTrend is a fully owned subsidiary of Hearst Communications Inc.