2026 Ram 1500 vs 2025 Ram 1500: What’s New?
Orangeville Chrysler’s Ram 1500 Pickup Truck Comparison Guide
When it comes to choosing a full-size pickup, a Ram 1500 comparison (especially between the 2025 & 2026 Ram 1500 model years) is one of the most common searches among truck buyers today! Whether you’re trying to decide which pickup truck is right for your lifestyle and budget, or just interested in what’s new on board, our experts at Orangeville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram have got your back with this comprehensive comparison guide covering the Ram 1500’s design features, onboard amenities, towing & power levels, and our final verdict:
- 2025 Ram 1500: Available discounts on remaining inventory & turbocharged performance specs
- 2026 Ram 1500: New trims, wider range of powertrains, and return of the popular HEMI V8
Keep reading as our team puts the 2025 & 2026 Ram 1500 head to head and see what’s new, what stays the same, and test drive your favourite with us in Orangeville, ON!
Read More About the 2026 Ram 1500 at Orangeville Chrysler:
2026 Ram 1500 Technology Guide
2026 Ram 1500 Towing Guide
What Engines are Available for the 2026 Ram 1500?
The 2025 Ram 1500 was at the top of the light-duty pickup truck game and introduced a big shift toward modern performance with the 305 horsepower 3.6L Pentastar V6 & eTorque mild-hybrid system, and 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six engines (standard 420 horsepower Output Hurricane and the and High Output Hurricane with up to 540 horsepower). These engines focused on strong acceleration, improved fuel efficiency, and smooth daily driving while still offering excellent towing performance, so it’s no wonder that they carried over for the 2026 model year.
2026 is by no means just a carryover year, though! The 2026 Ram 1500 expands its powertrain choices with the discontinued 5.7 L HEMI V8 back by popular demand with up to 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque at its disposal. With this added powertrain choice, the 2026 Ram 1500 showcases Ram’s consideration for driver needs and gives buyers more flexibility, offering both cutting-edge turbocharged performance and classic V8 muscle with that unmistakable exhaust note.
| 2026 Ram 1500 Engine Options | ||||
| Engine | 3.0 L High-Output Twin Turbo Hurricane | 3.0 L I6 SO Twin Turbo Hurricane | 3.6 L Pentastar V6 with eTorque | 5.7 L HEMI V8 |
| Horsepower | 540 | 420 | 305 | 395 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 521 | 469 | 269 | 410 |
| Max Towing (kg / lb) | 4,500 / 9,920 | 5,248 / 11,570 | 3,679 / 8,110 | 5,130 / 11,310 |
| Max Payload (kg / lb) | 690 / 1,520 | 898 / 1,980 | 1,075 / 2,370 | 794 / 1,750 |
| Model Availability | Limited, Limited Longhorn, RHO, Tungsten | Sport, Rebel, Laramie, Tradesman, Big Horn | Tradesman, Big Horn | Tradesman, Big Horn, Limited, Longhorn, Sport, Laramie |
How Much Can the 2026 Ram 1500 Tow?
Of course, we can’t talk about the performance of a Ram 1500 pickup truck without talking about the incredible towing power at its disposal. Simply put, both the 2025 & 2025 Ram 1500 are highly capable for work and recreation, with towing power up to 11,500 lbs supported by a 2,300 lb payload rating.
How Smooth is the 2026 Ram 1500’s Driving Experience?
One reason the Ram 1500 consistently ranks high in truck reviews is its comfort, and both the 2025 Ram 1500 & 2026 Ram 1500 offer smooth stability at highway speeds and while towing heavy loads. What’s more, the 2025 Ram 1500 & 2026 Ram 1500 feature available air suspension that lets you adjust your ride height on the fly, protecting your ride quality and underbody components from bumps and drops on your route. The result is a pickup truck that feels like a luxury SUV for everyday driving!
What’s New Inside the 2026 Ram 1500’s Cabin?
Now we’ve seen what the 2025 Ram 1500 & 2026 Ram 1500 can do, let’s step inside the cabin!
The 2025 Ram 1500 underwent a major refresh with added amenities, making it one of the most luxurious trucks in the half-ton segment:
- Available 14.5-Inch Touchscreen
- Available Passenger-Side Display
- Premium materials on 2025 Ram 1500 Laramie, Limited, and Higher Trims
- Available Heated, Ventilated, and Massaging Seats
- Advanced Driver-Assist Systems
The 2026 Ram 1500 builds on the 2025 Ram 1500’s strong foundations and takes its cabin even further with additional luxury features:
- Expanded Availability of Large Screens Across Trims
- New Express Trim with Sporty Styling at a Lower Price
- Software Refinements for Infotainment and Driver-Assist Systems
What Trim Levels are Available for the 2026 Ram 1500?
The 2025 Ram 1500 features 5 versatile trims with distinct characters, outfitted with unique features and upholstery. Meanwhile, the 2026 Ram 1500 adds the exclusive Express trim and expands engine availability across all trims in the 2026 lineup. As a result, the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup is more flexible, especially for buyers who want style without stepping into luxury pricing.
| 2025 Ram 1500 & 2026 Ram 1500 Trim Levels | ||
| Trim Level | 2025 Ram 1500 | 2026 Ram 1500 |
| Tradesman | ✔ | ✔ |
| Big Horn | ✔ | ✔ |
| Laramie | ✔ | ✔ |
| Rebel | ✔ | ✔ |
| Limited | ✔ | ✔ |
| Express | x | ✔ |
Verdict: 2025 vs 2026 Ram 1500: Which Should You Choose?
Take advantage of clearout sale bargains and potentially better pricing with the 2025 Ram 1500, or spring for the 2026 Ram 1500 for a host of unique features and upgrades like the new & exclusive 2026 Ram 1500 Express trim, latest tech & infotainment and safety software, wider range of trim and engine combos, and the return of the popular HEMI V8 engine with its unmistakable roar. In short, the 2025 Ram 1500 is ideal for buyers focused on value and turbocharged performance, while the 2026 Ram 1500 is perfect for drivers who want maximum choice and the return of V8 power. Either way, you’re getting one of the most refined and capable full-size trucks on the road today!
Shop the 2026 Ram 1500 at Orangeville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
Whichever truck you choose, you can shop the 2025 Ram 1500 and 2026 Ram 1500 now at Orangeville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and feel the difference for yourself with a test drive in Orangeville, ON! Got questions about the Ram 1500’s features, availability, financing options, trade-ins and available accessories? We’re here to assist! Get in touch with our team and let us know how we can help!