Ram 1500 offers more V8 options in Canada than in the U.S.
Ram has made the Hemi V8 engine available on more trim levels of the 1500 pickup truck in Canada compared to the United States, including entry-level models. The expanded V8 availability in Canada highlights stronger demand for eight-cylinder engines despite the newer Hurricane inline-six producing more power.
Ram brought back the Hemi V8 engine for the 2026 model year after customer demand led the manufacturer to reconsider its decision. The reintroduction proved popular, with buyers purchasing V8-equipped trucks faster than the company could produce them.
In Canada, Stellantis has expanded V8 availability across additional Ram 1500 trim levels. The Hemi is now offered on the entry-level Tradesman model and the Express trim in Canada, options not available to U.S. customers who can only get the Pentastar V6 or Hurricane inline-six in these configurations. Additionally, Canada receives an exclusive Sport trim that also offers V8 power.
Ram has not yet confirmed whether it will expand V8 availability on lower U.S. trim levels. The decision will likely depend on customer demand and whether the economics of production justify offering the engine across more configurations stateside.