The RAM 1500 eTorque

Fresh from its latest makeover, the new 2026 RAM 1500 eTorque is large and in charge. Just ask my wife. At first, she didn’t want to get inside because she and pickups don’t get along very well. But we at Napleton News are always up for a good spirited spousal discussion, so hop in and let’s get to it.

What is eTorque?

eTorque is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system designed for use on a variety of Stellantis products. These range from various Jeep vehicles to RAM 1500 vehicles powered by either a 3.6-liter V6 or a 5.7-liter HEMI V8. It replaces the traditional alternator with a belt-driven motor generator. This results in improved performance, a smoother shifting transmission, better fuel economy and smoother start/stop functionality. As a bonus, it adds up to 130 lb-ft of torque to the overall package. In our case, this HEMI delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.

Other options include a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight six-cylinder engine delivering 420 horsepower, while a high-output version pumps out 540 hp. The base 3.6-liter V6 makes 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. These  engines are matched to eight-speed automatic transmissions with either rear- or four-wheel drive drivetrains.

Using the 3.0-liter twin turbo straight six-cylinder, the RAM 1500 has towing capabilities of up to 11,610 pounds.

How does the RAM 1500 eTorque look?

Following last year’s refresh, the tough look continues. Chiseled, firmed and evening tightened up a bit, it is still available in Regular, Quad Cab and Crew Cab versions with 6’4” or 5’7” foot beds.

An added bonus for buyers of these trucks is the lockable compartments on either side of the bed. Our sample included a power up-down tailgate and the multifunction tailgate with 60/40 barn doors.

Living inside the RAM 1500.

The RAM Tradesman is pretty basic. On the other hand, the RAM 1500 eTorque Tungsten is downright plush. Stitched leather covers very comfortable chairs, while the latest technology keeps you entertained. Wood trim is all around. So is RAM’s Uconnect5 system.

There’s seating for five or six if you squeeze the shorties into the backseat. But they won’t be pressed Back there, legroom is cavernous at 45.2 inches. There’s more, too. Underseat storage is in the back row. Just flip up the seat bottoms for storage cubbies that can keep valuables out of sight. It’s a handy and welcome feature.

Behind The Wheel of the RAM 1500 eTorque.  

Power, performance and plushness. Those are the three Ps behind the RAM 1500 eTorque. This half-ton pickup is one of the best riding trucks we have experienced, which is because of the standard rear coil spring suspension found at the rear of the RAM. Gone are the rough-riding leaf springs of yesteryear in favor of a modern arrangement that rivals many cars today.

Power comes on smoothly from the 5.7-liter E-Torque HEMI V8. Although it wasn’t our new favorite, the twin-turbo inline 6-cylinder, it still displayed that old Hemi one-two punch that had us on cloud nine every time we put our foot into it.

Once we were at speed, the engine took care of its fuel consumption by shutting down some of its cylinders with cylinder deactivation. The eTorque system helps as well by smoothing out the start/stop feature and even recovers battery energy with brake regeneration.

Overall, this is one of those trucks that makes you forget that you are actually in a, um, truck. At that point, just carry on. This is one of those vehicles that can take you from the country store to the country club without breaking a sweat.

RAM 1500 eTorque Specifications