RAM has brought the 5.7-litre HEMI V8 back to the UAE-market RAM 1500 after the pickup moved to six-cylinder power for the 2025 model year. The returning V8 is available on the Reel, Limited and Limited Night Edition variants, giving buyers the option of choosing the familiar eight-cylinder powertrain alongside RAM’s newer 6-cylinder engines.

The HEMI V8 is paired with the 8-speed automatic transmission and eTorque mild-hybrid technology. RAM says the engine delivers 395hp and 556Nm of torque, while the UAE return follows strong demand from customers for the V8’s performance and distinctive exhaust note.

RAM 1500 HEMI V8 price and availability

The HEMI V8 has returned to the UAE RAM 1500 range across the Rebel, Limited and Limited Night Edition trims. The local distributor has not announced official UAE pricing for all three V8 variants in its launch announcement, so buyers should check with authorised RAM dealers for current prices and availability.

The HEMI comeback is also expected to extend beyond the RAM 1500. RAM has confirmed plans for the 1500 TRX SRT and Rumble Bee muscle trucks to join the Middle East line-up in 2027.

RAM 1500 HEMI V8 performance and capability

The 5.7-litre naturally aspirated V8 produces 395hp and 556Nm and uses technologies including variable camshaft timing and cylinder deactivation. The Middle East-specification RAM 1500 HEMI V8 has a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,266kg and a maximum payload of 748kg.

The eTorque mild-hybrid system is designed to support efficiency and drivability while retaining the character of the V8. The powertrain also uses an eight-speed automatic transmission.

RAM 1500 Rebel HEMI V8

The RAM 1500 Rebel is the more off-road-focused version of the pickup. Along with the V8, it gets off-road-tuned Bilstein performance shock absorbers, underbody skid plates, an electronic locking rear differential and 18-inch black wheels.

The Rebel HEMI V8 also comes with a G/T Performance Exhaust, 360-degree Surround View Camera and RamBox cargo management system. Inside, it features a 14.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen, 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, dual-pane panoramic sunroof and leather-trimmed seats.

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RAM 1500 Limited HEMI V8

The Limited takes a more premium approach, combining the returning V8 with a luxury-focused cabin and technology features. It gets premium quilted leather seats with massage functions, a 14.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen, RamBox cargo management and a 360-degree Surround View Camera.

The Limited also comes with a G/T Performance Exhaust as standard, while 22-inch premium wheels and available four-corner air suspension add to its comfort-focused character.

RAM 1500 Limited Night Edition

The Limited Night Edition adds a darker exterior treatment to the luxury-oriented pickup. It builds on the Limited with 22-inch black wheels, black exterior accents, a sport hood and dual exhaust outlets with black tips.

This gives buyers a more aggressive-looking version of the V8-powered Limited without changing the core powertrain.

Why does the HEMI V8 still matter?

The 5.7-litre HEMI V8 has long been a defining part of the RAM 1500's character, combining strong low-end torque with the distinctive sound associated with American V8 pickups. Its return follows RAM's switch to the Hurricane six-cylinder engine for the 2025 model year, making the V8 comeback particularly significant for buyers who preferred the previous powertrain.

The returning HEMI produces 395hp and 556Nm and is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It also features eTorque mild-hybrid assistance, which uses a 48-volt motor-generator to support acceleration, stop-start operation and efficiency without changing the V8's character.

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FAQs

1. Is the RAM 1500 HEMI V8 available in the UAE?

Yes, the 2026 RAM 1500 HEMI V8 has returned to the UAE, with the engine offered on the Rebel, Limited and Limited Night Edition variants.

2. What is the power output of the RAM 1500 HEMI V8?

The 5.7-litre HEMI V8 produces 395hp and 556Nm of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and eTorque mild-hybrid technology.

3. What is the towing capacity of the RAM 1500 HEMI V8?

The Middle East-specification RAM 1500 HEMI V8 has a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,266kg, making it suitable for buyers who need a powerful pickup for towing and heavy-duty tasks.