Dartmouth Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM

2026 RAM 1500

Nova Scotia drivers need trucks that handle Atlantic weather, rural roads, and everyday hauling. The 2026 Ram 1500 answers those needs with multiple engine options, two cab configurations, and available four-wheel drive. From construction sites to cottage country, this full-size pickup carries materials, tows trailers, and seats up to six people. The return of the 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 gives buyers another powertrain choice alongside the turbocharged six-cylinder and base V-6. Dartmouth Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has the Ram 1500 lineup ready for local test drives and detailed walkthroughs.

Your Guide to the 2026 RAM 1500

Exterior

Ram's signature crosshair grille anchors the front end, flanked by LED headlights that come standard across all models. The 2026 Ram 1500 comes in Quad Cab or Crew Cab body styles, each offering either a 1.6-metre or 1.9-metre cargo box. Crew Cab models with the short box measure 5,903 millimetres overall, while long box versions extend to 6,129 millimetres. The width stays consistent at 2,064 millimetres, providing stable road presence on Maritime highways.

Four-wheel-drive models offer 206 millimetres of front axle ground clearance, suitable for winter conditions and unpaved access roads common in rural Nova Scotia. The tailgate opens to 1,525 millimetres wide, accommodating plywood sheets and other building materials. Approach angles range from 17.9 degrees on two-wheel-drive models to 31 degrees on the off-road RHO trim. Available equipment includes spray-in bedliners, tonneau covers, and side steps. Wheel sizes span from 18 inches on work-oriented trims to 20 inches on premium models.

2026 RAM 1500

Interior

The front seats adjust through 220 millimetres of travel and recline across 71 degrees of total range. Shoulder room measures 1,676 millimetres up front, with similar dimensions in the back seat. Crew Cab models deliver 1,138 millimetres of rear legroom, while Quad Cab versions provide 896 millimetres. Both configurations seat six when equipped with a front bench, or five with bucket seats and a centre console. Door pockets, console bins, and available under-seat storage provide space for tools, gear, and personal items.

Cloth upholstery comes standard on base trims, with leather available on higher models. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel address cold Maritime mornings, while ventilated seats handle humid summer days. The rear seat folds to create additional interior cargo space when passenger capacity isn't needed. Dashboard controls sit within easy reach, and the steering wheel adjusts for both height and distance. Interior volume measures 1.8 cubic metres in the front row and ranges from 1.5 to 1.9 cubic metres in the rear depending on cab style.

2026 RAM 1500

Features

2026 RAM 1500

Powertrain

The 2026 Ram 1500 offers four engines, each matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 with eTorque generates 305 horsepower and 365 newton-metres of torque. This naturally aspirated engine includes a 48-volt hybrid system that smooths start/stop operation and adds up to 122 newton-metres during acceleration. Fuel economy reaches 20/25/22 mpg in two-wheel-drive configuration, with slightly lower numbers for four-wheel-drive models.

The 3.0-litre Straight-Six Turbo delivers 420 horsepower and 635 newton-metres through twin turbochargers and direct injection. For drivers wanting V-8 sound and torque, the returning 5.7-litre HEMI produces 395 horsepower and 556 newton-metres. This engine uses variable cam timing and cylinder deactivation to balance performance with fuel consumption. At the top of the range, the 3.0-litre High Output Straight-Six Turbo in RHO and Tungsten trims generates 540 horsepower and 707 newton-metres. Towing capacity peaks at 5,203 kilograms (11,470 lbs) with the HEMI V-8, while maximum payload reaches 794 kilograms (1,750 lbs) depending on configuration.

2026 RAM 1500

Technology

The Uconnect system handles infotainment duties through a touchscreen interface positioned in the centre stack. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, letting you mirror smartphone functions through the truck's display. USB ports throughout the cabin keep devices charged, while available wireless charging eliminates cable clutter for compatible phones. Navigation, when equipped, provides turn-by-turn directions across the Maritimes and beyond.

Available driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, which maintains set following distances on Highway 102 and other major routes. Blind-spot monitoring watches adjacent lanes during merges, with rear cross-path detection alerting you to approaching traffic when backing up. Forward collision warning monitors the road ahead, triggering automatic emergency braking if needed to reduce impact severity. A surround-view camera system provides overhead perspective views when parking or manoeuvring around job sites. The available head-up display projects speed, navigation, and other information onto the windshield within your sight line.

Versions

The 2026 Ram 1500 lineup includes multiple trim levels, each building on the truck's core capabilities with specific features and styling.

  • Tradesman -- Base work truck with vinyl flooring, steel wheels, and commercial-focused equipment
  • Express -- Adds body-colour bumpers, chrome grille accents, and upgraded interior materials
  • Warlock -- Blacked-out styling package with sport suspension and unique wheels
  • Big Horn -- Mid-level trim featuring cloth upholstery, chrome details, and enhanced technology
  • Sport -- Performance-oriented appearance with sport suspension and distinctive badging
  • Laramie -- Premium leather interior, heated seats, upgraded audio, and chrome exterior accents
  • Rebel -- Off-road configuration with lifted suspension, skid plates, all-terrain tyres, and hill descent control
  • Longhorn -- Western-themed luxury trim with premium leather, wood accents, and exclusive styling
  • Limited -- Top comfort model with refined materials, advanced technology, and polished details
  • RHO -- High-performance variant with the 540-horsepower engine, upgraded suspension, and aggressive styling
  • Tungsten -- Flagship luxury model with exclusive finishes, massage seats, and top-tier technology features

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the eTorque system work in the Ram 1500?

The eTorque system uses a 48-volt battery and belt-driven motor generator instead of a traditional alternator. This setup provides smooth start/stop operation, adds torque during acceleration, and captures energy during braking. On the 3.6-litre V-6, it can add up to 122 newton-metres during initial acceleration. On the 5.7-litre HEMI V-8, it provides up to 176 newton-metres. The system also enables the engine to restart more quickly and quietly than conventional start/stop systems.

What's the difference between the Quad Cab and Crew Cab?

The Quad Cab uses smaller back doors and provides 896 millimetres of rear legroom on a 3,570-millimetre wheelbase. The Crew Cab features four full-size doors and delivers 1,138 millimetres of rear legroom on wheelbases ranging from 3,672 to 3,898 millimetres depending on box length. Both configurations seat six with a front bench or five with bucket seats. Crew Cab models offer more rear passenger space and easier access to the back seat.

ajax loader2