Compare Ram Truck Engine Options in Texas
Compare 2026 Ram Truck Engine Options in Corpus Christi, Texas
In South Texas, whether you're hauling heavy loads down Interstate 37 or navigating coastal winds near Corpus Christi, having the right powertrain in your Ram truck matters. The 2026 lineup-covering the Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500-offers a diverse range of engines tuned for towing, torque, and versatility. From the triumphant return of the HEMI V8 to high-output diesels, explore how each powertrain stacks up in horsepower, torque, towing capacity, and trim availability.
Ram 1500 Engine Options
The 2026 Ram 1500 brings back the beloved 5.7-liter HEMI V8-as a strong nod to enthusiasts-and complements it with advanced inline-six twin-turbo Hurricane engines and the versatile eTorque V6.
3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with eTorque: Produces about 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet torque. With its mild-hybrid assist, it can tow up to approximately 8,110 pounds and offers class-leading payload capacity (2,370 pounds)
3.0-liter Hurricane I6 (Standard Output): Delivers around 420 horsepower and 469 pound-feet of torque, enabling up to 11,550-pound towing when properly equipped.
3.0-liter Hurricane I6 (High-Output): Available on premium trims like Rebel RHO; puts out a beefy 540 horsepower and 521 pound-feet torque, towing up to 9,920 pounds with a payload around 1,520 pounds.
5.7-liter HEMI V8 with eTorque: The legendary V8 returns with 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet torque. Crew Cab, short-bed models can tow up to about 11,440 pounds, delivering that emotional growl Ram fans missed. It's offered on many trims-aside from Tungsten or RHO, which retain Hurricane engines.
| Features | 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with eTorque | 3.0-liter Hurricane I6 (Standard Output) | 3.0-liter Hurricane I6 (High-Output) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine power | 305 hp @ 6,400 rpm | 305 hp @ 6,400 rpm | 540 hp @ 5,700 rpm |
| Engine torque | 269 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm | 269 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm | 521 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm |
| Engine configuration | V6 | V6 | Inline 6 |
| City/Hwy/Combined MPG | 19 / 24 / 21 MPG | 19 / 24 / 21 MPG | 14 / 16 / 15 MPG |
Ram 2500 Engine Options
When you need serious work capability in Texas heat, the Ram 2500 brings both gas and diesel power to the table.
6.4-liter HEMI V8: Standard across most trims (e.g., Tradesman, Laramie), delivering around 405 horsepower and 429 pound-feet torque. Offers strong towing and reliability.
High-Output 6.7-liter Cummins Turbodiesel I6: The heavy-duty champ-430 horsepower and a extensive 1,075 pound-feet of torque. When properly equipped, it tows up to 20,000 pounds and has best-in-class diesel torque. Trim availability spans models like Warlock and Black Express, introduced in 2026.
| Features | 6.4-liter HEMI V8 | High-Output 6.7-liter Cummins Turbodiesel I6 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine power | 405 hp @ 5,600 rpm | 420 hp @ 2,800 rpm |
| Engine torque | 429 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 1,075 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm |
| Engine configuration | V8 | Inline 6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Ram 3500 Engine Options
For maximum towing capability across South Texas terrain, the Ram 3500 models similarly offer diesel muscle and dependable HEMI gas power.
6.4-liter HEMI V8: Found in trims such as Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie; around 405 horsepower and 429 pound-feet torque; solid gasoline option for heavy-duty tasks.
High-Output 6.7-liter Cummins Turbodiesel I6: Exclusively available on non-Chassis Cab 3500 models, delivers about 420 horsepower and a staggering 1,075 pound-feet torque-enabling up to 37,000 pounds towing on gooseneck/fifth-wheel setups.
| Features | 6.4-liter HEMI V8 | High-Output 6.7-liter Cummins Turbodiesel I6 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine power | 405 hp @ 5,600 rpm | 420 hp @ 2,800 rpm |
| Engine torque | 429 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 1,075 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm |
| Engine configuration | V8 | Inline 6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Picking the Right Engine for Your Ram in South Texas
Each engine brings a unique advantage depending on your driving needs and priorities. For those focused on efficiency, the 3.6-liter eTorque V6 is a strong daily driver, delivering fuel savings and moderate towing ability for weekend projects. The standard 3.0-liter Hurricane I6 strikes a perfect balance, offering smooth acceleration, refined strength, and towing power that stands out among light-duty trucks. For drivers craving character and raw performance, the legendary HEMI V8 returns for 2026, delivering its iconic rumble and impressive strength for both highway passing and trailering. When heavy-duty work calls, Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 drivers can choose the 6.4-liter HEMI gas engine or the High-Output Cummins diesel, a true leader in serious towing capability.
At Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep® Ram of Corpus Christi, our sales team can guide you through the trims and engine availability-from Sport and Warlock right through Limited Longhorn-so you can match your Ram truck to your towing needs across South Texas. Visit us to compare in person and find the perfect powertrain to haul boats, trailers, or weekend toys along Corpus Christi highways.
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Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Corpus Christi
4313 S Staples St
Corpus Christi, TX 78411-2703
- Sales: 8885047749
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Lithia's RAM Truck Center of Corpus Christi
3326 S. Padre Island Drive
Corpus Christi, TX 78415
- Sales: (888) 304-0734
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