2026 Ram 1500 Express Returns with Aggressive Looks and Strong Value

Ram is reviving one of its most popular nameplates with the launch of the 2026 Ram 1500 Express. Starting at $44,495 (including destination), the new Express delivers a strong mix of aggressive styling, practical features, and competitive pricing—making it one of the best values in the Ram lineup.

The Express slots back into the lineup as a versatile option. It is available in both Crew Cab and Quad Cab configurations, with your choice of two-wheel-drive (2WD) or four-wheel-drive (4×4). Orders are open now, and availability is expected in the third quarter of 2025.

“The Express is the latest drop in Ram’s product offensive,” said Tim Kuniskis, Ram CEO. “We started the 2025 model year with a new Ram 1500 and new Ram Heavy Duty lineup. With the platforms refreshed, we begin rolling out trim level enhancements.”

What’s Under The Hood? – 

Ram offers two engine choices for the 2026 Express:

Standard: 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with eTorque Mild-Hybrid Engine

• 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque

• Up to 20 MPG city, 25 MPG highway, and 22 MPG combined (2WD)

Optional: Twin-Turbo 3.0-liter HURRICANE Standard-Output (S/O) I6 Engine (+ $1,695)

• 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque

• Towing capacity up to 11,550 lbs (Quad Cab 2WD with HURRICANE engine)

• Up to 18 MPG city, 25 MPG highway, and 21 MPG combined (2WD)

Standard Safety and Tech – 

Ram didn’t cut corners on safety and driver assistance. Standard features on every 2026 Ram 1500 Express include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Pedestrian Emergency Braking

Design: Minimalist and Menacing – 

The 2026 Ram 1500 Express visually stands out with a monochromatic, badge-less design. A gloss-black grille surrounds the truck, while body-colored front and rear bumpers sharpen its road presence. Black-bezel LED headlamps and interior touches like Liquid Graphite laser-etched accents and Gridiron colors complete the look.

The Return of the Black Express – 

Also making a comeback is the fan-favorite Black Express Package. Priced at $995 (available on Quad and Crew 4×4 models only), it transforms the truck with a range of blackout upgrades:

• Sport Performance Hood

• Black Badging

• 20-Inch Black Aluminum Wheels

• Side Steps

• LED Fog Lamps

Upgraded Interior – 

• Black Cloth Bucket Seats

• 7-Inch TFT Gauge Cluster

• Floor Console

Ram saw success with the Black Express in 2013 and 2019, with the package accounting for significant sales. They’re confident it’s a recipe for success once again with the 2026 model.

Pricing Breakdown – 

All prices include the $2,095 destination charge:

• Quad Cab 2WD – $44,495

• Crew Cab 2WD – $47,245

• Quad Cab 4×4 – $48,345

• Crew Cab 4×4 – $51,095

Available exterior colors: Diamond Black, Bright White, Granite Crystal, Forged Blue, and Hydro Blue

Looking Back: A Nod to Ram History – 

The Express name carries heritage. Initially introduced in 1939, the Ram Express debuted as a no-nonsense workhorse with a 78-horsepower flathead I6 engine. Back then, it sold for just $670—a far cry from today’s trucks, but a reminder of Ram’s deep roots in practical utility.

“The sunset of our Ram 1500 Classic makes the Express a natural front-runner,” said Kuniskis. “We have 25 more product announcements planned within the next 18 months, ranging from mild to wild—with something for every truck buyer.”