When it comes to value-packed off-road pickups, the Ram 1500 Warlock continues to hit that sweet spot between capability, style, and affordability. I recently spent a week behind the wheel of the 2026 Ram 1500 Warlock equipped with the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter HURRICANE I6 standard-output (S/O) engine — and it proved once again why this trim remains one of the best packages in the Ram lineup.
The Warlock has long been known as the “Rebel for the working man.” It shares many of the same off-road running features — including Bilstein™ shocks, a factory one-inch lift, skid plates, and tow hooks — but omits some of the luxury extras to keep the price accessible. Think of it as a Rebel in Tradesman clothing: rugged, purposeful, and ready for anything.
Back And Better Than Ever –
For 2026, Ram made the Warlock lineup even more appealing by bringing back the tried-and-true 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with the eTorque mild-hybrid system and the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 with eTorque. Both engines return alongside the newer 3.0-liter HURRICANE I6 S/O. That means buyers now have three distinct powertrains to choose from — each with its own personality and strengths.
The Pentastar remains the affordable, reliable option for those who need a truck that works hard without breaking the bank. The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is the classic choice, delivering that unmistakable Mopar rumble and a proven track record. And the HURRICANE I6? That’s the new-age powerhouse — smooth, modern, and packed with torque.
My test truck was equipped with the HURRICANE S/O, producing 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft. of torque. Paired with the ZF-sourced 8HP75 8-speed automatic transmission, it’s one of the smoothest combinations in the half-ton truck segment. I’ve praised this gearbox before — I had it in my 2019 Ram 1500 Laramie Sport with the 5.7-liter HEMI — and it’s only gotten better. Gear changes are seamless, throttle response is immediate, and the overall driving experience feels refined and confident.
Design That Means Business –
The Warlock has always had a menacing look, and the 2026 model continues that tradition. Up front, the Black grille with bold R-A-M lettering makes a statement, while the 18-inch Black-painted aluminum wheels and available Warlock decals complete the rugged aesthetic.
LED headlights, dual exhaust with Black tips, and Black exterior badging add a premium touch without the premium price. The Warlock is offered exclusively as a Crew Cab with a 5-foot, 7-inch bed and 4×4 configuration — the most practical setup for most buyers.
Inside, it’s well-equipped for both work and play. You get an 8.4-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen, a 7-inch driver information display, adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane keep assist (LKA), blind-spot monitoring (BSM), Selec-Speed Control, and remote start—black cloth seats and in-floor rear storage complete the cabin. Optional features include heated seats, side steps, a spray-in bedliner, and the Trailer Tow Group, which is ideal for those planning to put their truck to work.
The HURRICANE Experience –
During my week with the HURRICANE-powered Warlock, I came away impressed by how refined this engine feels. There’s a touch of turbo lag just off idle, but once you’re past 1,200 rpm, the torque hits hard and keeps pulling. It’s deceptively smooth and incredibly responsive once on boost. The I6 configuration naturally balances out vibration, making it quieter and more composed than the HEMI V8 in everyday driving.
Acceleration is brisk, especially when merging or passing on the highway, and the power delivery feels effortless. Whether cruising or hauling, the HURRICANE keeps things calm and controlled. It’s a great fit for the Warlock’s off-road-ready personality — enough power to back up the looks, but not overkill.
However, it’s not perfect. There are a few things I didn’t love about the HURRICANE. For one, it lacks the traditional feel and sound that Ram fans have come to associate with the brand. The engine note is muted and refined — not necessarily bad, but it doesn’t stir the soul like a HEMI. The top of the engine is also filled with numerous plastic components, and the absence of a traditional dipstick is particularly frustrating. Having to rely on a digital oil level readout feels out of place in a truck that otherwise encourages you to get your hands dirty.
Fuel economy between the HURRICANE and the HEMI is close in real-world conditions. Ram claims the HURRICANE is more efficient, but in practice, the difference isn’t huge. Still, the HURRICANE’s combination of power and refinement is tough to beat.
Off-Road With The HEMI –
A few weeks before my HURRICANE test, I had the chance to drive the 5.7-liter HEMI V8-powered 2026 Ram 1500 Warlock at the Chelsea Proving Grounds (CPG) on its East Off-Road Course. The 1.7-mile track features logs, rocks, ditches, sand troughs, and dirt banks — a proper test for any 4×4.
The HEMI-powered Warlock proved just as capable as expected. With its new standard Mopar catback exhaust system, it sounds fantastic. The engine’s naturally aspirated power delivery is linear and predictable, making it perfect for crawling or tackling obstacles at low speeds.
The HEMI still delivers that traditional muscle-truck experience: big power, deep sound, and rock-solid reliability. Paired with the eTorque mild-hybrid system, it also benefits from smoother start-stop operation and a slight increase in torque off the line. It’s rated at 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, with an additional 130 lb.-ft. of launch torque from eTorque.
Picking Your Power –
If you’re trying to decide between the three engines, here’s a quick breakdown:
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3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with eTorque: 305 hp / 269 lb.-ft., max tow 6,410 lbs. Ideal for budget buyers or light-duty users.
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3.0-liter HURRICANE I6 S/O: 420 hp / 469 lb.-ft., max tow 11,610 lbs., payload up to 1,930 lbs. Smooth and strong, with modern turbocharged muscle.
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5.7-liter HEMI V8 with eTorque: 395 hp / 410 lb.-ft. (+130 lb.-ft. launch torque), max tow 11,340 lbs., payload up to 1,910 lbs. Classic sound and proven performance.
Personally, after spending time with both the HURRICANE and the HEMI, I’d still lean toward the HEMI. The HURRICANE is more modern, smoother, and slightly more powerful, but it feels a little too clinical. The HEMI, on the other hand, feels alive — it’s got personality, it’s proven, and the aftermarket support is endless. Plus, with the 2026 model year, every HEMI-equipped Warlock now includes a factory Mopar catback exhaust and a 33-gallon fuel tank standard, making it even more appealing.
The HEMI may be over two decades old, but there’s something about its old-school charm and raw sound that still makes it my pick of the bunch.
Built For Value –
One of the Warlock’s biggest selling points is how much truck you get for the money. The 2026 model starts at $46,875 before destination, and even with the upgraded HURRICANE or HEMI engines, it remains well below Rebel pricing. Ram also lowered option costs across the board — for instance, the HURRICANE upgrade now costs $1,695, down $1,000 from 2025.
Add the Bilstein shocks, skid plates, lift, and off-road protection that come standard, and you’ve got one of the most capable off-road trucks in its price bracket.
Final Thoughts –
After a week with the HURRICANE-powered Warlock and time spent off-road in the HEMI version, one thing is clear — the Warlock remains one of the best values in the Ram 1500 lineup. It delivers real off-road gear, unmistakable style, and the choice of three strong engines. Whether you prefer the smooth sophistication of the HURRICANE or the rumbling soul of the HEMI, you can’t go wrong.
It’s the perfect middle ground for those who want Rebel capability without the Rebel price tag. The 2026 Ram 1500 Warlock proves that you don’t have to spend big to get a tough, capable, and downright cool 4×4 pickup.
Stay tuned for a review on the new HEMI®-powered 2026 Ram 1500 Warlock later this week.
2026 Ram 1500 Warlock Image Gallery:
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