Ram is entering the 2026 model year with major momentum, securing two of the three finalist positions for the 2026 North American Truck of the Year (NACTOY). For the first time in the award’s 32-year history, Ram has doubled up in the finals—an achievement that highlights just how competitive and well-rounded the brand’s lineup has become.
This year, the 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI® V8 eTorque and the 2026 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty rose to the top after being evaluated by a jury of 50 respected automotive journalists from across the United States and Canada. The NACTOY award is considered one of the most influential honors in the auto industry, and earning two finalist positions is a huge validation of Ram’s long-term strategy: offering capability, value, and freedom of choice across the entire lineup.
Historic First For Ram –
While Ram has taken home NACTOY titles before, 2025 marks the first time the brand has captured two finalist slots at once. That’s a testament to the breadth of Ram’s current truck lineup—from affordable work-ready trims to premium luxury models and high-tech powertrains.
Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis summed it up perfectly, saying, “We’re proud to see Ram recognized by this opinion-leading group of industry professionals. NACTOY recognizing both the Ram 1500 HEMI and Heavy Duty shows that the ‘last tenth’ culture that drives the Ram brand is paying off. We’re here to give customers freedom of choice and the trucks they want – something we’re already seeing on showroom floors.”
Kuniskis’ “last tenth” reference is a long-standing mantra inside the brand—constantly refining every small detail to make trucks that not only meet expectations, but exceed them in areas customers actually care about.
Ram 1500 HEMI® V8 eTorque: A Fan Favorite –
Despite new engine technologies rolling in, Ram’s decision to continue offering the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 with eTorque has been a huge win. The HEMI-equipped 2026 Ram 1500 is one of the brand’s fastest-moving half-tons on dealer lots. Paired with available powertrains like the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and the twin-turbo 3.0-liter HURRICANE I6, Ram customers now have more choices than ever for towing, performance, or daily driving.
Ram 2500 Heavy Duty: Strength, Comfort, And Capability –
On the Heavy Duty side, the 2026 Ram 2500 continues its reputation as one of the most capable and comfortable HD trucks on the market. With an available 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel delivering an incredible 1,075 lb-ft of torque, Ram remains a benchmark in real-world towing and hauling.
Inside, the Ram HD lineup continues to lead the class in comfort, materials, and technology. Whether buyers choose the rugged Power Wagon, the iconic Laramie, or the ultra-premium Tungsten, there’s a configuration for just about every need.
Looking Toward The Future –
Ram is preparing to expand its lineup even further with the introduction of the 2026 Ram 1500 REV, a range-extended electric pickup designed to give buyers yet another option—this time focused on efficiency and long-range capability.
And with every 2026 Ram backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the brand is reinforcing durability and long-term value as core pillars.
