Spartanburg Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
The Ram 1500 redesign has been turning heads ever since the mid-cycle refresh was introduced last year. And, as it turns out, the brand isn't done revamping this vehicle. The 2026 lineup arrives with all of the best upgrades from last year, plus the return of the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, and a new entry-level trim option. Let's learn more about the Ram 1500 redesign as well as previous models and generations. Want to see it in person? Stop by Spartanburg CDJR for an in-person tour and test drive today.
The Ram 1500 truck lineup was updated for the 2025 model year in what is considered a "mid-generation refresh." This upgrade introduced a lot of new perks for the 2025 lineup, and 2026 brings even more features.
First, let's cover what was new for the 2025 model year. The new Ram 1500 redesign brought new features and a new trim level, as well as two engine options: 3.0-liter Hurricane and a high-output 3.0-liter Hurricane engine. The touchscreen was upgraded to a standard 12-inches with an available 14.5-inch option, and the lineup introduced an available 10.5-inch passenger touchscreen display.
The 2025 Ram 1500 redesign update brought drivers the luxury-focused Tungsten model. This trim sits at the top of the lineup and comes with a 24-way power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats with memory, ventilation, heating, and massaging features, a Klipsch® audio system, premium leather appointments, and real wood and carbon fiber accents. This trim returns for the 2026 model year, and it's available in 10 colors.
The 2026 Ram 1500 arrives carrying the upgrades from the 2025 model year and introducing a few of its own. For starters, there's a new Ram 1500 Express trim variant. This new model boasts a more sleek appearance, as it has private blacked-out style appointments.
Some of the best news of the 2026 Ram 1500 redesign is the reintroduction of the beloved 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine. Customers lamented the discontinuation of this engine option for the 2025 model year, and the Ram brand listened. Bringing it back for the 2026 lineup, this engine has the same output as it did before: up to 395 horsepower, 410 pound-feet of torque, and it can tow up to 11,320 pounds when properly equipped. Drivers can also opt for the standard 3.6-liter V-6 or the new 3.0-liter Hurricane I-6 or High-Output Hurricane engines.
As we consider the Ram 1500 body styles by year, we see significant evolution over the vehicle's five generations. There is no "best" model year; there's simply the one you prefer. Our Ram generations chart below outlines a few changes this truck has undergone over the years. The initial Ram 1500 has a boxier look than the modern vehicle; just about everyone recognizes these trucks as staples of the 1980s. These models did not have the "1500" moniker. Instead, they'd display as "Dodge Ram D150" or "Dodge Ram W150" ("W" for two-wheel drive or "D" for four-wheel drive).
The second generation, which debuted in 1994, more closely resembles the vehicle we know today. With a larger front grille and other bold styling choices, the second-generation Ram 1500 stood out on the road. These models adopted the 1500 name for the first time. 2002-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 trucks, which were the third generation, boast a more rounded body, moving away from the sharp edges that characterize older vehicles.
Fourth-generation pickups had some of the first infotainment features found in this truck, including optional navigation systems. These models also have access to an upgraded version of the famous HEMI V-8 engine. You may find a few well-cared-for pickups from this generation in our previous model year Ram 1500 inventory.
The fifth Ram 1500 generation began in 2019 and runs to this day. These trucks feature cutting-edge technologies, ranging from advanced safety features to diverse trims that boast additional capabilities. On this point, it's worth noting that the Ram 1500 TRX debuted in 2021; this performance-oriented model is ideal for folks who want to explore difficult terrain.
| Years | Body Style | |
|---|---|---|
| First Generation | 1981-1993 | The first-generation Dodge Ram 150 (pre-1500) was boxy and available in two- and four-door styles |
| Second Generation | 1994-2001 | The second-generation model was also available in two- and four-door configurations and added a larger grille and bold styling changes |
| Third Generation | 2002-2008 | The third generation Ram 1500 truck had more rounded styling than the first two and could be had with two- or four-door cabs, including the Mega Cab for the first time |
| Fourth Generation | 2009-2018 | The fourth-generation Ram 1500 is very familiar to many drivers, boasting a modern body style and a bold front grille. It is also available with four- and two-door body styles |
| Fifth Generation | 2019-Present | The modern Ram 1500 trucks are striking and full of modern features; these models are available only with four-door body styles |
In 2009, Ram was spun off from Dodge to become its own company. This allowed the Ram design team to focus exclusively on producing powerful trucks with the conveniences and performance chops their drivers desire.
This is not to say that there is anything wrong with previous Ram 1500 models that include the Dodge brand name. Many of these pickups are still on the road today, towing thousands of pounds when properly equipped with ease to the worksite or weekend adventures. We know these models are appealing, so please contact us if you are interested in one of these older vehicles. We'll do our utmost to help you find the perfect truck for your needs and preferences.
Our team is proud to offer the trucks in our new Ram 1500 inventory to drivers in our community. As discussed above, the most recent Ram 1500 models are robust and well-equipped with desirable features. Whether you're interested in an entry-level trim designed to rule the construction site or a top-tier model boasting incredible luxury features, we can help you apply for financing.
When you're ready for a fresh truck, it's a good idea to check out our Ram 1500 specials. You can lease or purchase a brand-new pickup from our dealership more easily if you take us up on the incentives we have available. These change over time, so please feel free to reach out to us to discuss our current offers.
Thank you for reading about the new Ram 1500 redesign. The team at our dealership is excited to help you pick out a model that suits your needs and tastes. While the Ram 1500 has changed significantly throughout the years, it has always been a powerful and durable vehicle that can serve you well as a daily driver or a job site hero. The 2026 model year showcases the latest innovations in comfort, towing, and technology, and we can't wait to share it with you! Visit us today to explore a 2020 Ram 1500 or any of the other models in our inventory.
The 2026 Ram 1500 truck has not been redesigned in the traditional sense of changing its appearance or features, but it does bring in a couple of exciting new changes. First, the powerful 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine returns as an available option for the lineup. And second,, a new trim level, Ram 1500 Express, joins as the third trim option with blacked-out styling and essential features.
The Ram 1500 truck had a mid-cycle refresh for the 2025 model year that introduced several changes. From design changes to new technologies, new color options, and an all-new trim level, this mid-generation redesign made it feel like a totally new truck. The new 2026 model year carries on the compelling updates and adds a few of its own; come see it at Spartanburg CDJR today!
There are five generations of the Ram 1500 light-duty pickup. The vehicle was initially introduced in the early 1980s, with the second generation starting in the mid-90s. The third generation Ram 1500 debuted in the early 2000s, and the fourth at the end of the same decade. The fifth generation began with the 2019 model of the Ram 1500.
