After 50 years, the Ford F-150 dominates the half-ton truck market, but one competitor, the Ram 1500, pushes back hard, thanks to the return of the Hemi V8 and an extended powertrain warranty. Here's what to know before choosing between these two powerhouses.
Key Takeaways
- Ford tweaks the F-150's enhancements in 2026; meanwhile, the Ram 1500 gets more changes.
- The F-150 has a mechanical advantage over the Ram 1500, with a powertrain available for just about every type of owner.
- The F-150 is a greater towing machine than the Ram 1500.
What Are the Changes for the F-150 vs. Ram 1500 in 2026?
Ford's updates to the F-150 are minor. It removed Avalanche and Darkened Bronze from the color palette and added Space White Metallic and Marsh Grey in their place. Ford also moved the F-150's entry keypad on higher trims to a dealer-installed option and updated its BlueCruise system for smoother operation.
Ram makes major changes to the 1500 in comparison. Stellantis brings back the 5.7-liter V8, making it available on Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn/Lone Star, and Laramie trims for $1,200 (it's a free option on Limited and Longhorn trims, and its availability on the Rebel comes later in the year)
The Express trim joins the lineup as a lower-cost model. It features blacked-out headlamp bezels, dark-gray interior trim, and RWD or 4WD in the Quad Cab or Crew Cab. A Black Express appearance package adds a Sport hood, black exterior badging, 20-inch wheels, and cloth bucket seats. There's also a new BackCountry trim that adds a one-inch suspension lift, skidplates, and off-road styling.
The 1500's powertrain warranty now extends to 10 years or 100,000 miles across the board, and Ram also offers America250 special editions on Big Horn, Laramie, and Rebel trims. All the Americana is there in its hood decals and commemorative badging. You also have your choice of red, white, or blue.
Engine Options for the F-150 and Ram 1500
Ford has always offered one of the widest engine lineups in its segment. No matter the powertrain, it comes paired with a 10-speed automatic, and your choice of rear- or four-wheel drive.
- 2.7L Twin-Turbo V6: 325 hp / 400 lb-ft
- 5.0L V8: 400 hp / 410 lb-ft
- 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6: 400 hp / 500 lb-ft
- Raptor High-Output 3.5L V6: 450 hp / 510 lb-ft
- 3.5L Hybrid V6: 430 hp / 570 lb-ft
- Raptor R 5.2L Supercharged V8: 700 hp / 640 lb-ft
The Ram 1500 offers three engine options--a V6, a returning V8, and a Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system supports the standard V6, generating 305 horsepower. The returning 5.7-liter Hemi V8 also relies on a mild-hybrid setup, delivering 395 horsepower. Depending on the configuration and trim, the Hurricane inline-six provides two different power levels, generating either 420 or 540 ponies. All engine options come with an eight-speed automatic and rear- or four-wheel drive.
Powertrain Features
| 2026 Ford F-150 |
2026 Ram 1500 |
| Turbocharged 2.7L EcoBoost V65.0L naturally aspirated V83.5L twin-turbo V6 (Raptor-specific tuning) 3.5L PowerBoost full hybrid V65.2L supercharged V8 (Raptor R only) |
V-6V-8Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six |
| 10-speed automatic |
8-speed automatic |
| RWD or FWD |
RWD or 4WD |
What Is the Towing Capacity in the F-150 vs. the Ram 1500?
The F-150 leads in this category with a maximum towing capacity of 13,500 pounds and a payload rating of 2,455 pounds. In comparison, the Ram 1500 reaches its limits at 11,610 pounds of towing capacity and a maximum payload of 2,360 pounds. Stepping up to the Ramcharger plug-in hybrid increases pulling capacity to a max of 14,000 pounds.
Why the 2026 Ford F-150 Still Leads the Half-Ton Truck Segment
The F-150 appeals to a broader audience by providing more powertrain options and superior towing capabilities. It remains the clear leader on and off the job site. Ready to see what it can do? Get in touch with Banner Ford of Monroe today!