The automotive world is buzzing with excitement as sources confirm the RAM 1500 TRX will make its triumphant return in early 2026, bringing back the beloved supercharged V8 power that made it a legend among performance trucks. After being discontinued following the 2024 model year, this apex predator of pickup trucks is set to reclaim its throne in the high-performance truck segment.
The Return of a Legend
Production of the 2026 RAM 1500 TRX is expected to begin in late January 2026, marking the first vehicle launch under Stellantis’ newly relaunched Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division. This isn’t just another truck comeback – it’s a statement that American muscle and performance still matter in today’s automotive landscape.
The original TRX was a game-changer when it first arrived, producing 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque from its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine. It could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and complete the quarter-mile in 12.3 seconds at 110 mph, making it one of the quickest pickup trucks ever tested.
More Power Than Ever Before
The new TRX won’t just match its predecessor – it’s expected to surpass it significantly. Reports suggest the 2026 model could feature the 797-horsepower Hellcat Redeye engine, representing a substantial 95-horsepower increase over the previous generation. This would give the TRX a clear advantage over its main competitor, the Ford F-150 Raptor R, which produces 720 horsepower.
Why the TRX Disappeared and Came Back
The TRX’s temporary disappearance wasn’t due to lack of popularity. When RAM launched the refreshed 2025 lineup, they dropped the Hemi V8 entirely and replaced the TRX with the new RHO off-road truck using a 540-hp twin-turbo inline-six engine. This decision was largely attributed to former Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares’s push toward electrification and stricter emissions regulations.
However, after Tavares’s departure in December 2024 and the appointment of new leadership, including the return of Tim Kuniskis as head of North American brands, the company quickly reversed course. The market demand for V8-powered trucks remained strong, and customer response to the HEMI’s return has been overwhelming, with 10,000 orders placed within the first 24 hours of availability for the regular RAM 1500.
What Makes the TRX Special
The TRX was never just about raw power – it was engineered as a comprehensive high-performance off-road machine. Despite its hefty curb weight and huge footprint, the Hellcat-powered Ram was surprisingly refined and easy to handle on paved roads, while also featuring a reinforced steel frame and beefed-up suspension built to bend and bound with more than 13 inches of travel.
2026 Model Expectations and Features
The returning TRX will incorporate all the improvements introduced with the 2025 RAM 1500 refresh. The 2026 TRX will carry forward the same styling and technology updates introduced with the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO, including enhanced infotainment systems, updated exterior styling, and improved interior materials.
Competition and Market Position
The RHO was built to go toe-to-toe with the base Raptor, while the TRX will once again square off against the more extreme Raptor R. This strategic positioning allows RAM to compete across the entire high-performance truck spectrum, from serious off-road capability to ultimate power and performance.
Technical Specifications Comparison
| Specification | 2024 TRX (Previous) | 2026 TRX (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6.2L Supercharged V8 | 6.2L Supercharged V8 (Redeye) |
| Horsepower | 702 hp | 797 hp (estimated) |
| Torque | 650 lb-ft | 750+ lb-ft (estimated) |
| 0-60 mph | 3.7 seconds | Under 3.5 seconds (projected) |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 120+ mph (projected) |
| Ground Clearance | 11.8 inches | 11.8+ inches |
| Suspension Travel | 13+ inches | 13+ inches |
Timeline and Availability
Production is expected to start in late 2025, with models arriving at dealerships across America in early 2026. The timing coincides with RAM’s broader strategy to reintroduce HEMI engines across their lineup, with the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 production restarting in July 2025.
What This Means for Truck Enthusiasts
The TRX’s return represents more than just another truck option – it’s a victory for enthusiasts who value pure, unfiltered performance. In an era where many manufacturers are moving toward electrification and smaller engines, the TRX’s supercharged V8 stands as a testament to American automotive engineering and the enduring appeal of raw power.
For buyers considering the TRX, expect premium pricing reflecting its performance capabilities. The previous generation started around $70,000, and the new model will likely command even higher prices given its increased power and updated technology.
The 2026 RAM 1500 TRX promises to deliver everything that made the original special – brutal acceleration, impressive off-road capability, and that unmistakable supercharged V8 sound that turns heads wherever it goes. For performance truck enthusiasts, the wait is almost over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the 2026 RAM 1500 TRX be available?
A: Production begins in late January 2026, with trucks expected in dealerships by early 2026.
Q: How much more powerful will the new TRX be?
A: Reports suggest up to 797 horsepower, representing a 95-horsepower increase over the previous 702-hp model.
Q: Will the new TRX be more expensive?
A: While pricing hasn’t been announced, expect higher prices than the previous generation due to increased power and updated technology.
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