Great news for performance truck fans – the legendary RAM 1500 TRX is officially coming back. After being discontinued in November 2023, this supercharged beast will roar back to life in early 2026, and it’s bringing some serious upgrades with it.
What Happened to the Original TRX?
The original TRX bid farewell in 2023 when Stell antis made the tough decision to phase out V8 engines across their lineup. The truck went out with a bang through the “Final Edition” model, priced at $117,625 and packing 702 horsepower from its supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V8.
During this gap, RAM introduced the 1500 RHO as a replacement. While the RHO delivers impressive performance with its 540-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six, truck enthusiasts knew something was missing – that unmistakable supercharged V8 growl.
The Big Return: January 2026
According to industry insiders, production of the new TRX will kick off in January 2026 at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Michigan. This timing makes the TRX the first vehicle to launch under the newly revived SRT performance division.
The return became possible after a major shift in company leadership. With Tim Kuniskis back in charge of American brands and former CEO Carlos Tavares out of the picture, Stellantis has embraced V8 engines once again.
Performance Specs and Power Upgrades
Here’s where things get exciting. The new TRX won’t just match its predecessor – it’s expected to surpass it. While the original delivered 702 horsepower, sources suggest the 2026 model could push beyond 720 horsepower, potentially reaching 797 horsepower if it uses the Hellcat Redeye configuration.
This power boost is crucial because the TRX needs to reclaim its throne from the Ford F-150 Raptor R, which currently leads with 720 horsepower from its supercharged 5.2-liter V8.
TRX vs Competition Comparison
| Specification | 2026 RAM 1500 TRX |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6.2L Supercharged V8 Hellcat |
| Expected Horsepower | 720+ hp (potentially 797 hp) |
| Torque | 650+ lb-ft |
| Main Competitor | Ford F-150 Raptor R (720 hp) |
| Production Start | January 2026 |
| Body Style | Crew Cab, Short Box |
| Drivetrain | 4WD with 8-speed automatic |
| Starting Price | TBD (likely $120,000+) |
What Makes the TRX Special
The TRX isn’t just about raw power – it’s engineered for serious off-road performance. The truck features a long-travel suspension system that can handle brutal off-road conditions while maintaining composure on regular roads.
Key Features Expected:
- Advanced Suspension: High-speed off-road tuned setup with massive travel
- 35-inch Tires: Aggressive rubber for maximum traction
- Reinforced Frame: Built to handle the V8’s power and off-road punishment
- Premium Interior: Luxury touches befitting a six-figure truck
Market Position and Pricing
The TRX will sit above the current RHO in RAM’s lineup, creating a clear performance hierarchy. While the RHO battles the standard Ford Raptor, the TRX will go head-to-head with the Raptor R in the high-performance truck segment.
Expect pricing to start well above $120,000, making it a premium offering for serious enthusiasts who want the ultimate combination of luxury and performance.
The Bigger Picture: SRT’s Revival
This TRX comeback represents more than just one truck returning. It signals Stellantis’ renewed commitment to performance vehicles under the SRT brand, which now spans all North American brands including RAM, Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler.
The company has announced 25 new products coming over 18 months, with the TRX being just the beginning of this performance renaissance.
Why This Matters for Truck Buyers
For anyone who felt disappointed by the trend toward smaller engines and electrification, the TRX’s return sends a clear message: there’s still a place for thunderous V8 power in the truck world.
The timing couldn’t be better, as Ford has shown strong success with the Raptor R, proving demand exists for high-performance, premium trucks that don’t compromise on traditional American muscle.
While we wait for official confirmation from RAM, all signs point to an exciting 2026 for performance truck enthusiasts. The TRX’s return, combined with the revival of the 5.7-liter HEMI in other RAM models, shows that reports of the V8’s death were greatly exaggerated.
The truck industry is about to get a lot more interesting, and for those who missed the original TRX, this second chance might be even better than the first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the 2026 RAM TRX be available for purchase?
A: Production is expected to begin in January 2026, with trucks likely hitting dealerships in spring 2026.
Q: Will the new TRX be more powerful than the original?
A: Yes, sources indicate it will exceed the original’s 702 horsepower, potentially reaching 720-797 hp.
Q: How much will the 2026 TRX cost?
A: While official pricing isn’t announced, expect it to start above $120,000 based on the original’s pricing and inflation.
