The HEMI V8 in the Ram 1500 is about to get blown away.
New reports from the USA have given even more credence to rumours the twin-turbocharged Hurricane V6 will join the Ram 1500 line-up, although it also looks like the existing HEMI V8 will live on as well.
A video from Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk on YouTube, picked up by CarBuzz, points to a leaked equipment listing for the facelifted 1500 expected to debut next year.
The document includes a VIN for the upcoming car, and points to the option of a 3.0L I6 Hurricane HO Twin Turbo.
The Standard Output Hurricane produces over 298kW of power and 610Nm of torque, while the High Output (or HO) produces over 373kW of power and 644Nm of torque.
Given it sits on the “options” list in the leaked document, the Hurricane isn’t likely to be the only engine offered in the upcoming Ram 1500 update. Longer term though, it could render the current V8 redundant – given that’s its rumoured role elsewhere in the Stellantis line-up.
All engines will reportedly continue to use a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission.
The updated Ram 1500 has already been seen testing, with what appear to be changes to the grille, front bumper and tail lights, among other details.
Inside, Mopar Insiders reports Ram’s design team have been focused on premium textures, colours and materials, with a new luxurious Tungsten model set to offer a bevvy of luxury features.
The last boss of Ram has told media there is a role for the V8 in the brand’s range… provided enough customers demand it.
Once a staple, the V8 is gradually losing its stranglehold on the pickup market in the USA.
The latest Ford F-150 offers a range of EcoBoost and hybrid V6 engines as more expensive alternatives to the more basic V8, and a “high output” turbocharged four-cylinder is standard across much of the Chevrolet Silverado range.
Currently, the Ram 1500 is available with a 5.7-litre naturally-aspirated (hybrid) or 6.2-litre supercharged V8 engines in Australia. In the USA, it’s also offered with a naturally-aspirated V6 engine backed by an e-torque mild-hybrid system.
MORE: Everything Ram 1500
