What's New for 2026?
Ram made waves in 2026 by bringing back the iconic 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine after a one-year absence. Responding directly to customer demand, Ram reintroduced this beloved powerplant complete with eTorque mild hybrid technology. The engine puts out 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, giving Alexandria truck buyers the authentic V8 driving experience they've been asking for. Look for the unique "Symbol of Protest Badge" mounted on the fender of every HEMI-equipped truck—a design element Ram created to honor the engine's comeback. Local drivers who appreciate the HEMI's signature exhaust note, time-tested dependability, and excellent resale potential have plenty to celebrate.
Another fresh addition to the lineup is the Express trim, which combines value pricing with eye-catching black styling elements. You'll find black 20-inch wheels, body-color bumpers, an aggressive sport hood, and the option to add a Black Express Package for an even bolder appearance. Alexandria buyers who want contemporary styling at a reasonable investment will find the Express delivers exactly what they're looking for. Ram also made headlines with warranty improvements—the new 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty represents a massive leap forward from the old five-year, 60,000-mile coverage. Local truck owners now enjoy remarkable long-term protection.
Technology upgrades abound in the 2026 model year. Dual wireless charging pads now accommodate both front-seat occupants, while a programmable LED walk-up animation adds personalized flair. Available hands-free driving assist handles approved highways with ease. The range-topping Tungsten trim boasts an incredible 23-speaker Klipsch audio system—an industry-leading speaker count in this segment. Two fresh paint options join the palette: Forged Blue and Hydro Blue, perfect for Minnesota buyers who want to make a statement. With deliveries underway at dealerships throughout the state, now's an ideal moment to discover everything the 2026 Ram 1500 brings to Alexandria area truck enthusiasts.
Performance That Works as Hard as You Do
Alexandria drivers count on trucks that handle diverse tasks, from weekday work to weekend recreation. The 2026 Ram 1500 answers that call with four distinct powertrains. Start with the reliable 3.6L Pentastar V6, add the recently-returned 5.7L HEMI V8, or step up to either version of the impressive 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six. The standard Hurricane configuration generates 420 horsepower and 469 pound-feet of torque, while the high-output Hurricane cranks out an astounding 540 horsepower and 521 pound-feet. Whether you're transporting materials to your lake property or pulling watercraft to Lake Carlos or Lake Mary through Minnesota winters, you'll find the right engine for your specific requirements.
Raw capability meets refined comfort in the Ram 1500's design philosophy. The eTorque mild hybrid system delivers instant torque assistance during acceleration—perfect for Interstate 94 merges or pulling away from traffic lights with cargo in the bed. Better fuel economy comes as a bonus, translating to extended range between fill-ups. Serious towers appreciate the available air suspension that automatically adjusts ride height and levels the truck when you connect a trailer. Handling stays stable and predictable on both highways and back roads. Maximum towing reaches 12,750 pounds when properly equipped, providing ample capacity for recreational trailers, campers, or heavy equipment haulers.
Minnesota's demanding climate requires a truck built for challenging conditions. The Ram 1500's available four-wheel drive with electronic locking rear differential provides exceptional grip on icy roads around the lakes area and unpaved paths leading to cabins and seasonal properties. Generous ground clearance and favorable approach angles keep you moving through deep snow and rough terrain. The truck handles up to 2,300 pounds of payload, easily accommodating construction materials, outdoor equipment, or supplies for your next project. Multiple drive modes optimize truck behavior for specific situations—choose settings tailored to daily Broadway commutes, heavy trailer work, or winter weather driving.
Safety Features That Protect What Matters Most
Modern safety technology transforms how you navigate Alexandria's roads and surrounding areas, particularly during brutal Minnesota winters. Standard equipment on every 2026 Ram 1500 includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, plus front and rear parking sensors. These systems work together to help you avoid collisions before they occur. The rearview camera simplifies parking at Viking Plaza or backing up at the marina, while standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert boost confidence during lane changes and parking lot maneuvers.
The optional 360-degree surround view camera system proves invaluable in confined spaces and during trailer hookup. This overhead perspective removes blind spots entirely, making downtown parking or Douglas County Fair navigation effortless. Adaptive cruise control tracks vehicles ahead on Highway 29, adjusting your speed automatically in traffic. Long drives toward the Twin Cities or Fargo become less tiring as the system maintains safe following distances. Lane departure warning paired with lane keep assist provides gentle steering corrections if you drift, especially helpful on straight rural highways where attention can wander.
Ram's safety philosophy extends beyond accident prevention to impact protection. The 2026 Ram 1500 features a high-strength steel frame construction with strategically placed crumple zones that redirect crash energy away from occupants. Ram's Security Alarm system guards your investment against theft. Alexandria families benefit from the rear seat reminder, which prompts you to check rear seats before exiting—ensuring children, pets, and valuables never get left behind accidentally. Available hands-free driving assist relies on sensors, cameras, and radar to manage highway speed and lane centering on approved roads, reducing fatigue during extended trips. These comprehensive safety measures deliver confidence whether you're handling errands in town or embarking on lake weekend getaways.
Convenience Features That Make Every Drive Better
Smart technology elevates every journey in the 2026 Ram 1500. The Uconnect infotainment system scales from an 8.4-inch touchscreen in base configurations to an expansive 14.4-inch display in premium trims. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration puts your smartphone's apps, music library, and navigation at your fingertips through the truck's interface. Stream podcasts during your Brainerd commute or pull up live traffic data for Twin Cities trips. New for 2026, class-exclusive dual wireless charging pads keep devices powered for both driver and front passenger without cable clutter. Additional USB ports throughout the cabin ensure everyone stays connected.
Practical storage solutions reflect real-world truck use. The optional RamBox Cargo Management System builds secure, weatherproof, illuminated bins directly into the bed rails, featuring a 115-volt AC outlet in the driver-side compartment. The enormous center console swallows laptops, documents, or coolers with ease. Weatherproof in-bed storage keeps fishing tackle, ratchet straps, or grocery bags secure and dry. The optional spray-in bedliner shields your bed surface from scratches while simplifying cleanup after hauling landscaping materials or moving gear. Control the multifunction tailgate remotely using your key fob or the overhead console button—it drops flat, swings sideways like a door, or converts to a workstation with the fold-down step.
Cabin comfort matters during hours behind the wheel. Available heated and ventilated front seats regulate temperature year-round—warming frozen muscles on January mornings and cooling you down during July heat waves. The heated steering wheel ranks as an essential feature that Alexandria residents genuinely value during winter months. Dual-zone automatic climate control gives driver and passenger independent temperature settings, eliminating thermostat disagreements. The optional panoramic sunroof bathes the interior in natural light and fresh air, transforming routine drives into more pleasant experiences. Top-tier Tungsten trim showcases 24-way power-adjustable massage seats and that remarkable 23-speaker Klipsch audio system for supreme luxury. Premium audio packages and active noise cancellation technology create a serene cabin environment that enhances every trip.
2026 Ram 1500 Trim Levels Comparison
Ram offers ten distinct 2026 Ram 1500 trim levels: Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, RHO, Limited, Limited Longhorn, and Tungsten. Each successive trim adds features, refinement, and capability. From budget-conscious work trucks to luxury-focused daily drivers, there's a configuration matching your specific needs and financial plan. Review the detailed comparison below to understand how features progress across the complete trim lineup.
| Feature | Tradesman | Express | Warlock | Big Horn | Laramie | Rebel | RHO | Limited | Limited Longhorn | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen Size | 8.4" | 8.4" | 8.4" | 12.0" | 14.5" | 12.0" | 12.0" | 14.5" | 14.5" | 14.5" |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● |
| Heated Front Seats | — | — | — | — | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● |
| Ventilated Front Seats | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ● | ● | ● |
| Leather Seating | — | — | — | — | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | Premium |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● |
| 360-Degree Camera | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ● | ● | ● |
| Remote Start | — | — | — | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● |
| Wireless Charging | — | — | — | — | ● | ● | ● | Dual Pads | Dual Pads | Dual Pads |
| Panoramic Sunroof | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ● | ● | ● |
| Premium Audio System | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Harman Kardon | Harman Kardon | Klipsch 23-spk |
| Air Suspension | — | — | — | — | — | ● | Bilstein | ● | ● | ● |
| Off-Road Package | — | — | ● | — | — | Enhanced | Performance | — | — | — |
| Multifunction Tailgate | — | — | — | — | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● | ● |
Your ideal trim depends entirely on how you plan to use your truck. Tradesman and Express models deliver outstanding value for buyers prioritizing work capability over luxury amenities. Big Horn and Warlock configurations add comfort and visual appeal, with Warlock bringing off-road hardware for outdoor adventures. Laramie represents an excellent middle ground—premium appointments and the potent Hurricane engine create a truck that rivals luxury sedans in refinement. Rebel and RHO target adventure enthusiasts demanding off-pavement prowess, featuring specialized suspension tuning and rugged aesthetics. Limited, Limited Longhorn, and Tungsten trims showcase Ram's luxury potential with comprehensive feature sets and premium materials throughout.
Visit Veero CDJR in Morris where our knowledgeable team helps you explore every trim level firsthand to identify your perfect match. We recognize Alexandria area buyers have distinct priorities—whether maximum towing for recreational trailers, comprehensive safety systems for family transportation, or off-road capabilities for hunting expeditions and lake property access. Experience different trim levels through test drives and determine which 2026 Ram 1500 aligns with your requirements. Our finance professionals clearly explain monthly payment variations across trim levels, helping you select a truck that satisfies both lifestyle demands and budget constraints. The comprehensive 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty backing your purchase provides exceptional long-term value and confidence in your Ram 1500 investment.