The HEMI engine has a legendary reputation for delivering impressive performance, power, and durability – and, most iconically, an instantly recognizable exhaust rumble. That rumble comes from its innovative design and engineering, which also help achieve significant specs and smoothness.
Below, the team at Frisco Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram breaks down the details of the famous HEMI engine, along with its history across the Ram 1500 trucks.
The term "HEMI" comes from the engine's unique hemispherical combustion chamber design, which allows for enhanced airflow and helps deliver more power. It became a favorite among drivers because of its strong acceleration and towing ability, which come from the more powerful fuel-burning capabilities of said hemispherical combustion chambers.
The most current Ram 1500 HEMI engine is the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with eTorque. Check out the following specs for a 2024 Ram 1500 equipped with this powertrain:
The Ram 1500 has offered the HEMI V-8 engine as an option for decades; however, the redesigned 2025 Ram 1500 and its Hurricane engine see this end. Here's a look at the most recent model years to carry the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine as an option:
The 5.7 HEMI V-8 engine is available across multiple trim levels, though configuration details can cause this to vary.
Additionally, the Ram 1500 TRX comes with a 6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V-8 engine that goes wild with 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, and the heavy-duty Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 both include a 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine option that provides 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque.
While the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine was discontinued in 2024, shopping for a pre-owned Ram 1500 gives you plenty of options to find the engine and the configuration you want.
Whether you're hauling heavy loads or seeking a reliable partner for everyday driving, the Ram 1500 HEMI engine has provided impressive specs across the years for its class, from gas mileage to towing capabilities. Drive into the standout specs over the years:
| 5.7L HEMI Engine Specs (2017 - 2024) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Horsepower | Torque | Towing | EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 2024 | 395 | 410 lb-ft | 12,750 lbs2 | 18 / 231 | 8-Speed Automatic | 2WD / 4WD Available |
| 2023 | 395 | 410 lb-ft | 12,750 lbs2 | 18 / 231 | 8-Speed Automatic | 2WD / 4WD Available |
| 2022 | 395 | 410 lb-ft | 12,750 lbs2 | 18 / 231 | 8-Speed Automatic | 2WD / 4WD Available |
| 2021 | 395 | 410 lb-ft | 12,750 lbs2 | 17 / 231 | 8-Speed Automatic | 2WD / 4WD Available |
| 2020 | 395 | 410 lb-ft | 12,750 lbs2 | 17 / 231 | 8-Speed Automatic | 2WD / 4WD Available |
| 2019 | 395 | 410 lb-ft | 12,750 lbs2 | 17 / 231 | 8-Speed Automatic | 2WD / 4WD Available |
| 2018 | 395 | 410 lb-ft | 10,640 lbs2 | 15 / 221 | 8-Speed Automatic | 2WD / 4WD Available |
| 2017 | 395 | 410 lb-ft | 10,640 lbs2 | 15 / 221 | 8-Speed Automatic | 2WD / 4WD Available |
From 2017 to 2024, the Ram 1500 equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI engine has consistently delivered impressive performance, boasting 395 horsepower. In addition, the Ram 1500 HEMI torque comes out to 410 pound-feet. The Ram 1500 trims we discussed earlier are available with this powerful engine, offering flexibility of form.
The Ram 1500 HEMI horsepower and torque output can also combine with something special for the most recent model years: eTorque. It's a mild-hybrid drive system that enhances efficiency without impeding on classic V-8 characteristics, helping achieve the mileage ratings we'll discuss below.
The Ram 1500 HEMI gas mileage, when paired with 2WD and an eight-speed automatic transmission, is an EPA-estimated 18/23 MPG (City/Highway).1 This rating can be achieved on models from 2022 to 2024, depending on the trim level and configuration. The most recent 2024 Ram 1500 HEMI configurations that can hit this MPG rating are:
The Ram 1500 equipped with the 5.7 HEMI engine reaches a maximum towing capability of 12,7502 from model years 2019 to 2024. This can be achieved with the Lone Star or Tradesman Quad Cab 2WD models from 2019 to 2024 with a 6-foot-4-inch bed and equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine featuring eTorque.
This gives you the ability to tow a number of items, including large flatbed trailers, car trailers, boats, horse trailers, and a number of recreational vehicles like ATVs and motorcycles.
The Ram 1500, paired with the 5.7 HEMI engine, also has a max payload of 1,850 pounds,3 perfect for hauling gear, equipment, or materials to the job site.
If you're looking for performance and durability, the HEMI engine is designed to exceed expectations across the board. Check out our lineup of new Ram 1500 trucks equipped with this exceptional powertrain and experience the power and efficiency it has to offer.
Be sure to explore current Ram 1500 specials and financing options to find the best path forward to owning a new or pre-owned HEMI-powered pickup truck. For more questions about the HEMI engine, don't hesitate to reach out to our team. Our goal is for you to drive away in a truck that has all the capabilities you need for the worksite or your next adventure.
Made popular by the Chrysler brand, the 5.7-liter HEMI engine is a powerful and iconic option offered in models like the Ram 1500, the Dodge Charger and Challenger, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the Chrysler 300. This high-performance engine has been offered in many models under the CDJR umbrella and is a favorite among enthusiasts who are looking for power and versatility in their vehicles.
The best year for the Ram 1500 5.7-liter HEMI engine is going to the 2024 lineup. The 2024 RAM 1500 equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI powertrain with eTorque has a max towing capability of 12,750 pounds,2 up to an EPA-estimated 18/23 MPG (City/Highway),1 and produces 410 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque.
| Ram 1500 Bug Horn/Lone Star Trim | Ram 1500 Towing Capacity | Ram 1500 Hurricane Engine Specs |
| Hurricane Engine vs. Hemi V8 | Ram 1500 Interior | 2024 vs. 2025 Ram 1500 |
| 2025 Ram 1500 Overview |
1EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.
2When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
3When properly equipped. Max payload ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload weights. Contact dealer for details.
