Choosing a truck for towing is about more than finding the biggest number on a spec sheet. The engine, drivetrain, cab, bed and axle configuration can all affect what a truck is equipped to handle.
For Peoria and Phoenix area drivers comparing full size pickups, the 2026 Ram 1500 offers multiple powertrain choices and a maximum available towing capacity of 11,610 pounds when properly equipped.
Whether you're planning to tow a boat, camper, utility trailer or recreational equipment, understanding the different 2026 Ram 1500 configurations can help you choose the right truck.
How Much Can the 2026 Ram 1500 Tow?
The maximum available towing capacity for the 2026 Ram 1500 is 11,610 pounds when properly equipped with the 3.0L Hurricane engine.
But that doesn't mean every Ram 1500 has the same towing rating.
Ram's official towing information shows that capacity varies considerably by powertrain and vehicle configuration.
2026 Ram 1500 Towing Capacity by Engine
3.0L Hurricane Twin Turbo I6
- 420 horsepower
- 469 lb ft of torque
- Maximum towing capacity: 11,610 pounds
- Maximum payload: 1,930 pounds [ramtrucks.com]
5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque
- 395 horsepower
- 410 lb ft of torque
- Maximum towing capacity: 11,320 pounds
- Maximum payload: 1,650 pounds
High Output 3.0L Hurricane
- 540 horsepower
- 521 lb ft of torque
- Maximum towing capacity: 10,000 pounds
- Maximum payload: 1,490 pounds
3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque
- 305 horsepower
- 269 lb ft of torque
- Maximum towing capacity: 8,130 pounds
- Maximum payload: 2,360 pounds
The HEMI V8 Is Back for 2026
One of the bigger changes shoppers will notice for 2026 is the return of the 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque on select Ram 1500 models.
For truck buyers who have been waiting for a V8 option, the HEMI provides 395 horsepower and 410 lb ft of torque along with a maximum towing capacity of 11,320 pounds when properly configured.
That gives buyers another option alongside the Pentastar V6 and Hurricane engines when deciding how much performance and towing capability they need.
Why Your Ram 1500 Configuration Matters
Looking only at the maximum towing number doesn't tell the whole story.
Ram's 2026 towing charts show different ratings based on factors including the engine, 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrain, cab configuration and axle ratio. For example, the 3.0L Hurricane reaches the 11,610 pound maximum rating in a specific Quad Cab 4x2 configuration with a 3.92 axle ratio.
That's why it is important to compare the actual configuration of the truck you're considering instead of assuming every Ram 1500 with the same engine has identical towing capability.
Towing Around Arizona
For Peoria drivers, towing needs can look very different from one owner to another.
You might need your Ram 1500 for a utility trailer during the week and recreational equipment on the weekend. Others may be shopping specifically with a camper or boat in mind.
Before choosing a truck, consider what you expect to tow most often and how much that loaded trailer will weigh. Then match those needs to the engine and configuration rather than simply shopping for the highest available capacity.
Find Your 2026 Ram 1500 in Peoria, AZ
With several available powertrains and configurations, there's no single 2026 Ram 1500 setup that's right for everyone.
Drivers throughout Peoria, Glendale, Surprise, Phoenix and the surrounding West Valley can browse the 2026 Ram 1500 inventory at Larry H. Miller Dodge Ram Peoria and compare available trucks.
If towing is your priority, make sure you check the specific towing rating for the truck and configuration you're considering.
2026 Ram 1500 Towing FAQ
What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2026 Ram 1500?
The 2026 Ram 1500 can tow up to 11,610 pounds when properly equipped. The maximum rating is available with the 3.0L Hurricane engine in the appropriate configuration.
Which 2026 Ram 1500 engine can tow the most?
The 3.0L Hurricane engine offers the highest published maximum towing capacity at 11,610 pounds.
How much can the 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI V8 tow?
The returning 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque offers a maximum towing capacity of 11,320 pounds when properly equipped.
How much can the 3.6L Pentastar V6 Ram 1500 tow?
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque offers a maximum towing capacity of 8,130 pounds and maximum payload capacity of 2,360 pounds.
Does 4x4 change the Ram 1500 towing capacity?
It can. Ram's towing charts list different maximum trailer ratings depending on drivetrain, axle ratio, cab and other configuration choices. Buyers should check the rating of the specific truck they are considering.
Is the HEMI V8 available on the 2026 Ram 1500?
Yes. Ram states that the 5.7L HEMI V8 is available on select 2026 Ram 1500 models.
Where can I find a 2026 Ram 1500 near Phoenix, AZ?
Peoria and Phoenix area shoppers can view available 2026 Ram 1500 trucks at Larry H. Miller Dodge Ram Peoria.
