With the 2026 Ram 1500 Express, Ram makes a value play in the full-size pickup market, introducing the spiritual successor to the Ram 1500 Classic at a palatable base price under $45,000, including destination.
With affordability increasingly on consumers’ minds, Ram is responding by introducing a new value-oriented version of its popular Ram 1500 pickup. Aimed at the same target customer group as the recently discontinued Ram 1500 Classic, the new Ram 1500 Express delivers full-size truck capability with everything you need and nothing you don’t, with the usual dose of Ram style and attitude—all for $44,495, including the $2,095 destination charge.
It’s been a busy 12 months for the Stellantis truck brand. In the past calendar year, Ram has introduced heavily refreshed versions of its light-duty Ram 1500, off-road-oriented Ram 1500 RHO, electrified Ram 1500 Ramcharger, fully electric Ram 1500 REV, and Ram Heavy Duty—all for the 2025 model year. However, Ram subsequently pushed back the launch of its all-electric truck to 2026 due to changing market conditions. With this latest product announcement, Ram keeps the pedal to the metal with new model introductions.
Available in Quad Cab (extended cab) or Crew Cab configurations with a choice of rear-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), the new Ram 1500 Express features a standard 305-horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. For an extra $1,695, buyers can opt for the more powerful 3.0-liter Hurricane Standard Output (SO) inline six-cylinder engine, rated at 420 hp. The truck rides on 20-inch wheels, and Ram says the 1500 Express can tow up to 11,550 pounds.
In keeping with the brand’s aggressive exterior styling ethos, the 2026 Ram 1500 Express features LED headlights contained within black bezels, gloss-black grille surrounds, shaved badges, and a monochromatic paint scheme with front and rear bumpers painted the same color as the truck body. Additionally, Liquid Graphite laser-etched paint dresses up the interior.
For an even more aggressive “blackout” look, buyers can opt for the $995 Black Express package, available only on 4WD models. It includes a sport hood, LED fog lights, black badges, side steps, black wheels, and an upgraded interior. The latter contains a 7-inch gauge cluster, black cloth bucket seats, and a floor console.
As you might imagine, with an emphasis on value, the Ram 1500 Express is not a technological tour de force. However, the automaker said the truck would have adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
Available to order now with deliveries from the Sterling Heights, Michigan, assembly plant expected in the third quarter of 2025, the new Ram 1500 Express is available in five colors: Diamond Black, Bright White, Granite Crystal, Forged Blue, and Hydro Blue.
When it arrives later in 2025, the 2026 Ram 1500 Express will compete against the entry-level versions of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra. By offering good looks, compelling value, and some degree of factory customization options, the new Ram 1500 Express will likely prove popular among those desiring a sporty full-size pickup with some visual flair at a respectable price.
Ram is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of May 5, 2025, but it may have changed since then. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Jeff Youngs has over 30 years of experience in the auto industry, including 19 years with JD Power in marketing and editorial management roles. He also spent five years with General Motors as a media relations professional. More recently, as a freelance automotive journalist, his work has appeared on Autotrader, Autolist, Capital One Auto Navigator, CarGurus, iSeeCars, JDPower.com, and Kelley Blue Book.
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