Stellantis is bringing the HEMI V8 back to the Ram 1500 lineup after a one-year absence

Stellantis announced in late 2024 that the HEMI 5.7-liter V8 engine will return as an option on the 2025 Ram 1500, ending a gap that began when the automaker discontinued it after the 2023 model year. The engine had been absent from the 2024 lineup as Stellantis focused production on the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel and the standard 5.7-liter HEMI replacement, the 5.7-liter Hurricane twin-turbocharged engine. The HEMI's return addresses customer demand for the traditional naturally aspirated V8, which has been a signature engine in Ram trucks for decades.

The 2025 HEMI will produce the same 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque as the final 2023 model year version. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available on most Ram 1500 trim levels, though availability may vary by region and dealer inventory. Pricing for the HEMI option has not been officially released, but historical data suggests it typically costs between $1,500 and $2,500 more than the standard engine choice.

Key Takeaways

  • The HEMI V8 returns for 2025 after being absent from the 2024 Ram 1500 model year.
  • The engine produces 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, unchanged from 2023 specifications.
  • Customers can choose between the HEMI, the Hurricane twin-turbo engine, or the EcoDiesel depending on trim level and dealer stock.
  • The HEMI option typically carries an upcharge of $1,500 to $2,500 over the base engine, though exact pricing varies by region.

Why Stellantis removed the HEMI and why it's coming back

Stellantis discontinued the HEMI after 2023 to consolidate its engine lineup and shift production toward newer powertrains. The company was managing supply chain constraints and wanted to prioritize the Hurricane engine, a new twin-turbocharged 5.7-liter that was designed to deliver better fuel economy while maintaining comparable power. The EcoDiesel 3.0-liter also remained available for buyers seeking diesel efficiency.

The 2024 model year proved that customer preference for the HEMI remained strong. Ram truck buyers, particularly those in work and towing segments, continued to request the naturally aspirated V8. Stellantis responded by bringing it back rather than forcing all buyers into the Hurricane or diesel options. This move reflects a broader industry pattern: even as manufacturers invest in turbocharged and electrified engines, traditional V8 demand in the truck market has not disappeared.

HEMI versus Hurricane: what's different

The HEMI and Hurricane engines serve different buyer priorities. The HEMI is naturally aspirated, meaning it draws air without forced induction. It delivers when ready throttle response and a distinctive engine sound that many truck owners prefer. The HEMI has been in production since 2003 and carries decades of reliability history in Ram trucks.

The Hurricane is turbocharged and designed to match the HEMI's power output (395 hp, 410 lb-ft) while improving fuel economy by roughly 10 to 15 percent in real-world driving. The Hurricane is newer technology with a smaller displacement, which also means lower emissions in most testing scenarios. However, some buyers report that turbo engines require more maintenance attention to the intercooler and turbo system over their lifetime, and they may be less forgiving of neglected oil changes.

The EcoDiesel 3.0-liter produces 260 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque, making it the strongest option for towing. Diesel fuel costs more than gasoline in most regions, but the EcoDiesel's efficiency can offset that over high-mileage ownership. Diesel engines also tend to hold resale value well in the truck market.

Availability and trim levels for the 2025 HEMI

The 2025 HEMI is available on most Ram 1500 configurations, but Stellantis has not released a complete trim-by-trim breakdown. Historically, the HEMI has been offered on Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, and Limited trims, with some regional or dealer-specific restrictions. The Rebel and TRX trims typically have their own engine requirements or options.

Availability depends partly on dealer allocation. Stellantis distributes engines to dealers based on regional demand forecasts, so a dealer in a rural area may stock more HEMIs than one in an urban market. If a specific dealer does not have a HEMI-equipped truck in stock, they can usually order one, though lead times vary. Contacting the dealer's sales department directly is the fastest way to confirm what configurations they can source.

Fuel economy and real-world performance

The HEMI achieves approximately 16 to 18 miles per gallon in combined driving, depending on transmission type, drivetrain (two-wheel or four-wheel drive), and driving habits. Highway fuel economy typically runs 20 to 22 mpg, while city driving drops to 14 to 16 mpg. These figures are consistent with 2023 model year data and represent the naturally aspirated engine's inherent trade-off: strong power and torque at the cost of fuel consumption.

The Hurricane achieves roughly 18 to 20 mpg combined, a meaningful difference over a truck's lifetime. For a buyer who drives 15,000 miles annually, the Hurricane saves approximately 150 to 300 gallons per year depending on driving patterns. Over five years, that translates to roughly $600 to $1,200 in fuel savings at current prices, which can offset or exceed the upcharge for the HEMI option.

Towing capacity is similar across both engines: the HEMI and Hurricane are both rated for up to 12,000 pounds when properly equipped. The EcoDiesel can tow up to 12,500 pounds. Payload capacity does not change by engine choice on the same trim level.

Resale value and long-term ownership costs

HEMI-equipped Ram 1500s historically hold resale value well, particularly in rural and work-truck markets where the V8 is preferred. A 2023 HEMI 1500 typically retains 55 to 65 percent of its original purchase price after three years, depending on mileage and condition. Hurricane-equipped trucks have less historical data, but early indications suggest similar retention rates.

Maintenance costs favor the HEMI slightly. Naturally aspirated engines have fewer components to fail: no turbocharger, no intercooler, no complex boost management system. Oil changes, spark plugs, and routine service are straightforward and widely available. The Hurricane requires more specialized service if turbo issues arise, though Stellantis dealers are equipped to handle it. Both engines use the same eight-speed transmission and share most other components.

Warranty coverage is identical: Stellantis provides a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty on all 2025 Ram 1500 engines, regardless of which one you choose.

How to order or locate a 2025 HEMI Ram 1500

Ram dealers began taking 2025 model year orders in mid-2024, and HEMI availability increased as production ramped up. To locate a HEMI-equipped truck, contact your local Ram dealer and provide your preferred trim level, cab style (Regular, Quad, or Crew), and bed length. The dealer can check their current inventory and incoming allocations, or place a factory order if nothing is in stock.

Factory orders typically take 8 to 12 weeks for delivery, depending on current production schedules and regional demand. Dealers may charge a deposit (usually $500 to $1,000) to hold a factory order. Some dealers also mark up HEMI trucks above manufacturer's suggested retail price if demand is high in their market, so it is worth calling multiple dealers if you are flexible on location.

You can also check Ram's official website or third-party inventory sites like Autotrader or Cars.com to see which dealers near you have HEMI 1500s in stock. These sites show trim, color, options, and sometimes pricing, though dealer-specific markups may not be reflected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2025 HEMI the same engine as the 2023 model?

Yes, the 2025 HEMI is mechanically identical to the 2023 version: 5.7 liters, 395 horsepower, 410 pound-feet of torque, naturally aspirated. Stellantis made no changes to the engine itself. The main difference is that it was absent from the 2024 lineup and is now back.

Should I buy a HEMI or wait for the Hurricane to become more common?

That depends on your priorities. If you value proven reliability, distinctive engine sound, and simpler maintenance, the HEMI is the safer choice. If fuel economy and newer technology matter more, the Hurricane is worth considering. Both are solid engines; the HEMI has 20 years of Ram truck history behind it, while the Hurricane is newer and still building its track record.

Will the HEMI be discontinued again after 2025?

Stellantis has not announced any plans to discontinue the HEMI again. The company brought it back specifically because customer demand remained high. However, long-term engine strategy depends on emissions regulations and market trends, so nothing is may provide beyond the 2025 model year.

Can I get a HEMI on a Ram 1500 Classic?

The Ram 1500 Classic (the previous generation sold alongside the current generation) has its own engine lineup. The HEMI is available on the current-generation 1500 (DT platform, 2019 and newer). If you are shopping used or looking at older inventory, confirm the generation before assuming HEMI availability.

What is the price difference between a HEMI and a Hurricane on the same truck?

Stellantis typically charges $1,500 to $2,500 more for the HEMI option compared to the Hurricane on the same trim level, though exact pricing has not been officially released for 2025. Regional pricing and dealer markups can vary significantly, so contact your dealer for a specific quote.