The 2026 Ram 1500 offers four gas engines, and the maximum towing capacity depends on the specific trim, cab, drivetrain, axle ratio, and other equipment. The chart below provides the applicable engine and trim combinations and their published maximum towing ratings.

Maximum Towing by Specific High-Capability Configuration

These figures are maximum ratings, not universal ratings for every Ram 1500 equipped with that engine. For example, the Standard-Output Hurricane can reach 11,610 pounds in the right configuration, but other combinations of cab, bed, axle ratio, and four-wheel drive have lower ratings.

The 2026 Ram 1500 offers four engine options, with towing capacity ranging from 8,130 to 11,610 pounds. Each powertrain brings a different combination of towing capability, horsepower, and performance.

The takeaway: If maximum towing is your priority, the 3.0L Hurricane Standard-Output leads the lineup at 11,610 pounds. The 5.7L HEMI V8 is close behind, while the High-Output Hurricane delivers the most horsepower but isn't the maximum-towing option. Actual capacity varies by configuration, so trim, drivetrain, and axle ratio should be considered when choosing your Ram 1500.

With up to 11,610 pounds of maximum towing capacity, a properly equipped Ram 1500 can handle a wide variety of recreational and work-related trailers. Depending on the trailer's actual weight and the Ram 1500 configuration, this can include travel trailers, boats, enclosed cargo trailers, utility trailers, car haulers, and other conventional-hitch loads.

For example, smaller utility trailers and boats may be well within the capability of several Ram 1500 configurations, while larger travel trailers and vehicle haulers make the engine, axle ratio, drivetrain, and payload rating increasingly important. According to Ram Trucks, the 2026 Ram 1500 is not recommended for fifth-wheel towing, and Ram identifies the 2500 and 3500 as better suited for the weight and stability requirements of most fifth-wheel setups.²

Towing capacity is only one part of the equation. Passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue weight also count toward the truck's available payload. Ram recommends a weight-distributing system for trailers over 5,000 pounds, and the manufacturer's towing guide states that the Class IV hitch receiver has a maximum tongue-weight limit of 1,100 pounds.

The Ram 1500 offers available towing technology designed to make hitching, maneuvering, and monitoring a trailer easier. Features such as Trailer Hitch Assist, Trailer Reverse Guidance with Dynamic Gridlines, an Integrated Trailer Health Monitor, a Digital Rearview Mirror with Tow Mode, and power telescoping trailer tow mirrors can provide added convenience when towing. 

Trailer Hitch Assist helps align the truck with the trailer tongue, while Trailer Reverse Guidance helps show the trailer's path when backing up. 

At our Ram dealer, you can explore our selection of new Ram 1500 trucks near Cameron, TX. Our inventory includes models such as the Tradesman, Express, Lone Star/Big Horn, and Laramie, with available configurations featuring the Hurricane and HEMI powertrains. Whether you're looking for maximum towing capability or a truck equipped for everyday hauling, our team can help you compare your options.