Ram 1500 Review: Does the New Twin-Turbo Six Outperform the Hemi?

Recent Trends in the Full-Size Truck Segment

Over the past several model years, automakers have accelerated the shift away from large-displacement V8 engines in half-ton pickups. Fuel economy regulations, evolving tow-cycle testing, and consumer demand for responsive low-end torque have pushed engineers toward forced-induction alternatives. Ram’s move to replace the longstanding 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six (marketed as the Hurricane engine) follows a pattern already seen in competitors’ offerings. Initial take rates suggest a divided audience: early adopters cite the six-cylinder’s peak torque delivery, while loyalists voice hesitation about long-term durability and sound character.

Background: What the Hurricane Engine Replaces

The Hemi V8 has been a Ram staple for roughly two decades, known for its broad powerband and distinctive exhaust note. The new Hurricane straight-six appears in two states of tune:

• Standard output: Approximately 420 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque — competitive with the outgoing 5.7-liter Hemi’s peak figures.
• High-output variant: Around 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft, aimed at buyers who previously stepped up to the 6.2-liter supercharged Hellcat or considered heavy-duty options.

Both versions pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission. On paper, the high-output Hurricane surpasses the Hemi in peak torque by a meaningful margin — roughly 10-12% — and reaches maximum twist at a lower rpm. This change alters the driving character more than the spec sheet alone suggests.

User Concerns: Real-World Tradeoffs

Early feedback from owners and independent reviewers highlights several recurring points of discussion:

• Fuel economy: Combined EPA estimates for the twin-turbo six range from 19-22 mpg depending on configuration, an improvement of roughly 2-4 mpg over the Hemi in similar drivetrains. Real-world results vary significantly with load, driving style, and ambient temperature.
• Reliability uncertainty: The Hurricane engine is newer to market, and long-term data on turbocharger life, carbon buildup on direct-injection valves, and cooling system robustness remains limited. Ram has not publicly disclosed warranty claim rates comparing the two powertrains.
• Sound and feel: Owners report that the six-cylinder lacks the low-frequency rumble many truck buyers associate with capability. The engine is objectively quieter under cruise, but some drivers describe the sound as “industrial” during hard acceleration.
• Towing manners: The twin-turbo six delivers strong low-end pull, which helps when starting from a stop with a trailer. However, sustained high-load operation — such as mountain passes or extended grades — places greater thermal stress on the turbochargers. Cooling system design and transmission shift logic are critical factors here.

Likely Impact on Buyer Decisions

The performance gap between the two powertrains is narrower than the marketing narrative suggests. Real-world comparisons show the high-output Hurricane offers a clear advantage in acceleration and passing power, while the standard-tune version closely mirrors the Hemi’s capability for most daily driving and moderate towing. Likely outcomes include:

• Fleet and commercial buyers may favor the Hemi (where still available) due to familiarity and lower initial cost, unless fuel savings offset the price difference over a typical 5-7 year ownership cycle.
• Personal-use truck buyers who prioritize towing over 9,000 pounds or frequent long-distance hauling will evaluate the twin-turbo six’s durability track record before committing.
• Enthusiasts who value engine character and aftermarket support are likely to stick with or seek out used Hemi-equipped trucks.
• The resale value delta between the two engines will take 3-4 model years to establish, making early leasing a lower-risk option for early adopters.

Practical range estimate: A properly equipped Ram 1500 with the high-output Hurricane can tow between 10,000 and 11,000 pounds, while the standard version holds around 8,500-9,000 pounds. The outgoing Hemi typically fell in the 9,500-10,500 pound range depending on cab and axle ratio.

What to Watch Next

Several developments will shape how this powertrain transition is remembered:

• Real-world reliability data: Consumer surveys and independent shop repair frequency reports over the next two years will either validate or undermine early confidence in the Hurricane engine.
• Weight and packaging changes: The straight-six is physically lighter than the V8, which may allow Ram to adjust suspension tuning or add payload capacity in future model updates.
• Hybrid and electrification overlap: Ram’s upcoming full-electric 1500 REV and the range-extended Ramcharger may reduce the urgency to perfect the twin-turbo six for buyers who want maximum efficiency or towing range.
• Competitor responses: Ford’s PowerBoost hybrid V6 and General Motors’ 6.2-liter V8, plus their own turbocharged options, will continue to evolve — narrowing or widening the performance-per-dollar gap annually.

For now, the question “Does the new twin-turbo six outperform the Hemi?” can only be answered conditionally. In outright power and efficiency, yes — especially in high-output trim. In familiarity, long-term cost predictability, and emotional appeal, the Hemi retains a loyal following that the Hurricane has not yet fully won over. The next two model years will be decisive.