New entry-level pickup brings lower starting price to Ram’s consumer pickup line.
Ram recently unveiled the 2026 1500 Express, aiming to provide a more affordable option in the full-size pickup truck segment. This model is designed to appeal to shoppers who want the capability of a vehicle like this but without any of the available luxury features that have caused suggested retail prices to spike north of $70,000.
2026 Ram 1500 Express: Coming Soon
Replacing Ram Classic
Express replaces the Ram 1500 Classic in the truck maker’s product portfolio. It’s a more consumer-oriented version of the brand’s commercial-grade Ram 1500 Tradesman. Styling for the Express is comparatively simple with monochromatic exterior trim, minimal badging, and standard 20-inch wheels. A full suite of driver-assist features are standard, including adaptive radar cruise control and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
Engines
Standard power comes from the brand’s 3.6-liter “Pentastar” V-6 engine, producing 305 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Available for $1,695 is Ram’s 3.0-liter “Hurricane” inline 6-cylinder engine rated for 420 horsepower and 469 pound-feet of torque. Both engines pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard with 4-wheel drive available as a $2,750 option. Maximum towing capacity is 11,550 pounds.
Black Express
Also optional on models equipped with 4-wheel drive is the Black Express package. For $995, buyers will receive a sport hood, black badges and wheels, side steps, LED fog lights, and upgraded interior trim with digital gauge cluster.
Price
The 2026 Ram 1500 Express starts at $44,495, including $2,095 manufacturer destination fee. Orders are open now, with Ram expecting initial retail deliveries to begin in the third quarter of 2025.
CG Says:
We applaud Ram-parent Stellantis for introducing the Express trim to entice more budget-conscious shoppers. By combining essential modern features with strong engine options, this new entry-level rig nicely fills the gap left by the Ram 1500 Classic.
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Ram 1500 Express Pictures
