Ram is charging into the 2026 model year with bold energy, unveiling two fresh takes on its heavy-duty lineup with the debut of the Ram 2500 Black Express and Warlock models. Aimed squarely at buyers who want the rugged capability of a ¾-ton truck with added attitude, these new trims bring more style and value to the HD segment without breaking the bank.
Building on the entry-level Tradesman trim, both the Black Express and Warlock pack a visual punch and useful features while staying accessible in price. The Black Express package is priced at $2,495 and starts at $53,735 including destination, while the Warlock package commands $2,995 with a starting price of $57,165. Both are available for order now and will arrive at dealers in the third quarter of 2025.
Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis summed it up well, saying, “Everyone likes a good-looking truck, but the challenge is making it affordable while adding value.” These two new packages answer that challenge directly, giving budget-conscious truck buyers a new way to stand out.
Ram 2500 Black Express – Subtle and Stealthy
For those who want their truck to look clean and sharp with a touch of muscle, the Black Express is the choice. Available in Crew Cab 4×2 or 4×4 configurations with either a long or short bed, it wears a sport performance hood, body-color bumpers, and grille surround. Black 20-inch wheels and cab-length black side steps help complete the murdered-out look, while inside you’ll find cloth bench seating, carpeted floors, and ParkSense front and rear sensors.
This isn’t just a cosmetic package, though. Ram includes class-exclusive Power Convex Trailer Tow Mirrors, enhancing functionality for those who use their truck for towing. A range of paint colors, from bold Flame Red to subtle Ceramic Grey, adds flexibility for buyers looking to personalize.
Ram 2500 Warlock – Off-Road Swagger with a Heritage Twist
The Warlock name returns to the heavy-duty ranks for the first time, reviving a legacy that dates back to the 1970s Dodge D-Series. What was once part of the brand’s “Adult Toys” lineup now comes back with modern flair and off-road credibility.
Offered exclusively as a Crew Cab 4×4 with a short bed, the Warlock adds a black grille, wheel flares, and bumpers, along with a Warlock decal across the bed. Underneath, it features 34-inch Goodyear Duratrac all-terrain tires, Bilstein shocks tuned for rough terrain, an anti-spin differential, and a skid plate to protect the transfer case. Hill Descent Control is also included, making it a more capable off-road companion than many might expect at this price point.
Visually, the Warlock goes for a tough but stylish stance with diamond-cut 20-inch wheels and a higher-riding profile, making it a standout among other HD offerings. Its interior features all-weather mats and practical cloth seating, ready for dirty boots and rugged use.
Powertrain and Ride Quality That Deliver
Both new models come standard with Ram’s proven 6.4-liter HEMI V8 producing 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired to a Torqueflite 8-speed automatic transmission. For those needing extra grunt, the optional 6.7-liter Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel cranks out a class-best 1,075 lb-ft of torque and 430 horsepower, making either trim suitable for serious towing and hauling.
Where Ram continues to shine is ride quality. Thanks to its class-exclusive link-coil rear suspension system, the 2500 series delivers a smoother, more refined driving experience whether loaded or empty.
Expanding a Winning Playbook
These two new additions are part of Ram’s broader strategy to roll out 25 product announcements over the next 18 months. They also bolster Ram’s already strong sport truck lineup, which now includes options like the Ram 1500 Rebel, RHO, and Power Wagon, as well as the Black Express and Warlock on both light and heavy-duty platforms.
The 2026 Ram 2500 Black Express and Warlock are being assembled in Saltillo, Mexico, and represent a clear effort to give dealers more flexible price points while keeping customers excited. They cater to a growing market segment of buyers who don’t want to sacrifice style or features just because they need heavy-duty performance.
For truck buyers looking to turn heads without going over budget, these two new models deliver in spades. Expect to see them on dealer lots soon, adding more personality and capability to Ram’s already diverse lineup.
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Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
