2026 RAM 1500 Longhorn: Quick Drive at the Texas Truck Rodeo

The Texas Truck Rodeo always brings out the best from the pickup world, and Ram showed up this year with something fans have been asking for. The HEMI V8 is back in the Ram 1500, and the new badge on the fender makes sure you don’t miss it. Ram says demand was so strong that when they announced the return of the 5.7-liter V8 earlier this year, orders flooded in immediately.

I spent a short road loop in the 2026 Ram 1500 Longhorn Crew Cab 4×4, and even in that limited time, it was clear why this engine still has an audience. The power delivery is smooth, the sound is right, and the truck feels confident pulling away from the venue. The eTorque setup keeps the starts clean and steady, and the 8-speed automatic remains one of the better transmissions in the class.

This Longhorn trim leans into Ram’s western-luxury theme. The Bison Brown leather, filigree seating, and real wood trim help set the cabin apart. The large 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen continues to be one of the standout tech features, joined here by a digital cluster and the optional passenger-side interactive display. The window sticker for this truck also lists the four-corner air suspension, which helps the ride feel composed on rough Texas pavement.

I didn’t take this one on the off-road course, choosing instead to run a quick paved loop outside Eagles Canyon Raceway. The truck rides well, turns predictably, and carries itself with that familiar Ram comfort. Fuel economy is rated at 18 mpg combined, which falls right in line with what you’d expect from a full-size V8 truck.

Ram left its mark on this year’s Rodeo, picking up multiple honors — including Full-Size Pickup Truck of Texas and Luxury Pickup Truck of Texas for the Longhorn. After driving it, it’s easy to see why. The return of the HEMI adds character, and the Longhorn trim continues to offer one of the nicest interiors in the segment.

For more from the Texas Truck Rodeo and all our quick drives, stay tuned to TXGarage.