The 2023 Ram 1500 is turning heads with its undeniable strength and reliability. Not to mention it’s backed by years of innovation. From its unveiling in 1981 to now, the Ram 1500 has been through five generations, each bringing new improvements and changes to assist drivers with navigation, towing, and more. Notable powertrain updates include the release of the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine in 2014 and the addition of the eTorque mild hybrid system in 2019. Through it all, the Ram 1500 has continued to be a top competitor in the very competitive truck market because of the brand’s dedication to improving the overall experience of truck owners.
Today, the 2023 Ram 1500 is the most advanced offering yet. It’s a functional and enjoyable truck that focuses on providing technology, comfort, and power. The power part of this equation can be seen in the four available engine choices, each of which has its own perks, but all include the reliability and performance that Ram is known for. Keep reading to learn more about each engine option, and then visit a Ram dealer near you to see the 2023 Ram 1500 up close. Whichever powertrain you choose, you’ll enjoy the comfort of knowing you’re driving a truck you can depend on.
5.7L HEMI V8 With eTorque
This powerful engine offers a mix of traditional V8 engineering and innovative technology to produce 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a modern eight-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode and available paddle shifters for optimal control. Depending on the trim and configuration, a 2023 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI can tow up to 12,750 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,940 lbs. This powerful engine is an available option on every trim except for the Tradesman Harbor Freight Edition and the TRX. However, it only comes standard on the 2023 Ram 1500 Limited.
For 2023, the 5.7L HEMI comes standard with Ram’s innovative eTorque mild hybrid system. This technology replaces the traditional alternator with a belt-driven electric motor to provide more low-end torque, giving you the power and control you need, no matter which Ram 1500 model you choose. Even better? The eTorque system uses regenerative braking to give you better fuel efficiency and a smooth driving experience. The 2023 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI and eTorque is rated for up to 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway, making it more efficient than the V8 options from Chevy, GMC, and Nissan.
3.6L Pentastar V6 With eTorque
This proven engine uses the same eTorque system as the 5.7L HEMI, delivering easy stop-and-start operation with improved fuel economy and more low-end torque. These may seem like small things, but the mixture gives you a ride normally reserved for luxury SUVs, not trucks built to withstand hard work. It’s also worth mentioning that the Pentastar V6 is a seven-time winner of the Wards 10 Best Engines award and can be found under the hood of countless models, ranging from the Dodge Challenger to the Jeep Wrangler.
The 3.6L Pentastar engine provides 305 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, providing the 2023 Ram 1500 with a max towing capacity of 7,730 lbs and a max payload capacity of 2,300 lbs. This engine is standard on all trims except for the Limited and the TRX, and there really isn’t much need to upgrade unless you require a higher towing capacity. In the 2023 Ram 1500, the Pentastar V6 offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 20 MPG in town and 25 MPG on the highway, which is a small but noticeable improvement over the 5.7L HEMI V8.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6 Turbo-Diesel
This turbo-diesel engine gives you power and control while offering the longest available 4×4 highway driving range in the segment, with over 950 miles on a single tank of fuel. That translates to a rated fuel economy of 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway, even with a standard 4×4 drivetrain. Of course, this diesel doesn’t sacrifice performance for efficiency. With 480 lb-ft of torque, it gives you the power you need to drive with confidence. Not only that, but you also get a maximum towing capacity of 9,600 lbs and a maximum payload rating of 2,090 lbs.
This engine is available on select trims and is definitely an option to consider if towing large trailers long distances is in your future. The 3.0L EcoDiesel is even rated to run B20 biofuel, which can help you save even more money on fuel. However, the 2023 model is the last year for the EcoDiesel engine as Ram makes way for more eco-friendly options, so if you’re looking for a new diesel truck, buy while you can. The 2023 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel won’t disappoint if you need a rugged truck that can provide fuel efficiency and towing power.
6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8
This option is the most powerful engine in any factory light-duty truck and is only available on the 2023 Ram 1500 TRX. The supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 engine was first seen in the 2015 Dodge Hellcat and has been tweaked and improved over the last few years to what it is now. It gives you a whopping 702 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque with an estimated top speed of 118 mph. To make full use of this incredible engine, the TRX has standard 4×4 and is built for top-notch performance and control. However, the immense power of a supercharged HEMI doesn’t translate into superior towing power––the off-road features of the TRX mean it maxes out at a towing capacity of 8,220 lbs.
The rugged and aggressive exterior of the TRX exudes an adventurous vibe and gives you a sense of racing spirit, which is supported by its ability to go from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds. The 2023 Ram 1500 TRX stands out above the rest of the Ram 1500 lineup with an eight-inch wider stance, 35-inch all-terrain tires, and LED marker lamps inside the prominent hood scoop. The TRX also has an impressive grille with a state-of-the-art air-induction system that filters debris and feeds up to 8.7 gallons of air per minute to the engine. Although the TRX might not be the best choice for everyday driving, it is a fun vehicle to own for off-roading adventures. You can also customize your TRX with genuine Mopar accessories.
Choose the Ram 1500 That Matches Your Needs
Ram engines are reliable, and the brand stands behind them with extensive warranty support. The three gasoline engine options come with a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, while the 3.0L EcoDiesel boasts a five-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. No matter which engine you choose, you will enjoy five years or 100,000 miles of roadside assistance, giving you the confidence you need to enjoy your Ram 1500 for many years after your purchase.
Whether you need a truck that you can drive every day or one that can haul a camper on the weekends for some time away from it all, one of the 2023 Ram 1500 engine choices will meet your needs. And no matter which engine you choose, you will find premium comfort features, the latest technology, and impressive driver-assist tools throughout. All of that is backed by Ram’s dedication to providing its drivers with quality vehicles that stand the test of time.
