If you’ve looked at truck prices lately and nearly spit out your coffee, you’re not alone. New trucks are loaded with luxury features and luxury-level price tags to match. That’s what makes the return of the 2026 Ram 1500 Express such a big deal.
The automaker is bringing back a workhorse for buyers on a budget that doesn’t feel stripped down. Let's get into its many offerings so you know what to expect!
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Ram 1500 Express starts at a very affordable $44,495 as of May 22, 2025.
- LED lights, 20-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, and a 305-hp V6 are some standard features that are sure to pique your interest!
- A 420-hp twin-turbo upgrade and Black Express appearance package give it extra muscle and style without breaking the bank.
- The 2026 Ram Express hasn't hit showroom floors as of yet but should be available later this year.
Affordable Pricing in a Sky-High Market
Let’s be honest—brand-new trucks are getting expensive. Ram seems to agree because it's bringing back the Ram 1500 Express to offer a more budget-friendly option. It comes in well below the average cost of a new truck across the lineup.
2026 Ram 1500 Express pricing and trims are:
- Quad Cab 2WD: $44,495
- Crew Cab 2WD: $47,245
- Quad Cab 4WD: $48,345
- Crew Cab 4WD: $51,095
Cab Options and Exterior Features
You’ll have your choice of either a crew cab or quad cab (Ram’s extended cab), along with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. You’re also getting some nice standard touches like:
- LED headlights with black bezels
- Laser-etched interior trim
- Adaptive cruise control
- Body-colored bumpers
- 20-inch wheels
There are also five exterior colors to pick from—black, white, gray, and two different blues—so you’re not limited to just one or two boring options.
The Black Express Package Adds Attitude
The Black Express Package offers just the right amount of visual edge. For $995, you get:
- A sport hood
- Blacked-out badging
- Black cloth bucket seats
- LED fog lights
- Running boards
- Black 20-inch wheels
(This package is only available on four-wheel drive crew and quad cab models.)
Want More Power? Step Up to the Hurricane
Under the hood, the base engine is the familiar and reliable 305-hp 3.6L Pentastar V6, which delivers solid everyday performance. If you're looking for even more muscle, Ram gives you the option to upgrade to the low-output 3.0L twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six for $1,695. This engine delivers 420 horsepower and lets you tow up to 11,550 pounds when paired with the quad cab and rear-wheel drive.
So, When Can You Get One?
The Express relaunch is the first step in Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis’ big plan to roll out 25 product updates over the next 18 months. We don’t know all the details yet, but it’s an ambitious schedule, and this truck is a strong first showing.
You'll see the first deliveries of the 2026 Ram 1500 Express later this year. If you’ve been holding out for a truck that delivers real value without cutting corners, this is definitely one to watch. Contact our showroom for more information about its arrival!