Ford F-150 vs RAM 1500

In its 14th generation and two years after a modest refresh, the 2026 Ford F-150 reshuffles standard and optional equipment across its eight trims, three beds, three cabs, and six powertrains. The electric F-150 Lightning ended production after the 2025 model year, leaving with it the potential for a plug-in hybrid in a future generation. For this test, we grabbed a low-level trim—the STX Lobo—to see how the F-150 fares with a traditional V8 and fewer features.

Verdict: The F-150 is the full-size truck with the most versatility and configurations on the market today.

The Hemi V8 is back for the 2026 model year and now marked by what Ram calls a “Symbol of Protest” badge. As much as we’d like to say it’s better than ever, it’s actually the same as it’s ever been. The 5.7-liter Hemi spins out 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, well below the less-expensive Hurricane turbocharged inline-six’s 420 hp and 469 lb-ft, and way behind the optional High Output Hurricane engine’s 540 hp and 521 lb-ft. But the fact that it’s an option at all will be enough to entice some buyers back to the Ram fold.

Verdict: There’s a lot to like about the 2026 Ram 1500, including its characterful Hemi V8. But if you’re looking for the best version of Ram’s popular pickup, you should think long and hard about how you plan to use the truck. With 10 trim levels and two cab sizes and bed lengths to go along with its four powertrain choices, there are plenty of ways to configure a Ram truck to your exact needs.