The 1.2-liter PureTech and 1.5-liter BlueHDi engines have gained notoriety due to their frequent reliability issues, which have severely impacted Stellantis’ sales. However, another engine with completely different specifications, one that was extremely popular, has been abandoned by the group: the V8 Hemi.
The decision to abandon the V8 Hemi engine, popular in America, is sometimes attributed to former CEO Carlos Tavares, who was heavily criticized for it. The company has finally reversed this decision.
The former CEO of Stellantis, Carlos Tavares, was blamed for the decision to abandon the V8 Hemi engine, which is popular in the Ram pickup brand. The 2500 and 3500 large trucks retained the V8 gasoline engine from this popular engine family, while the more widely available 1500 “small” truck, as well as the latest Dodge Charger, were dropped.
This decision sparked intense controversy. Carlos Tavares has been widely criticized for failing to consider American drivers’ fondness for these old, large engines. However, the criticisms directed at the former CEO remain merely analyses and rumors, not official news.
What is now certain is the long-awaited return of the V8 Hemi engine, and the manufacturer, Ram, has finally confirmed the news. The press release even began with the resounding phrase, “The legend returns,” to emphasize the symbolic nature of this decision.
Ram announced immediate pre-orders for the 2026 Ram 1500, equipped with the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine, complete with its distinctive “protest” badge. It is scheduled to arrive in dealerships this summer.
“Everyone makes mistakes, but how you react to them is what defines you,” said Tim Kuniskis, CEO of Ram America. Ram made a mistake by abandoning the Hemi engine.
The return of the V8 Hemi engine demonstrates Stellantis’ flexibility, as it pays close attention to the desires and requests of its customers. It previously announced the return of the Fiat 500 as a hybrid model and the abandonment of the fully electric version, due to the desire of its customers who were not satisfied with the model’s transition to an all-electric model.
The return of the V8 Hemi engine to Ram vehicles is a tribute to the fans of this type of engine. The group could have completely abandoned the engine, citing its size or fuel consumption, and this is a strong point that distinguishes Stellantis from other companies.
