The news is finally out, and the 2026 Ram 1500 SRT TRX is officially coming to dealerships later this year. This announcement marks a massive moment for performance trucks. In fact, the 2026 Ram 1500 SRT TRX is arriving with a staggering 777 horsepower. Furthermore, the pricing for the 2026 Ram 1500 SRT TRX starts at approximately $102,590 including destination. Consequently, this truck is going to kick the living daylights out of the Ford Raptor R.
The Horsepower War Is Back
This release is more than just a new model year. It represents a declaration of war on the Ford Raptor R. Specifically, Ram is not just launching a truck with a massive amount of horsepower. They are launching the most powerful truck off a dealership showroom floor ever built. Therefore, we need to do a proper side-by-side comparison. We must compare the stats and pricing of the new Ram against the Raptor R to see who really wins.
Pricing plays a huge role in this battle. For example, the 2026 Ram 1500 SRT TRX has an MSRP of $102,590. This price includes the destination charge. On the other hand, the 2025 Ford F-150 Raptor R carries an MSRP of $113,525. As a result, right out of the gate, you will save over $10,000 by choosing the Ram. In addition, you are getting significantly more horsepower for that lower price.
Comparing the Specs: Ram vs. Ford
Let’s break down the performance numbers. The Ram features a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8. Meanwhile, the Raptor R uses a 5.2-liter V8. The output difference is undeniable. The Ram delivers 777 horsepower versus the Raptor R’s 720 horsepower. Additionally, the torque figures tell a similar story. You get 680 lb-ft of torque in the Ram compared to 640 lb-ft in the Raptor R.
That torque difference is something you will likely feel on the road. When you tie that power to the pavement, the results are impressive. For instance, the Ram achieves a 0 to 60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds. The Raptor R also sits right around the mid-3-second range. However, these are massive trucks, so moving that fast is insane. Furthermore, the Ram utilizes an 8-speed automatic TorqueFlite transmission, whereas the Ford uses a 10-speed automatic.
Tires, Suspension, and Handling
The comparison gets interesting when you look at the running gear. The Ram TRX comes standard with 35-inch tires. In contrast, the Raptor R comes with 37-inch tires. Consequently, if you want the massive “monster truck” look, the Ford has a slight edge there. However, smaller tires on the Ram likely help with that blistering acceleration. If you want maximum punch on the pavement, the Ram has the power edge.
Suspension tech is also top-tier on both sides. The Ram uses Bilstein Blackhawk e2 adaptive shocks. Conversely, the Ford utilizes Fox Dual Live Valve shocks. Both offer incredible suspension travel. The Ram provides up to 14 inches of travel depending on the configuration. Ultimately, if you value speed, the Ram’s setup with 35s and 777 horsepower is the winner. You can always put bigger tires on the TRX later if you choose.
The Dealer Markup Warning
There is one major potential issue with this launch. Dealers are likely to completely screw this up. Ram promised us a $102,590 MSRP. However, history shows that dealers love to add market adjustments. I don’t care how bad you want this thing. Do not pay the markup. Do not pay a market adjustment. It does not matter how much you want to be the first person with the truck.
If buyers refuse to pay extra, dealers will eventually have to sell them at MSRP. This is going to be a very special truck, no question. But paying over sticker price ruins the market for everyone. Currently, we see Ford dealers playing these games with the Raptor R. For example, some listings in Southern California show markups of $20,000. This takes the price to over $134,000. That is a boatload of money. Therefore, be patient and hold out for the right price.
The Return of the V8 and SRT
This launch says a lot about the future of Stellantis brands. Ram clearly branded the truck as an SRT. This is the first major launch since Tim Kuniskis reunited SRT. Consequently, this is a great way for the brand to re-launch. It screams that Dodge and Ram are definitely committed to V8s again. This is great news for enthusiasts who love superchargers and big engines.
The engineers did not just tune the old engine. They utilized direct connection and new engine management systems. As a result, this is a genuine update, not just a rehash. It is a place where customers win. Specifically, customers who love horsepower and V8 performance are the real winners here. We can only hope this philosophy extends to the rest of the market for Dodge moving forward.
Impact on the Used TRX Market
This new release creates an opportunity for used truck buyers. If you are thinking about buying a used TRX right now, you might want to wait. The arrival of the 2026 model means many current owners will likely trade in their old trucks. As a result, there might be some better deals lingering on lots soon. It was brilliant for Ram to launch something significantly different rather than just bringing back the same truck.
Because the new truck has significantly more horsepower, trade-ins will happen. Consequently, prices on the previous generation should drop. This creates deals for all of us out there looking for a used performance truck. Overall, these are all good things for the automotive market. However, everything depends on how the dealers behave. If Ram dealers play the same stupid games as Ford dealers, it will get ugly at the beginning.
Just remember to be patient. Do not have FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). Hold out for MSRP, and let the horsepower wars continue.
