The Ram 1500 has long been a favorite for drivers who want toughness without sacrificing comfort. For 2026, Ram has refreshed its lineup with a range of trims designed to fit different lifestyles. Among them, the 2026 Ram 1500 Express stands out as a sport-styled, value-oriented option that blends aggressive looks, strong capability, and smart features at a price that won’t break the bank. At Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we’re proud to showcase this exciting trim for drivers in Ventura County, Thousand Oaks, and the greater Los Angeles area.
A Fresh, Aggressive Look
Ram knows that trucks are more than just tools — they’re statements. The 2026 Ram 1500 Express reflects that philosophy with bold styling details that give it an edge over the base Tradesman model.
- Blacked-out accents: The grille surround, badging, and headlamp bezels are finished in darker tones for a more aggressive aesthetic.
- Sport hood: Adds visual muscle to the front end, setting the Express apart from more utilitarian trims.
- LED driving lamps: Standard on the Express, these not only enhance visibility but also sharpen its look.
- Interior styling: Cloth bucket seats with a full floor console and dark trim accents create a more athletic cabin feel.
For drivers who want a truck that looks as sharp pulling up to a job site as it does on a weekend drive down the Pacific Coast Highway, the Express delivers. Explore current availability in our new Ram inventory.
Engine Options – Choice Matters
One of the strengths of the 2026 Ram 1500 Express is its range of available engines. Ram ensures drivers can tailor their truck’s performance to their needs and budget.
- Standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6: Reliable and efficient, this engine balances everyday driving with respectable towing capability.
- Optional 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six: A turbocharged upgrade that delivers more torque and better responsiveness while keeping efficiency in mind.
- Available 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 with eTorque: Back by popular demand, the HEMI returns for 2026. Paired with mild-hybrid assist, it produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, while providing smoother start/stop performance and regenerative braking.
All engine options are mated to Ram’s proven 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring seamless shifts whether you’re navigating city streets or towing heavy loads.
Capability That Counts
The Express may emphasize sporty looks, but it remains every bit a Ram 1500 underneath. Built on the same foundation as its more expensive siblings, it’s capable of serious work:
- Towing capacity: Up to 11,610 pounds when properly equipped. Perfect for hauling campers, boats, or utility trailers.
- Payload capacity: As high as 2,360 pounds, ideal for tools, equipment, or weekend gear.
- 4×2 and 4×4 availability: Depending on configuration, buyers can choose the drivetrain that best suits their lifestyle.
With these numbers, the Express doesn’t just look tough — it proves itself on job sites and highways alike.
Tech & Safety Features
The 2026 Express may be positioned as a value trim, but Ram hasn’t skimped on features. Drivers can expect a well-rounded package that combines convenience and safety.
- Uconnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Adaptive cruise control for easier highway drives.
- Automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection for enhanced safety in urban settings.
- Available digital cluster and larger central display for a modern, connected cabin feel.
These features give the Express the balance of practicality and technology today’s drivers demand.
Pricing & Value
Ram has designed the Express to hit a sweet spot in the lineup: more stylish and feature-rich than the Tradesman, but more affordable than trims like the Laramie or Limited.
- Starting price: Around $44,495 (USD), including destination fees.
- Upgrade costs: Opting for the Hurricane inline-six or HEMI V8 increases the price, but many buyers will find the added performance well worth it.
For those looking to stretch their dollar even further, Simi CDJR makes it easy to estimate your current vehicle’s value through our Value Your Trade tool. Pair that with financing support available at our Finance Center, and getting into a new Express is easier than ever.
How It Fits the Ram Lineup
The Express slots neatly into the 2026 Ram 1500 family:
- Tradesman: Base model, focused on utility and affordability.
- Express: Adds sportier styling, more interior features, and stronger curb appeal.
- Big Horn / Lone Star: Expands on creature comforts and options.
- Laramie, Limited, Rebel, TRX: Premium or specialized trims for buyers wanting luxury or extreme off-road capability.
For many shoppers, the Express is the sweet spot — stylish, capable, and affordable, without climbing into premium territory.
Why Simi Valley Drivers Should Pay Attention
In Southern California, trucks aren’t just for worksites — they’re lifestyle vehicles. The Express makes sense here for several reasons:
- Aggressive style for those who want more than a plain work truck.
- Capability to tow recreational gear like ATVs, boats, or small campers for weekend adventures.
- Practicality as a daily driver with safety and comfort features for commutes around Ventura County.
At Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we understand that our customers want versatility in their trucks, and the Express delivers exactly that.
Ordering & Availability
The 2026 Ram 1500 Express is expected to arrive in showrooms late in 2025. Demand is likely to be strong, especially for popular color and engine combinations.
To get ahead of the curve:
- Browse our new inventory for the latest Ram arrivals.
- Reach out through our Contact Us page to ask about pre-orders or incoming allocations.
- Explore special offers to see if limited-time incentives apply.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Ram 1500 Express is a truck that blends style, function, and value into one compelling package. With aggressive looks, multiple powertrain choices including the returning HEMI V8, and strong towing and payload capability, it’s built for drivers who want more than the basics without paying for full luxury.
For Southern California drivers, it’s the perfect middle ground: practical for daily life, powerful enough for weekend adventures, and stylish enough to stand out wherever you go.
At Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we’re ready to help you discover everything the new Express has to offer. Whether you’re trading up, financing your first truck, or simply curious about Ram’s latest designs, our team is here to make your buying experience seamless and rewarding.
2026 Ram 1500 Express FAQ
1) What makes the 2026 Ram 1500 Express stand out?
The 2026 Ram 1500 Express combines the strength and capability of the Ram 1500 with aggressive styling and great value. It sits between the Tradesman and Big Horn trims, offering sportier looks, blacked-out accents, and a well-equipped interior — all at a price that appeals to both first-time truck buyers and experienced owners.
2) How is the Express different from the Tradesman?
The Express adds:
- 20-inch wheels
- Blacked-out grille and headlamp bezels
- Body-color bumpers
- Optional sport hood
- LED lighting and cloth bucket seats
These upgrades give the Express a more premium appearance and athletic feel without losing its affordability.
3) What are the available engine options for the Express?
Buyers can choose from three proven engines:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque – 305 hp / 269 lb-ft (standard)
- 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo I6 – 420 hp / 469 lb-ft (optional)
- 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque – 395 hp / 410 lb-ft (available)
All pair with Ram’s 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth and efficient power delivery.
4) What’s the towing capacity of the 2026 Ram 1500 Express?
When properly equipped, the Express can tow up to 11,610 lbs, giving it impressive capability for a value-focused trim.
5) What’s the payload capacity?
Depending on configuration, the 2026 Ram 1500 Express offers up to 2,360 lbs of payload capacity, making it ideal for tools, trailers, or recreational gear.
6) Does the Express come in 4×4?
Yes. The Express is available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, allowing buyers to choose based on performance and terrain needs.
7) What are the key exterior design features?
- Black grille surround and headlamp bezels
- Body-color bumpers
- Optional Sport Performance Hood
- LED daytime running lamps
- Minimal badging for a clean, modern look
These elements make the Express one of the most aggressive-looking trims in the 2026 Ram lineup.
8) What’s inside the Express?
The cabin emphasizes comfort and usability:
- Cloth bucket seats with full floor console
- Dark graphite interior accents
- Uconnect infotainment system with touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Available digital cluster and dual wireless charging pads
9) What safety and driver-assist features are offered?
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Path Detection
- Lane Keep Assist
- Rearview Camera (optional 360° surround view)
10) What technology comes standard?
Even as a mid-level trim, the Express includes Uconnect with smartphone integration, voice command features, and optional digital driver display upgrades — blending classic truck capability with modern tech.
11) How does the Express drive?
With its standard V6 and available turbo or V8 powertrains, the Express offers smooth city driving and confident highway acceleration. The eTorque mild-hybrid assist on V6 and V8 engines improves start/stop response and adds low-end torque.
12) What is the starting price of the 2026 Ram 1500 Express?
The Express starts around $44,495 (USD), including destination. Adding the Hurricane I6 or HEMI V8 increases pricing, but both deliver significant performance and towing upgrades.
13) Does the Express qualify for Ram’s new 10-year / 100,000-mile warranty?
Yes. All 2026 Ram 1500 models, including the Express, come with Ram’s class-leading 10-year / 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, ensuring long-term confidence and value.
14) How does the Express compare to competitors?
| Truck | Max HP | Max Towing | Starting Price | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ram 1500 Express | 420 (Hurricane) / 395 (HEMI) | 11,610 lbs | ~$44,495 | Best style-value balance |
| Ford F-150 STX | 400 | 13,500 lbs | ~$46,000 | Slightly higher towing |
| Chevy Silverado Custom | 355 | 13,300 lbs | ~$45,000 | Basic styling |
| Toyota Tundra SR5 | 389 | 12,000 lbs | ~$47,000 | Hybrid-only V6 |
| The Ram Express leads on design, affordability, and interior quality. |
15) What colors are available?
Available paint options include:
- Bright White
- Diamond Black
- Granite Crystal
- Billet Silver
- Canyon Lake (new earthy gray-green tone exclusive for 2026)
16) When will the 2026 Ram 1500 Express be available?
The Express is expected to arrive in late 2025 at U.S. dealerships, including Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, with pre-orders and early allocations available beforehand.
17) Who is the Express best suited for?
- Contractors / Tradespeople: Need a capable, stylish work truck.
- Families / Commuters: Want daily comfort and weekend versatility.
- First-Time Truck Buyers: Looking for value, reliability, and bold design.
18) Can I trade in my current vehicle?
Yes. Use the Value Your Trade tool at Simi Valley CDJR for an instant estimate and apply it toward your new 2026 Ram 1500 Express.
19) Does the Express offer financing or lease options?
Absolutely. You can apply through the Finance Center for fast approval and access to Ram incentives and special offers.
20) Where can I see or test drive the 2026 Ram 1500 Express?
Visit Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to explore available Express inventory and configurations.
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