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2026 Ram 1500 Towing Capacity And Capability
2026 Ram 1500 Towing Capacity at a Glance
- The 2026 Ram 1500 towing capacity ranges from 6,340 to 11,610 pounds.1
- Many factors go into your towing capacity, like engine, cab size, bed size, axle size, and GCWR package.
- The best possible configurations involve the 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo I-6, which consistently posts above 11,400 pounds of towing capacity1 across all 4x2 configurations.
- Towing safely is a breeze with standard and available technology, like the standard Trailer Sway Damping or the available Digital Tow Mirror.
- See how the 2026 Ram 1500 compares at our lot in Watertown, WI.
Take Advantage of the 2026 Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
Truck drivers and enthusiasts can haul heavy loads safely and confidently with the 2026 Ram 1500 towing capacity of 11,610 pounds when this vehicle is properly equipped. Thanks to standard Trailer Sway Damping, available technologies like Tow Mode or Trailer Auto Hitch Assist, and a variety of configurations that cover a wide range of towing and payload limits, a 2026 Ram 1500 in Watertown, WI, equips you with the tools you need for conquering a variety of tasks. At Kayser Chrysler Center of Watertown, you can get hands-on experience with this light-duty truck before you make a decision.
2026 Ram 1500 Towing Capacity Chart
| Max Towing Capacity (By Configuration)1 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Quad Cab | Crew Cab (5-ft, 7-in Bed) | Crew Cab (6-ft, 4-in Bed) |
| 3.6L V-6 | 8,130 lbs | 7,570 lbs | N/A |
| 3.0L I-6 | 11,610 lbs | 11,490 lbs | 11,420 lbs |
| 5.7L V-8 | N/A | 11,320 lbs | N/A |
| 3.0L H.O. I-6 | N/A | 9,240 lbs | 10,000 lbs |
What Is the Towing Capacity of a 2026 Ram 1500? Explained
As previously confirmed, the maximum towing capacity you may find within our Ram 1500 special offers is 11,610 pounds.1 There are a few factors that go into crafting this performance spec.
- Engine: The 3.0-liter twin-turbo I-6 powertrain tows the most of all engines, while the standard 3.6-liter V-6 handles the least.
- Axle Ratio: Generally, a higher axle ratio leads to better towing capacity.
- Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The higher this metric is, the more your Ram 1500 is designed to handle.
- Configuration: While a Quad Cab 4x2 with the 6-foot 4-inch bed provides the best towing capacity, it's not necessarily the only good hauler. For instance, the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 offers up to 11,320 pounds of towing ability with the more spacious Crew Cab and 5-foot-7-inch bed.
- Drivetrain: Generally, 4x2 models can tow more than 4x4 ones. However, 4x4 models offer increased handling and control.
What Are the Best Configurations for the 2026 Ram 1500 Towing Capacity?
If you want the Ram 1500 financing opportunities with the most versatility, here are our suggestions:
- Raw Towing Capacity: 11,610 pounds.1 Quad Cab 6-foot 4-inch bed, 3.92 axle ratio, 17,000-pound GCWR,2 3.0-liter twin-turbo I-6, 4x2.
- Best Towing Capacity With Crew Cab: 11,490 pounds.1 Crew Cab 5-foot 7-inch bed, 3.92 axle ratio, 17,000-pound GCWR,2 3.0-liter twin-turbo I-6, 4x2.
- Best Spacious Truck: 11,420 pounds.1 Crew Cab 6-foot 4-inch bed, 3.92 axle ratio, 17,000-pound GCWR,2 3.0-liter twin-turbo I-6, 4x2.
Safety Features for 2026 Ram 1500 Towing
These configurations matter a lot for tow capacity, but the 10 trim levels of the Ram 1500 matter in a different way. Ram trucks pride themselves on having an expansive list of available towing options for you to tow comfortably, no matter the load you carry. Here are just a few of the high-end conveniences available throughout the Ram 1500 lineup:
- Tow Drive Mode
- Integrated Trailer Health Monitor
- Trailer Reverse Guidance (with Dynamic Guidelines)
- Digital Rearview Mirror (with Tow Mode)
- Trailer Auto Hitch Assist
- Telescopic Trailer Tow Mirrors
Which Has the Best Towing Capacity: 2026 Ram 1500 vs. Last Year?
Finally, we end on a high note: While both years have similar towing technology, the 2026 Ram 1500 towing capacity is a step up from the previous iteration. In 2025, the highest Ram towing capacity was 11,550 pounds, with the same configuration as this year.1 That's a 60-pound increase for the top level, but 2025 does have the edge for the 4x4 Quad Cab 6-foot 4-inch configuration. Last year also had slightly higher tow specs outside the best, thanks in part to the HFE model offering extra flexibility for the 3.21 axle-ratio lineup. However, this year's Limited level can reach 10,000 pounds – unlike last year, when it reached 9,920 pounds.1
Those not looking for a 3.0-liter twin-turbo I-6 engine might like the 2026 for a returning powertrain: the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. This beast of a powertrain doesn't quite reach the heights of the Hurricane engine, but it still boasts a maximum towing capacity of 11,320 pounds with a Crew Cab. For a mid-level, non-turbocharged engine, the 2026 Ram 1500 is a must-try experience.
Explore the 2026 Ram 1500 Towing Capacity at Kayser Chrysler Center of Watertown
Ready to join the club of simple, effective towing? Our inventory of new Ram vehicles is ready for you to test out! We'll walk you through multiple models – from the standard Tradesman to the ultimate Tungsten – so you can see the balance of technology and capability yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does towing capacity vary by 2026 Ram 1500 trim level?
The towing capacity of the 2026 Ram 1500 can vary by trim level, though only insofar as available configurations and axle ratios. For example, the RHO and Limited trims using the 3.0-liter high-output twin-turbo I-6 have different towing limits: The RHO is only available with the 15,160-pound GCWR package2 and the 5-foot 7-inch bed, while the Limited is more flexible.
What features help improve the Ram 1500 towing performance?
A variety of standard and available technologies help improve the Ram 1500 towing performance. For example, the standard Tow Mode improves stability, control, and braking support by heightening traction. An available integrated Trailer Health Monitor connects to your trailer to provide an overview of your tire quality and balance on the road. Additional options, like a Digital Rearview Mirror and Trailer Auto Hitch Assist, further your towing confidence.
How does the 2026 Ram 1500 compare to other trucks in towing power?
Compared to other light-duty trucks, the Ram 1500 holds its own in towing capacity. It has less capacity than the Toyota Tundra, but more than the 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning. Its ability is supported by some of the best towing features available, including numerous driver assistance features (Tow Mode and the Digital Rearview Mirror, for example) that make towing straightforward and partially automated.
What's the payload capacity of the 2026 Ram 1500?
The payload capacity of the 2026 Ram 1500 depends on your configuration and engine. The maximum payload of the 2026 Ram 1500 is 2,360 pounds with the standard 3.6-liter V-6, Quad Cab, and 6-foot-4-inch bed.3 Other configurations stay below 2,000 pounds, with a minimum payload capacity of 1,390 pounds.3
1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2GCWR ratings assume vehicles are properly equipped with manufacturer-recommended towing setups. Actual weight capacities may vary.
3When properly equipped. Max payload ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload weights. Contact dealer for details.