2026 Ram 1500 Express near Greenville, SC

The 2026 Ram 1500 Express returns to the lineup as a functionally focused full-size pickup engineered for users who require durability, utility, and performance in a simplified format. It builds upon the foundational qualities expected from Ram trucks and concentrates on essential systems without extensive customization or premium options. The model is based on the fourth-generation platform and is designed to deliver balanced capability with straightforward usability. This configuration of the Ram 1500 reintroduces a purpose-built approach, favoring mechanical strength and proven architecture over luxury design or niche applications. It is configured to support personal and light-duty commercial applications, offering robust towing, reliable power, and essential connectivity options.

Powertrain and Transmission

The 2026 Ram 1500 Express is powered by the 3.6-liter Pentastar® V6 engine. This unit produces 305 horsepower. The truck is available in two drivetrain formats. The rear-wheel-drive configuration supports efficient performance on paved roads and light-duty haulage. The available four-wheel-drive option includes an electronically controlled transfer case and adds versatility on unpaved surfaces or during seasonal conditions. Both versions integrate with a coil-spring rear suspension system, which is engineered to provide improved stability compared to conventional leaf spring setups.

The 2026 Ram 1500 Express model retains mechanical simplicity, omitting adaptive suspension or air ride features, focusing instead on durability and serviceability. The front suspension features upper and lower control arms with coil-over shock absorbers, while the rear is equipped with a solid axle and five-link coil springs. This layout is intended for consistent handling under load and reduced lateral movement during turns or towing.

Exterior Structure and Functional Design

The 2026 Ram 1500 Express applies a utilitarian design language. The exterior is configured with body-colored bumpers and a grille, and the black hex-link insert at the front reinforces a clean yet aggressive appearance. Lighting is handled by quad halogen headlamps with automatic functionality, which reduces the need for driver input in changing visibility conditions.

The model rides on 20-inch aluminum wheels as standard. These are paired with all-season tires designed for light off-road use while maintaining acceptable on-road comfort and control. The truck bed features a spray-in bedliner and multiple tie-down loops integrated into the load box structure. These components increase durability during repeated cargo loading and unloading. Optional equipment such as trailer tow mirrors and a Class IV receiver hitch can be added to expand the vehicle's hauling utility.

Door handles and mirror housings are matched to the body color. Side windows and rear glass are tinted to provide some passive heat rejection and cabin privacy. Overall, the exterior equipment and configuration prioritize durability, simplicity, and straightforward service access.

Interior and Functional Cabin Layout

The interior of the 2026 Ram 1500 Express is designed with function as the main objective. The front seating configuration is a 40/20/40 split bench layout, accommodating up to three passengers in the front row. Manual lumbar support is included for the driver. The rear bench provides additional seating for three and folds up to allow internal storage for tools or equipment.

Cabin materials include standard cloth upholstery and molded plastic trim panels intended for easy cleaning and reduced wear. Storage is supported through a fold-flat rear seat system and under-seat storage compartments in the back row. The center seat in the front can be used as an armrest with built-in cup holders when not occupied.

Towing Capacity and Payload Capabilities

The 2026 Ram 1500 Express is engineered to manage substantial towing and payload requirements without extensive calibration. The standard towing capacity is rated up to 11,550 pounds, depending on configuration and equipment. 

A seven-pin wiring harness and integrated trailer brake controller are available as add-ons. These features allow the truck to operate with electric trailer brake systems, enabling safer deceleration during towing. The rear bumper is equipped with a step pad and license plate illumination, both of which assist when connecting trailer equipment.

Safety Systems and Passive Security Features

Safety features for the 2026 Ram 1500 Express are consistent with full-size truck standards. The cabin includes advanced multistage front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and full-length side-curtain airbags. These deploy based on sensor input to reduce injury during collisions involving the front or side sections of the cabin.

The electronic stability control system combines traction control and anti-lock brake features with roll mitigation and trailer sway control. The vehicle's body includes crumple zones and reinforced side-impact beams. In rear-facing visibility situations, the truck uses a ParkView rear backup camera integrated into the tailgate.

Optional safety features include ParkSense® rear park assist, which provides audible alerts based on proximity to rear obstacles. A security alarm system can also be added, and remote keyless entry is standard across builds.

Technology and Communication

The Uconnect® 3 infotainment system provides basic connectivity with access to media through USB, auxiliary, and Bluetooth®. Phone calls and audio streaming are supported through hands-free voice input. The optional Uconnect® 5 system includes higher processing speeds, expanded application compatibility, and greater screen resolution. Both systems integrate with the truck's instrument cluster, which includes a digital information display flanked by analog gauges for speed, fuel level, and engine temperature.

Connectivity ports are located in the center console and are accessible to both front and rear occupants. Charging is available through multiple USB Type-A ports, but wireless charging and advanced driver-assist features are not included in this model.

Interior lighting is dome-style and manually operated. A 12-volt auxiliary power outlet is also located in the front console area for accessory equipment.

Practical Storage and Cabin Utility

Cargo management inside the 2026 Ram 1500 Express is handled through configurable seat layouts and integrated compartments. The front center seat folds down to reveal a storage tray and additional cup holders. Rear seats fold up in a single motion to open the floor space beneath. The under-seat storage bin runs across the width of the cabin and is ideal for small tools or electronics.

The truck bed is a standard-size load box with a sprayed-in liner, corner tie-downs, and available tonneau cover options. No powered tailgate or side storage boxes are included. The configuration is designed to provide flat surface capacity with minimal protrusions or wasted space.

Schedule a Test Drive near Greenville, SC

Get a closer look at how the 2026 Ram 1500 Express handles real-world demands through its powertrain and utility features. Schedule a test drive at McKinney Chrysler Dodge Jeep® & Ram near Greenville, SC, to evaluate the performance of the Pentastar® V6 engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, and trailer-ready systems. The session also gives you access to the Uconnect® interface and cabin layout to assess day-to-day usability. During your visit, explore how the truck's mechanical and digital systems support practical tasks. This firsthand review helps determine how well the 2026 Ram 1500 Express meets your specific performance and work needs.