Jones Ram - Which 2026 Ram 1500 engine is best for towing a camper around Bel Air, MD?
Choosing the right engine can make towing a camper feel easy rather than stressful, especially when weekend plans involve steep grades, crosswinds, or tight campground entrances. The 2026 Ram 1500 offers an appealing trio of engine options, and the best fit depends on your typical trailer weight, how often you tow, and how much headroom you want for future adventures.
Three engines headline the lineup: the legendary 3.6L Pentastar® V6, a pair of available 3.0L Hurricane engines, and the newly available 5.7L HEMI® V8. Each is engineered to deliver confident performance in different scenarios. If you tow occasionally and prioritize fuel-friendly daily driving, the Pentastar® V6 remains a reliable choice. If you tow more often or want stronger midrange torque for merging with a load, an available Hurricane engine offers that satisfying surge when you dip into the throttle. For drivers who regularly pull heavier campers or prefer the unmistakable character of a V8, the newly available 5.7L HEMI® V8 reasserts itself as a compelling, time-tested solution.
- Pentastar® V6: Smooth, proven, and well-suited to lighter trailers or mixed-use commuting
- Available 3.0L Hurricane engines: Modern torque delivery and balanced everyday performance
- Newly available 5.7L HEMI® V8: Classic V8 feel and confident grunt for heavier loads
Beyond engine choice, factor in the truck’s broader towing ecosystem. The 2026 model is the Most Technologically Advanced Ram 1500 Ever and offers The Most Available Towing Technology Features Ever Offered on Ram 1500. When equipped, you gain systems that help with hitch guidance, trailer views, and overall awareness. Combined with the chassis’ planted feel under load and the truck’s poised steering, these tools transform the towing experience from challenging to manageable, even on busier highways or narrow campground roads around Bel Air, MD.
Another critical piece is payload. Campers often mean gear—coolers, tools, bikes, and extra water. The Ram 1500’s robust maximum available payload capacity helps ensure you have margin for both tongue weight and cargo. When properly matched, the truck delivers up to 11,610 pounds of maximum available towing and up to 2,360 pounds of maximum available payload. Choosing the right configuration gives you surplus capability for peace of mind and flexibility for future upgrades to a larger trailer.
Finally, think about daily life. If your Ram 1500 doubles as a commuter or family vehicle, you may want the comfort and technology that make long hauls pleasant: supportive seats, available Uconnect® systems, and the quiet, refined ride that defines the Most Luxurious Ram 1500 Ever. These touches matter after a long day on the road and can make the difference between arriving tired and arriving ready.
Jones Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram can help you align engine output with your specific camper weight and route demands. Our team is committed to serving Essex, Perry Hall, and Bel Air with clear guidance, meaningful test routes, and build recommendations tuned to your lifestyle. Whether you’re a first-time tower or you pull a trailer every other weekend, we’ll help you put together a configuration that tows with confidence and drives comfortably the rest of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I size the engine to my camper?
Start with your trailer’s loaded weight and tongue weight, then compare those numbers to the truck’s towing and payload ratings for your chosen configuration. We can walk you through a proper match to ensure comfortable headroom.
Do I need special towing tech for a small camper?
While not required, available towing technology—such as enhanced camera views and hitch guidance—makes setup and maneuvering easier. It’s especially helpful in tight campgrounds or when backing into unfamiliar spots.
Is the V6 enough for occasional towing?
For lighter, occasional towing with more emphasis on weekday commuting, the Pentastar® V6 can be a smart fit. If you expect more frequent towing or heavier loads, consider an available Hurricane engine or the newly available 5.7L HEMI® V8.
Will the truck feel stable with a camper on the highway?
The chassis is tuned for stability, and the available driver-assist and towing features support awareness and control. Proper hitching, weight distribution, and tire inflation are also key to a composed highway feel.