If you need a no‑nonsense heavy-duty truck that earns its keep day after day, the 2026 Ram 5500 is the kind of rig you buy once and brag about for years. Whether you’re hauling a loaded trailer, running a service body with a crane, or upfitting a flatbed for farm work, this truck is built to hustle. Below, you’ll find an easy, straight‑shooting breakdown of the 2026 Ram 5500 price, specs, colors, interior details, powertrain and efficiency, release timing, and the smartest way to shop for a 2026 Ram 5500 for sale. Let’s roll.
As of publication, Ram hasn’t released full official details for the 2026 model year Ram 5500. What follows reflects current Ram 4500/5500 trends and likely carryovers, plus reasonable estimates. Always confirm final specs, colors, and pricing with your dealer or Ram’s official site before signing on the dotted line.
Why the Ram 5500 matters
- Serious work capability without jumping to a medium-duty brand
- Ideal for upfits: service body, flatbed, dump, utility crane, box, ambulance, tow, and snowplow
- Big‑rig attitude with a cabin you can live in all day
- Wide dealer network, broad parts availability, and strong upfitter support
2026 Ram 5500 release date
- Typical pattern: Ram chassis-cab order banks usually open late summer to early fall for the upcoming model year, with first deliveries following in late fall through early winter.
- Our estimate: Look for 2026 Ram 5500 order availability to begin in late 2025, with first trucks landing late 2025 to early 2026 depending on configuration and upfit scheduling.
- Tip: If you need a specific cab-to-axle length, gear ratio, or factory PTO, talk to your dealer early. Allocation and parts supply can stretch timelines.
2026 Ram 5500 specs
The Ram 5500 is a true medium‑duty‑leaning chassis cab, built for payload and towing with a stout frame and heavy‑duty driveline options.
| Category | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Configurations | Regular Cab or Crew Cab; 4×2 or 4×4 |
| Cab-to-Axle (CA) options | 60″, 84″, 108″, 120″ (varies by cab) |
| Engines | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I‑6; 6.4L HEMI V8 gas (carryover likely) |
| Transmissions | Aisin heavy-duty 6‑speed auto (diesel); 8‑speed auto (gas) |
| Power (est.) | Diesel: ~360 hp/800 lb‑ft; Gas: ~370 hp/429 lb‑ft (carryover figures) |
| Max GVWR | Up to ~19,500 lbs (select configs) |
| GCWR | Up to ~43,000 lbs (diesel, properly configured) |
| Max conventional towing | Mid‑30,000‑lb range (diesel, properly equipped) |
| Payload | Roughly 9,000–12,000+ lbs depending on CA and spec |
| Axle ratios (typical) | 4.44, 4.88 (varies by engine/use case) |
| Frame | High‑strength steel, straight C‑channel, upfitter‑friendly |
| PTO availability | Yes (diesel/Aisin most common), upfitter switches available |
| Electrical | High‑output alternators; dual‑battery setups available |
| Tech | Uconnect 5 infotainment, available 12″ screen, telematics fleet tools |
Notes:
- EPA does not rate fuel economy for vehicles over 8,500 lbs GVWR, so MPG is not published. Real‑world efficiency varies widely by load and duty cycle.
- Specs vary wildly based on wheelbase, CA, axle ratio, and equipment. Always check the door sticker and build sheet.
2026 Ram 5500 powertrain and efficiency
If you’re buying a 5500, you care about uptime, pulling power, and running costs. Here’s how the likely engines shake out.
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I‑6 (expected to return)
- Why it’s the go‑to: Mountains of torque, proven longevity, PTO support, strong GCWR.
- Power: Expect a tune around 360 hp and 800 lb‑ft (carryover figure typical for the 4500/5500 series).
- Transmission: Aisin heavy-duty 6‑speed automatic designed for commercial loads.
- DEF and emissions: DEF usage typically 2–3% of diesel consumption in steady‑state cruising. Regens occur as needed; good highway cycles help.
- Real‑world fuel use: Empty or lightly loaded highway can see low‑ to mid‑teens MPG; under heavy load or stop‑and‑go, expect single digits to low teens. Results vary by gearing and duty cycle.
- Best for: Heavy tow/haul, PTO‑driven equipment, high annual miles, hilly routes.
6.4L HEMI V8 gas (likely carryover; watch for any Hurricane inline‑6 developments)
- Why choose gas: Lower upfront cost, simpler emissions hardware, easier cold‑weather starts, great for shorter routes or predictable daily loads.
- Power: Around 370 hp and 429 lb‑ft (recent Ram chassis‑cab figures).
- Transmission: 8‑speed automatic (smooth, keeps the HEMI in the power band).
- Real‑world fuel use: Typically mid‑ to high‑single digits under load, low‑teens unloaded highway. Again, duty cycle rules the day.
- Best for: Budget‑minded fleets, municipal work, snowbelt plow trucks, and upfits with predictable daily mileage.
Efficiency tips that actually help
- Gear it right: If you mostly pull heavy, the deeper 4.88 axle ratio helps keep the engine in its sweet spot.
- Keep tires in check: Proper commercial‑grade tires, correct PSI, and alignment save fuel and reduce downtime.
- Spec the right CA: Don’t overbuild. The correct cab‑to‑axle length avoids unnecessary weight and drag.
- Idle smart: Use PTO and idle control features instead of free‑revving; consider high‑output alternators to reduce idle hours for electrical loads.
- Record and review: Telematics pays off—monitor routes, idle time, and driver habits.
2026 Ram 5500 interior
You may spend more hours in the cab than your office. Ram tends to deliver a comfortable, quiet, and durable cabin in the 4500/5500 series, and we expect more of that for 2026.
- Seats that last: Heavy‑duty vinyl or cloth that cleans up quickly; available power‑adjust and heating for long, cold mornings.
- Smart storage: Deep center bin, dash cubbies, under‑seat storage (Crew Cab), and big door pockets for clipboards, gloves, and handhelds.
- Tech that matters: Uconnect 5 with standard touchscreen (expect 8.4″) and an available 12″ display on higher trims. Wireless smartphone mirroring has been rolling out; confirm final 2026 availability.
- Work‑friendly controls: Big knobs and buttons you can operate with gloves, physical climate controls, easy PTO and upfitter switch placement.
- Noise control: Ram’s heavy‑duty cabs are generally quiet for the class—less fatigue over long shifts.
2026 RAM 5500 Likely trims and vibe
- Tradesman: Rubber floors, durable seats, just the essentials done right.
- SLT: Adds comfort and convenience features—often the sweet spot for crews.
- Laramie (availability varies): Leather, bigger screens, premium audio, driver‑assist upgrades—nice for owner‑operators.
2026 Ram 5500 colors
Commercial buyers usually want practical colors that hide grime and look sharp with decals. Expect a palette similar to recent years.
| Color family | Typical finish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bright White | Gloss | Fleet favorite; easy to wrap or letter |
| Diamond Black | Pearl | Sleek; shows dirt more but looks premium |
| Billet Silver | Metallic | Hides dust, looks clean between washes |
| Granite Crystal | Metallic | Dark gray that pairs well with black upfits |
| Flame Red | Gloss | Bold and visible; popular with municipal fleets |
| Hydro Blue | Pearl/Metallic | High‑visibility; stands out for service trucks |
| Delmonico/Deep Red | Pearl/Metallic | Rich hue for premium builds |
Pro tip: If your business uses vinyl wrap, ask your upfitter if specific finishes (gloss vs. matte) adhere better to certain paints and how heat affects removal.
2026 Ram 5500 price
Official 2026 pricing isn’t posted yet, but here’s a realistic range based on current trends, inflation, and typical equipment.
| Configuration | Estimated starting price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tradesman Regular Cab 4×2 Gas (shorter CA) | Low–mid $60,000s | Entry point for basic upfits |
| Tradesman Regular Cab 4×4 Gas | Add ~$3,500–$4,500 | Snow states, jobsite access |
| Tradesman Regular Cab 4×2 Diesel | Add ~$9,000–$12,000 over gas | Diesel premium varies by year |
| Crew Cab upgrade | Add ~$3,500–$5,500 | More seating, slightly higher curb weight |
| Longer CA/wheelbase | Add ~$700–$1,500 steps | Varies by length and axle |
| Laramie (if offered) | Mid‑$70Ks to $80K+ before upfit | Premium interior/tech |
| Popular packages | $750–$3,500 each | Cold Weather, Safety, Tech, PTO, Snowplow |
| Fully kitted fleet build (pre‑upfit) | $80K–$95K+ | Diesel 4×4, Crew, PTO, safety tech |
Remember: These are truck‑only numbers. Your upfit (service body, dump, crane, flatbed, box, lighting, racks) can add $8K to $40K+ depending on complexity.
2026 Ram 5500 pricing, options, and packages
What buyers usually add
- Snowplow Prep: Heavier front springs, wiring, and plow‑friendly cooling.
- Power Take‑Off (PTO): For hydraulic pumps, winches, and specialty equipment.
- Alternators/Batteries: High‑output alternators (e.g., up to 440 amps on diesel) and dual batteries for PTO and lighting loads.
- Safety Tech: Adaptive cruise, blind‑spot for upfitted bodies, 360° camera, parking sensors.
- Cold Weather Group: Heated seats/steering wheel, heated mirrors, remote start—worth it if you plow or work pre‑dawn winters.
- Tow Tech: Integrated trailer brake controller, trailer tire‑pressure monitoring, tow mirrors, camera provisions.
- Interior Upgrades: Uconnect 5 with 12″ screen, premium audio, additional USBs, fleet telematics.
Choosing the right cab‑to‑axle (CA) length
Your upfit body length and weight distribution depend on the CA. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
CA length vs. common body fits
| Cab-to-Axle (CA) | Typical body length | Common upfits |
|---|---|---|
| 60″ CA | ~9–10 ft | Short flatbed, small service body |
| 84″ CA | ~11–12 ft | Standard service body, stake bed |
| 108″ CA | ~14 ft | Long service/dump, utility crane body |
| 120″ CA | ~16 ft | Box/van body, longer flatbed |
Always check with your upfitter for weight distribution, axle ratings, and frame‑drilling policies. The right CA prevents overloads and keeps handling predictable.
2026 Ram 5500 for sale: how to shop like a pro
You’re not just buying a truck—you’re buying uptime. Here’s a simple plan to get the right 2026 Ram 5500 at the right number.
Step‑by‑step game plan
- Lock your spec on paper first
- Payload, towing, CA length, body type, PTO needs, axle ratio, 4×2 vs. 4×4, cab style.
- Decide gas vs. diesel based on duty cycle and upfit requirements.
- Talk to the upfitter early
- The upfit may dictate CA length, frame drills, and PTO needs. Nail this down before you order the chassis.
- Get pre‑approved (and compare)
- Credit union, bank, and dealer financing—know your rate and terms before negotiating.
- Price the whole build, not just the truck
- Quote the chassis, the body, installation, lighting, racks, and lead times. Ask about bundled pricing.
- Watch order banks and allocation
- Ask your dealer when 2026 order banks open. Get on an allocation list—especially for diesel 4×4 Crew Cabs with specific CAs.
- Negotiate the out‑the‑door number
- Focus on total cost including doc, destination, and any upfitter coordination fees. Rebate programs may exist for small businesses and fleets.
- Consider Section 179/bonus depreciation
- Many businesses can deduct a big chunk of qualifying equipment. Talk to your CPA about Section 179 and bonus depreciation limits and timing.
- Plan for downtime
- Schedule the upfit install and any graphics/wrap work right after delivery. Ask about loaners or rentals if you have to keep working during install.
Who should choose the 5500 vs. a 3500 or 4500?
- Pick 5500 if: You’re consistently maxing out payload/towing, using heavy PTO gear, or running long bodies (14–16 ft). It’s the “get serious” pick.
- Consider 4500 if: You want a lighter chassis but still need commercial capability with lower upfit costs.
- Consider 3500 if: You’re towing heavy occasionally but don’t need the straight‑rail frame or CA flexibility of a chassis cab.
Safety and driver assistance
Even work trucks deserve modern safety tech. Expect availability of:
- Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
- Lane keep assist and lane departure warning (availability varies by trim)
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind‑spot monitoring with trailer coverage and upfit‑body calibration
- 360° surround‑view camera and parking sensors
- Trailer tire‑pressure monitoring and camera wiring provisions
Fleet and telematics tools
- Ram’s Uconnect 5 typically supports over‑the‑air updates and integrates with telematics solutions.
- Look for maintenance tracking, driver scorecards, route optimization, and remote diagnostics to cut downtime.
What we know vs. what we’re watching
- Likely carryovers: Cummins diesel/Aisin combo; 6.4L HEMI gas; CA options; upfitter‑friendly frame; high‑output alternators; PTO.
- Watching closely: Any transition of the gas engine to Stellantis’s Hurricane inline‑6 in heavy chassis cabs; expanded driver‑assist availability; price changes tied to emissions or supply chain shifts.
Real‑world ownership tips
- Keep spare parts on hand: Belts, filters, DEF, winter blades—small stuff avoids big delays.
- Train the team: Proper hitching, load securement, tire checks, and regen awareness add years to a truck.
- Document everything: Mileage, idle time, payload/tow logs. It makes warranty and resale simpler.
- Mind the scales: Verify loaded axle weights at a CAT scale after the upfit. Adjust where needed.
FAQ/Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2026 Ram 5500 price?
Expect an entry in the low‑ to mid‑$60Ks for a gas, 4×2 Regular Cab before upfit. Diesel, 4×4, Crew Cab, longer CA, and premium trims can push you into the $80Ks–$90Ks before the body. Confirm final MSRPs with your dealer.
What are the 2026 Ram 5500 specs?
Anticipate Regular or Crew Cab, 4×2 or 4×4, multiple CA lengths (60″/84″/108″/120″), 6.7L Cummins diesel with an Aisin 6‑speed, 6.4L HEMI gas with an 8‑speed, GVWR up to around 19,500 lbs, and GCWR up to roughly 43,000 lbs when properly spec’d.
what is the 2026 Ram 5500 powertrain and efficiency.
Diesel delivers big torque and best heavy‑haul efficiency, especially on highway routes; gas keeps purchase price lower and simplifies emissions hardware. MPG isn’t EPA‑rated for this class; real‑world numbers depend heavily on load and gearing.
What’s inside the 2026 Ram 5500 interior?
Durable materials, roomy cabs, glove‑friendly controls, and Uconnect 5 infotainment (expect an 8.4″ screen standard with an available 12″). Tradesman is all‑business; SLT and Laramie (if offered) add comfort and tech.
What are the 2026 Ram 5500 colors?
Plan on work‑ready whites, silvers, grays, and blacks, plus bold reds and blues. Exact paint names will be confirmed at launch.
When is the 2026 Ram 5500 release date?
Estimated late 2025 for order banks and initial deliveries, with wider availability into early 2026. Upfit timelines can extend delivery to your jobsite.
How do I find a 2026 Ram 5500 for sale?
Start with Ram’s inventory tool and contact commercial sales managers at multiple dealerships. Ask specifically about CA availability, PTO prep, and allocation. Line up your upfitter early.
What about 2026 Ram 5500 pricing options and packages?
Expect Snowplow Prep, Cold Weather, Safety/Driver Assist, Tow Tech, high‑output alternators/dual batteries, and PTO options. Package names and contents can shift each year—confirm your build sheet.
If your business needs serious capability with a truck that’s built to take a beating and keep on billing hours, the 2026 Ram 5500 belongs on your shortlist. Spec it smart—right engine, right CA, right gearing—and you’ll have a rig that pays for itself in short order. Keep an eye on order banks late in 2025, work closely with your upfitter, and zero in on the out‑the‑door number for the chassis and the body. Do that, and you’ll have one tough truck earning its keep for years.
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