V8s are coming back!
Valerie Raskovic
Aug 05, 2025
As car enthusiasts, we always feel a bit down every time a cool V8 is replaced with a new, more efficient alternative. This has been the movement for years now. Manufacturers have been shrinking engines and replacing them with turbocharged alternatives; however, things may soon change. The rumble of the V8 is making a comeback and Stellantis is leading the charge. In a surprising turn for an industry heavily focused on electrification and efficiency, Stellantis confirmed in mid-2025 that it will reintroduce V8 engines in select upcoming models, including the Ram pickup and performance-oriented vehicles under the Dodge and Jeep brands. This announcement comes as a bold response to shifting consumer demand and evolving regulatory dynamics that are, ironically, making it easier for V8’s to return to showrooms.
As announced by Stellantis executives, a new generation of Mopar V8 powerplants will debut starting with the 2026 Ram 1500, which will feature a redesigned version of the beloved Hemi V8. This new engine is said to deliver increased efficiency while maintaining the iconic performance and sound that enthusiasts crave. This shift is mainly due to the rollback of stringent fuel economy and emissions regulations under the Trump administration in early 2025. The administration’s revised policy softened Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) targets and removed penalties for failing to meet electrification milestones—policies that had previously discouraged automakers from producing large displacement engines. With this regulatory pressure eased, brands like Ram and Dodge are seizing the opportunity to bring back the iconic V8 drivetrains that built their legacies.
Additionally, when attempting to substitute their traditionally 8-cylinder offerings with smaller engines like the Hurricane V6 or fully electric vehicles like the Dodge Charger EV, the company realized they were alienating their customer base. Stellantis clearly saw the writing on the wall; enthusiasts did not want an electric muscle car, just like truck buyers preferred a V8 power plant over the smaller, more restrictive alternatives. Needless to say, this was the only viable move the company could have taken as they saw sales for even their more popular vehicles plummet.
This shows that the consumer is not ready yet to say goodbye to the legendary V8. This type of engine configuration is revered for its reliability, power and torque at low RPM. The V8 is considered the ideal power plant for towing, agricultural applications, hauling large loads and off roading. Whether it is a GM LS, a Mopar Hemi or a Ford Coyote V8, this power plant has a very special place in the hearts of enthusiast and tradesman alike.
Industry analysts note that Stellantis isn’t alone when it comes to bringing back the V8 for its latest model vehicles. While Ford and GM remain committed to electrification, they too have signaled continued investment in V8 platforms for trucks and performance vehicles. But Stellantis appears most willing to embrace the internal combustion engine as a centerpiece of its brand identity. With emissions rules now relaxed and consumers pushing back against rising EV prices and limited infrastructure, the timing is perfect for a V8 revival. The golden age of muscle may not be over just yet. While politics and regulations change, it is important to keep in mind it is very likely that stringent environmental mandates may be reintroduced sometime in the near future.
As car enthusiasts we will always love the rumble of the almighty V8 engine; however, it is important to take account of the vital global impact of fossil fuels, from climate change to economic factors. The car industry as a whole will continue to prefer more efficient, practical and cost-effective solutions; however, it is nice knowing at least for the time being we do not have to say goodbye to our beloved V8.
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