2026 Ram 1500 Express Revealed with Lower Starting Price of $44,495
Ram is back with a budget-friendly yet stylish offering—the 2026 Ram 1500 Express. Designed to fill the gap between the entry-level Tradesman and the pricier Big Horn, this trim brings affordability and flair to the full-size pickup segment. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting addition to Ram’s lineup.
Ram’s CEO, Tim Kuniskis, admitted that the 2025 model’s rollout didn’t go as planned, with affordable trims being scarce. That’s where the 2026 Ram 1500 Express steps in—it’s a well-priced alternative that caters to buyers who want a sleek, monochromatic design without breaking the bank.
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Available in five exterior colors—Bright White, Granite Crystal, Forged Blue, Hydro Blue, and Diamond Black—this truck features body-colored bumpers, a black grille surround, and 20-inch wheels. Most badges have been removed, giving it a clean, modern look.
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Price Breakdown: How Much Does the 2026 Ram 1500 Express Cost?
One of the biggest highlights of this model is its affordability. Here’s how the pricing stacks up, including the destination charge:
| Model/Trim | Price |
| 1500 Express Quad Cab 2WD | $44,495 |
| 1500 Express Crew Cab 2WD | $47,245 |
| 1500 Express Quad Cab 4WD | $48,345 |
| 1500 Express Crew Cab 4WD | $51,095 |
While not the absolute cheapest trim in Ram’s lineup (that honor belongs to the Tradesman), the Express strikes a balance between affordability and style, offering significantly more refinement than base-level work trucks.
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E2026 Ram 1500 Express Engine & Performance
The base 2026 Ram 1500 Express comes equipped with a 305-horsepower 3.6-liter V6, but buyers can upgrade to the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six for an extra $1,695, bringing the total price to $46,190. With 420 horsepower, this upgraded powertrain delivers strong performance without excessive costs.
Additionally, the Express trim packs several driver-assist features such as: Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping Assist, and Rear Cross-Path Detection.
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Introducing the Black Express Package
For those looking for a darker, sportier aesthetic, Ram is reviving the Black Express package. Last seen in 2019, this $995 upgrade offers Blacked-out wheels and badges, a Sport hood and side steps, LED driving lamps, and Interior upgrades, including cloth bucket seats and a floor console.This package gives the truck a rugged yet sophisticated vibe, making it a great choice for drivers who want a more aggressive look.
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Ram has officially opened order banks for the 2026 Ram 1500 Express, with first deliveries expected later in the summer. Whether you’re looking for an affordable work truck or a stylish daily driver, this trim level offers impressive value without sacrificing design or performance.
