Ram Overtook Jeep as Best-Selling Stellantis Brand
The truck maker saw a 29% sales surge in the third quarter of 2026 as demand for HEMI engines returned.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Trucks
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Ram became the top-selling Stellantis brand in America during the third quarter of 2026, driven by a 29% year-over-year sales increase. This growth contrasts with a 20% sales decline for Jeep during the same period.
Why it matters
The shift highlights a major change in buyer preference toward high-horsepower, internal-combustion engines over electric models. This pivot reflects a broader strategy shift under new leadership that prioritizes traditional truck performance.
Ram posted a 29% growth in the third quarter of 2026, while Alfa Romeo saw a 65% drop in sales. The base Ram 1500, now featuring HEMI power, saw a 73% increase in total sales.
The players
Ram
A manufacturer of pickup trucks and commercial vehicles known for its emphasis on high-performance engine technology.
Jeep
A prominent Stellantis brand focused on SUVs and off-road vehicles that experienced a 20% sales decline.
Matt VanDyke
The current CEO of Ram who succeeded Tim Kuniskis and implemented the current focus on internal combustion performance.
Tim Kuniskis
A veteran automotive executive who returned to the Ram leadership team in 2026.
The details
Under the direction of CEO Matt VanDyke, Ram revived the Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division to focus on raw, emotional power. The company reintroduced HEMI V8 engines to its lineup, successfully tapping into consumer demand for high-output internal combustion. This strategy departs from the previous corporate focus on electric vehicles.
Timeline
Tim Kuniskis returned to the Ram brand in 2026.
Ram sales grew by 29% during the third quarter of 2026.
New Rumble Bee truck variants are expected to hit the market in 2027.
The Home Front
Ram's recent sales growth marks a clear departure from the industry-wide push toward electric vehicle adoption. The brand is betting heavily on traditional high-horsepower combustion engines to capture market share.
If you are in the market for a high-performance truck, research the specific power outputs and pricing tiers of upcoming 2027 models. Prospective buyers should confirm local inventory availability for the current HEMI-powered lineup at their nearest dealership.
The takeaway
The return of HEMI V8 engines has significantly boosted Ram's market position against other Stellantis brands. Prospective owners should track release dates for the 777-horsepower Rumble Bee SRT, which is positioned as a top-tier performance option for the 2027 model year.
What happens next
The Rumble Bee 392, Rumble Bee Track Pack, and 777-horsepower 1500 Rumble Bee SRT are all scheduled to reach the market in 2027.
Further reading
Explore the latest developments in the Trucks market to see how manufacturers are updating their current lineups.
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Should automakers prioritize gas-powered engines over electric vehicles to drive sales?
