The Ram 1500 with the 5.7-liter Hemi generally ships with an 8-speed automatic transmission in contemporary models, specifically the TorqueFlite 8HP70. Older model years used 5- or 6-speed automatics depending on the generation.
As Ram evolved the line, the transmission pairing shifted to improve efficiency and towing performance. The 8-speed setup became common from the mid-2010s onward, and a mild-hybrid eTorque system was introduced on select trims around 2018 to boost low-end torque and start-off efficiency.
Historical timeline of transmissions tied to the 5.7 Hemi Ram 1500
Here's a concise timeline of the primary transmissions used behind the 5.7 Hemi in the Ram 1500, noting that availability varied by year, trim, and market.
- Late 2000s to early 2010s: 5-speed automatic (545RFE) commonly paired with the 5.7 Hemi
- Early to mid-2010s: 6-speed automatic (68RFE) became more common on many 5.7 Hemi Rams
- 2014 onward: 8-speed automatic (TorqueFlite 8HP70) became standard for most 5.7 Hemi Rams, with the eTorque mild-hybrid system appearing on several trims starting around 2018
In practice, buyers should verify the exact transmission by model year and trim, since some early 2014 models used the 8HP70 while others with different drivetrains might differ. The transition to the 8-speed brought improved fuel efficiency and smoother shifting, while the eTorque system added a mild-hybrid assist for certain configurations.
Current setup and notable features
Today, the standard setup for the Ram 1500 with the 5.7 Hemi is the TorqueFlite 8HP70 eight-speed automatic. The introduction of the eTorque mild-hybrid system on select trims provides smoother idle and additional low-end torque, particularly in towing or acceleration from a stop. The 8-speed configuration generally supports better highway fuel economy and refined shifting compared with older 5- or 6-speed designs.
Practical considerations for owners
For owners, the main takeaways are to follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule for automatic transmission fluid changes and to ensure the transmission software is up to date via dealership service. These factors can influence shifting quality and overall reliability.
Summary
The Ram 1500’s transmission history for the 5.7-liter Hemi shows a progression from early 5-speed automatics to a mature 8-speed layout. The current standard is the TorqueFlite 8HP70, with the optional eTorque mild-hybrid system on select trims since 2018. This evolution mirrors broader industry shifts toward more gears for efficiency and smoother performance, while preserving the V8’s towing and acceleration capabilities.