Date Published: February 19, 2026 | Last Modified: 1 hour ago | 3 minute read | Verified by Mitchell Bazinet at Redwater Dodge

The Battle of the Mountains: RAM 1500 Hurricane vS. 5.7L Hemi

Which RAM engine is better for towing at high altitudes?

The Altitude Tax: Why Naturally Aspirated Engines Struggle

Traditional engines like the 5.7L Hemi are "naturally aspirated," meaning they rely on atmospheric pressure to pull air into the cylinders. As you climb into the mountains, the air becomes thinner and oxygen levels drop. A standard rule of thumb is that a non-turbo engine loses approximately 3% of its power for every 1,000 feet of elevation. By the time you’re crossing a mountain pass at 10,000 feet, your 395-horsepower Hemi could be effectively operating at nearly 30% less power. This can make the truck feel "softer" or less responsive when trying to maintain speed with a heavy trailer in tow.

The Hurricane Advantage: Boost is the Great Equalizer

The Hurricane engine is a twin-turbocharged powerhouse. Unlike the Hemi, the Hurricane’s turbos can force more air into the engine, compensating for the thin mountain air. This allows the Hurricane to hold its power much more effectively as you climb. For drivers in mountainous regions, the Hurricane typically offers a stronger, more consistent pull regardless of the elevation.

The Trade-Off: Heat, Gearing, and Long-Term Reliability

While the Hurricane wins on sheer altitude performance, it isn’t without trade-offs. More boost means more heat. When pulling hard uphill, the engine generates significant thermal load. To get the best out of the Hurricane, it must be properly optioned with the correct axle ratio, tow package, and cooling systems. 

Furthermore, the Hemi remains the choice for the "long-haul" owner. It is a proven motor with a legendary track record. For owners who plan to keep their trucks for decades and value mechanical simplicity over complex turbo setups, the Hemi still makes a formidable case.

Fuel Economy: Cruising vs. Towing

Don’t expect miracles at the pump when the trailer is attached. While the Hurricane is more efficient during light cruising, both engines will "drink" under heavy load. When the Hurricane is in high boost for extended periods, its MPG can drop rapidly. The Hemi, by contrast, is predictable, it will work hard and use fuel at a consistent, well-known rate.

Ram 1500 Engine Specifications

The Verdict

If your priority is a stronger pull and better performance at altitude, the Hurricane is the clear winner. If you value simplicity and a long, proven track record, the 5.7L Hemi remains a classic for a reason.

Additional Questions & Answers

Q1. Does the Hurricane engine require premium fuel for towing?

A1. While the Hurricane can run on mid-grade, premium fuel is recommended during heavy towing to optimize performance and protect the engine under high-boost conditions.

Q2. Can I retrofit my 5.7L Hemi with extra cooling for mountain towing?

A2. While you can upgrade certain components, the best way to ensure performance is to purchase a truck with the factory-installed Max Tow Package, which includes optimized gearing and enhanced cooling.

Q3. Is the Hurricane engine "proven" for heavy-duty work?

A3. Though newer to the Ram 1500, the Hurricane architecture has undergone millions of miles of testing and has already seen success in other high-output Stellantis vehicles like the Jeep Wagoneer.