Matthew Sessoms Ram - Choosing the Right 2026 RAM 1500 Setup for Wilson, NC, Hauls and Weekends
When a truck works hard and still feels relaxing after a long day, you notice. That balance is why the 2026 RAM 1500 continues to win over drivers who split their time between jobsite demands and weekend plans around Wilson, NC. The engine lineup covers a wide range of needs — from the returning 5.7L HEMI® V8 to two available 3.0L Hurricane engines and the proven 3.6L Pentastar® V6 — and the towing technology suite is deeper than ever. Selecting the right combination is easier when you think through your typical cargo, trailer weight, and terrain before you build. Below, we share a straightforward path to get it right the first time.
The biggest early decision is power. The Hurricane engines supply modern punch and confident torque for towing, the HEMI® V8 brings a time-honored feel many truck owners love, and the Pentastar® V6 delivers a practical balance of smoothness and strength. From there, consider the trim that matches your drive cycle. If you spend more time on trails, the Rebel® hardware makes a compelling case. If stealthy street style is your aim, the Black Express Edition offers a coordinated, blacked-out presence with functional upgrades. On the inside, Uconnect® Systems anchor navigation, trailer guidance, and media, while the model family’s 50+ combined available digital displays help you keep key information in view without clutter. At Matthew Sessoms Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, serving Windsor, Plymouth, and Wilson, our team will walk you through how each configuration translates into daily confidence on the road and under load.
We also recommend a short checklist before your build, focusing on your most frequent tasks instead of the once-a-year trip. This approach helps ensure the truck feels effortless every week of the year.
- Main trailer weight: Know the typical loaded weight you plan to tow, not just the empty trailer rating.
- Cargo habits: Consider whether payload is tools and materials daily or occasional gear for weekend projects.
- Terrain profile: Factor in hills, soft surfaces, and gravel where extra torque and traction matter.
- Visibility needs: Decide which camera views and displays help most when backing, hitching, and merging.
- Cab usage: Think about rear-seat time for coworkers, kids, or pets to guide your cab and seat choices.
Once you have your baseline, pairing engine and axle ratio becomes simpler. Heavier, boxier trailers benefit from stronger torque and the right gearing to maintain speed on grades. If you rarely tow at the upper end of the range, a broader balance of efficiency and responsiveness may be the better fit. For those who split time between work routes and trailheads, the Rebel® setup’s ride height and tire package help protect the underbody while preserving steering precision on pavement.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which engine should I choose if I tow on weekends and commute daily?
Consider an available 3.0L Hurricane engine if you want robust torque and decisive passing power without overbuilding for daily commuting. If you prefer classic V8 character and responsiveness, the returning 5.7L HEMI® V8 is a confident choice, while the 3.6L Pentastar® V6 offers a smooth, practical balance for lighter towing and mixed driving.
Is the Black Express Edition only about style?
Style is a highlight, but it brings useful elements too — 20-Inch Black Aluminum Wheels add a planted stance, body color bumpers, and the Sport Performance Hood streamline the look, and Mopar® Black Tubular Side Steps improve cab access. It is a cohesive package that looks sharp and adds everyday convenience.
How do the 50+ combined available digital displays help with towing?
They allow you to position key data where it is most useful — trailer information, guidance prompts, and camera views can be arranged for quick glances, reducing guesswork when hitching, merging, or backing into tight spaces.
What should I consider for occasional off-roading around Wilson, NC?
Prioritize traction, protection, and visibility. The Rebel® configuration’s off-road tuning, tire choice, and ground clearance provide confidence on soft or rocky surfaces, while camera views and Uconnect® interfaces help you read the terrain and place the truck precisely.
If you would like a walk-through tailored to your trailer and routes, bring your details — typical load, cargo, and road conditions — and we will map your ideal setup. Our goal is simple: a truck that feels surefooted with a trailer, calm on your commute, and ready to go when the weekend calls. The 2026 model range makes that possible by pairing a broad engine roster with strong chassis tuning and deep technology. With a clear plan and a hands-on test drive, you can be confident your configuration will feel right immediately and for years to come.