RAM EcoDiesel vs HEMI V8: Which Engine is Best for Canadian Drivers?
RAM EcoDiesel vs HEMI V8: Which Engine is Best for Canadian Drivers?
Posted on October 26, 2025
Choosing the right engine for your truck can be tough. In Canada, where the roads shift from smooth highways to snowy hills in no time, you want power but also something that saves fuel on long drives. Many drivers come in asking about the difference between the RAM EcoDiesel and the HEMI V8. Both are well known, both are strong, and both have their own style. Let’s walk through what each one brings and see which fits better for your kind of driving.
Ram EcoDiesel
The EcoDiesel is all about pulling strong while keeping fuel use low. It comes with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine that makes around 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. That torque kicks in early, which makes towing feel smooth and steady, even on cold mornings in places like northern Ontario. It can tow up to about 12,560 lbs and haul a payload close to 2,000 lbs. On long highway runs from Ajax to Ottawa, it uses around 9.0 L/100 km, which is much less than what most big trucks sip.
Inside, the EcoDiesel is quieter than you would expect from a diesel. It hums gently when idling, which makes road trips feel calm. The strong pull, soft sound, and better fuel use make it a great pick if you drive far, tow often, and want to save on fuel stops. In comparison to the HEMI, the EcoDiesel wins for anyone who spends more time on highways or who wants power with fewer visits to the pump.
HEMI V8
The HEMI V8 is known for its roar. It comes as a 5.7-litre V8 with about 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. That power shows up fast when you press the pedal. It can tow up to 12,750 lbs and carry a payload close to 2,300 lbs. It feels lively on steep hills or when passing on busy Toronto roads. It uses about 13.8 L/100 km in the city and about 10.2 L/100 km on the highway, which is more than the EcoDiesel, but you get faster response and more muscle in return.
The HEMI is loved by drivers who haul heavy loads often but also want a bit of thrill. It sounds strong, pulls hard, and gives that classic truck feel. If you need fast power for short bursts, like towing a trailer out of deep snow or climbing sharp slopes, it does the job with ease. Still, when compared with the EcoDiesel, it burns more fuel, which might not suit everyone who drives long daily distances.
Feel the Power Yourself - Visit Village Chrysler Today!
Both engines are solid. The EcoDiesel works better if you drive far, tow often, and care about fuel use. The HEMI shines if you want quick power, fast pull, and that bold truck feel. Each one fits a different kind of life on Canadian roads. You can feel the difference yourself at Village Chrysler in Ajax, ON. Book a test drive and see which engine matches your day. The open highways, snowy hills, and busy city roads around Ajax are waiting for you to decide which one will power your next drive.