Ram is shaking up its 2026 model year with not one, but two new trims for the heavy-duty 2500 lineup: the Black Express and Warlock. Both are made to add serious attitude, regardless of whether you’re self-driving in the city or on back roads, or working on the jobsite on weekdays. These two trims can allow truck enthusiasts to step outside the box but not necessarily go broke in the process.
If you ever thought your once-off work truck could look a little less stock or thought your weekend off-road truck was going to be an expensive adventure to aftermarket upgrades, then Ram may just have your brainwaves.
Black Express: All About That Clean, Street-Ready Look
The Black Express is perfect for those looking for a truck that is bold yet still feels clean, purposeful, and usable day to day. It's built on the Tradesman trim, so it is still functionality focused - though it adds character. Ram has leaned into a blackout theme and delivered:
- 20-inch gloss black wheels
- Sport performance hood
- Body-color bumpers and grille
- Blacked-out badge and trim
On the inside, it is straightforward but not excessive - there is cloth bench seats, carpet flooring, and includes the tech like ParkSense and power tow mirrors for regular driving and trailering.
Why it works: It provide you with that rugged street sport aesthetic without being a high-end premium trim. Whether you are heading into work or a meet-up, there is an easy cool about this look, without appearing too overt.
Warlock: Built for Dirt, Mud, and Everything In-Between
In other words, the Warlock is your go-anywhere, getting dirty, don't hold back truck. The Warlock is offered only as a 4x4 Crew Cab only with a short bed, so we already know this one is ready for adventure.
What you get with a Warlock is real wild-roaming potential:
- Goodyear Duratrac A/T tires with a 34-inch diameter
- Bilstein off-road shocks
- Anti-spin rear differential
- Transfer case skid plate
- Hill Descent Control for downhill crawling
- Unique Warlock graphics and black fender flares
And inside, it's all-weather-ready too, with durable mats and cloth bench that won't care about some trail dust.
Why is this a big deal: You're not paying extra at the dealership for off-road gear that is 'appropriate,' you are getting what amounts to dealer-installed off-road gear, and it was engineered as a vehicle meant to be driven off of the pavement starting on day one.
Firepower You Can Bank on Under the Hood
Ram didn’t skimp on the engine either. Both trim levels come with the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine with 405 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque standard. That is a whole lot of engine to haul, tow, or climb with! If diesel is your jam, the 6.7L Cummins inline-six engine is also available and produces a whopping 1,075 lb-ft of torque.
Transmissions: An 8-speed automatic transmission to load up and then cruise off the road crossing streams.
Actual Affordable Pricing for the Average Buyer
Ram did not disappoint on pricing with these trucks which is probably the best part of the update.
- Black Express has a starting MSRP of $53,735
- Warlock has a starting MSRP of $57,165
Those prices are with destination and are a value compared to many other pickups in this price range between 70k-100K fully loaded or high-end models.
Important Points for Buyers
- A daring combination of theming and everyday practicality
- Ready for action on or off the street, straight from the factory
- Two muscular engines available, including a diesel option
- Excellent value for the cost and doesn't skip on offerings
- Has the Ram heavy-duty performance badge on it
2026 Ram 2500 Black Express & Warlock Specs
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Conclusion
The 2026 Ram 2500 Black Express and Warlock demonstrate an example of how a truck can be utilitarian and personable. Ram combines a reliable platform in the Tradesman with two exciting alternatives; one street style, the other for serious off-road adventures, while remaining budget conscious.
Whether you need some attitude for city cruising, or rugged for use beyond the pavement, these trims allow you to avoid the aftermarket hassle of building your own and take delivery of something unique from the factory. This is a smart move by Ram, and a score for truck enthusiasts who like to get more without paying more.
Put simply: real value, real capability, and real attitude—from the factory.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
