Muscle Meets Attitude: 2026 Ram 2500 Black Express and Warlock Trims Give Heavy Duty Trucks a Stylish Edge
In the world of American pickup trucks, the Ram 2500 has long been seen as a symbol of strength, durability, and pure utility. For drivers who need to tow heavy loads or navigate tough work environments, it’s a natural choice. But for 2026, Ram wants to challenge that purely functional image by injecting a dose of flair and personality into its heavy-duty lineup—introducing the new Black Express and Warlock trims.
Both trims are based on the budget-friendly Tradesman model and aim to bring a sporty edge to the burly Ram 2500. While the term "Sport Truck" might sound ironic when applied to a vehicle that tips the scales well over 3 tons and can haul a small house, visually, these new trims definitely bring something fresh to the table.
In fact, many American families use full-size pickups as their daily drivers. Take Bob Jenkins from Texas, for example—a plumbing contractor who spends his days shuttling between Austin-area job sites and backcountry farms. “I chose the 2500 because it can tow my gear,” he says. “But I didn’t want something that just looks like it belongs on a construction site.” When he saw the Black Express model—with its sport performance hood, body-color bumpers, and all-black wheels—he knew it was the truck that spoke to both sides of his life.
The Black Express can be configured with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, and buyers can choose between short or long beds. It features black 20-inch wheels, body-color grille surrounds, black cab-length side steps, and a bold but clean aesthetic that feels more “street” than “worksite.” The interior keeps things simple yet functional, with carpeted floor mats and both front and rear parking sensors. Best of all, the Black Express adds just $2,495 to the cost of a Tradesman, for a starting price of $53,735—a very reasonable upgrade for those looking to make a statement without breaking the bank.
If your idea of “sport” leans more toward off-road adventure, the Warlock trim might be a better match. Offered exclusively in four-wheel drive with a short bed, the Warlock features bold bedside decals and a blacked-out exterior including the grille, fender flares, and bumpers. It rides on 34-inch Goodyear Duratrac all-terrain tires wrapped around diamond-cut 20-inch wheels, and it even gets a skid plate to protect the transfer case.
Interestingly, the Warlock doesn’t include side steps or rock sliders, though Mopar may offer them later as accessories. What sets it apart mechanically is a standard limited-slip differential, Bilstein shocks tuned for both road and trail use, and hill descent control—all features that give it a real shot at tackling backwoods trails or snowy inclines.
Samantha Reed, an avid off-roader from Salt Lake City, Utah, already has her eye on the Warlock. “I take my dogs up into the mountains a lot—sometimes with a small camper in tow,” she says. “This truck can tow, it can climb, and it looks like it means business. It’s not just for show.” She particularly praised the rugged suspension and aggressive tires, noting that the Warlock “isn’t just about looks—it’s built to perform.”
Inside, the Warlock comes with practical all-weather rubber floor mats for both rows. Its price premium over the Tradesman is $2,995, bringing its base MSRP to $57,165. For those seeking a blend of utility, toughness, and serious attitude, the Warlock represents a unique package in the heavy-duty segment.
Both trims are available for order now, with deliveries expected to begin in Q3 2025. Like other HD Rams, they’ll be built at the Saltillo plant in Mexico.
It’s worth noting that Ram’s move follows a growing trend in the pickup world. Ford recently extended its “Lobo” sporty styling from the Maverick to the F-150, and GMC added an AT4 off-road variant to its electric Sierra lineup. Clearly, consumers are demanding more personality and individuality—even from their work trucks.
In the end, for many American truck owners, a pickup isn’t just a tool—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re commuting to the jobsite, hitting the trail for a weekend getaway, or just heading to the drive-in with your kids in the back seat, the 2026 Ram 2500 Black Express and Warlock are designed to reflect who you are—on and off the clock.