Functionality Rules!: 2017 Ram ProMaster cargo van
Introduced in 2014, the Ram ProMaster is Ram Commercial’s workhorse entry to the competitive full-size cargo van marketplace. The ProMaster takes its place in the expanding, purpose-built, full-size van segment with a number of best-in-class features focused on the commercial customer. The Ram ProMaster is based on the front-wheel-drive Fiat Ducato, which is the most popular full-size van in Europe.
The ProMaster van is available in two roof heights, three wheelbases, three weight classes (1500, 2500, 3500), and four body lengths. Its unibody frame architecture makes it significantly lighter than the competition.
ProMaster boasts numerous best-in-class features that are appreciated by the hard-working customers of Ram’s new van. Best-in-class fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, usability and of course total cost of ownership all combine to deliver a proven solution for businesses and fleets. Additionally, the ProMaster is the only offering in its competitive set to provide both a chassis cab and cutaway from the factory.
Conceived and developed in Italy, Ram’s new front-wheel drive van also spent quality time proving itself on this side of the Atlantic undergoing extensive, extreme-duty testing to prepare for its North American debut as the Ram ProMaster.
Base power for the ProMaster is the standard-equipment 3.6L Pentastar V-6 engine. An available 3.0L inline four-cylinder EcoDiesel engine features a number of refinements, including internal engine components, turbo and emission controls. Torque is communicated to the street through a smooth-shifting 62TE automatic transmission which has been upgraded to accommodate the Ram ProMaster’s prodigious weight ratings. Specifically, its 3.86 final-drive ratio enables comfortable grade transit under full freight.
A trailer/tow program comes standard with 62TE and the MT40 automated manual, which is exclusive to the 3.0L EcoDiesel. The unique MT40 gearbox delivers the efficiency of a manual transmission with the functionality of an automatic. At its core, it is a manual, but gear shifts and clutch functions are accomplished with electro-hydraulic actuation system.
However, the driver can opt for manual shift-lever inputs when desired. But the driver needn’t do all the work. Gearbox software delivers a unique response to driving conditions. Shift logic is adjusted according to grade steepness. The result is a well-connected driving experience that delivers the fuel economy required of a commercial van such as the Ram ProMaster.
The unibody system under the cab is an enabler for the ProMaster’s segment exclusive front-wheel-drive system. The body-integral construction and multiple configurations allow Ram’s new ProMaster to be up-fitted for virtually every conceivable job. Without rear driveshafts or rear differentials, the proven drive system creates a number of advantages, including stability and strength from front to rear, a reinforced plenum area for optimized engine packaging, and “truer” tuning of chassis systems and related hardware when compared to more common body-on-frame applications.
The functional and innovative features continue inside the Ram ProMaster. Although much was borrowed from the Fiat version, Ram designers made alterations for U.S. customers. Interior design and function is of primary importance for a light commercial vehicle in which the driver normally spends long hours at the wheel, often under demanding conditions. The cabin of the ProMaster was therefore designed with comfortable driving ergonomics, important because the ProMaster is a place of work.
The ProMaster features a standard sliding door on the passenger side with an optional sliding door on the driver’s side. The sliding door openings are based on roof height – 49 inch x 60 inch for the low roof model and 49 inch x 70 inch for high roof models. In the rear, an available two-position rear clamshell door swings open up to 260-degrees, folding almost flat to the side of the van. All three door openings enable fork lift pallet loading and unloading, and spaciousness that leads the competitive set.
Because goods always need to be transported in total safety, the Ram ProMaster van is fitted with accommodations to hold down goods on the floor. Up to 17 tie-down rings with 1,000-lb. rating fold away to maintain a flat floor, easing loading and unloading operations. Available partitions also offer passengers excellent protection against the possibility of load shift the cabin.
Dimensions & specifications
Cargo Van/Short Wheelbase/Low Roof
Wheelbase: 118.0; overall length: 195.0; width: 82.7; height: 90.0
Cargo Van/Medium Wheelbase/Low Roof
Wheelbase: 136.0; overall length: 213.1; width: 82.7; height: 90.0
Cargo Van/Medium Wheelbase/High Roof
Wheelbase: 136.0; overall length: 213.1; width: 82.7; height 101.0
Cargo Van/Long Wheelbase/High Roof
Wheelbase: 159.0; overall length: 236.0; width: 82.7; height: 101.0
Cargo Van/Long Wheelbase – Extended Length/High Roof
Wheelbase: 159.0; overall length: 250.0; width: 82.7; height: 101.0
Engine: 3.6L V6 – 280 hp at 6,400 rpm and 260 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm; 3.0L four-cylinder turbo-diesel – 174 hp at 3,500 rpm and 295 lbs-ft of torque at 1,400 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed automatic, manual automatic six-speed.
Payload capacity: 4,120 lbs.
Towing capacity: 5,120 lbs.
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, all-speed traction control, electronic stability control, trailer sway control, rear backup camera kit, remote keyless entry, four-wheel disc brakes, full-size spare tire, and tire pressure monitoring system.
Optional safety features include: daytime running lights, front fog lamps, navigation system, Bluetooth hands free phone system, DOT-certified roadside safety kit, ParkSense rear park assist, remote engine start, and security alarm.
Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile
Powertrain – gasoline: 5-year/60,000 mile
Powertrain – diesel: 5-year/100,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2017 Ram ProMaster cargo van starts from $29,945 for the 1500 low roof 188wb upto $38,045 for the 3500 high roof 159wb extended. Destination charges add $1,320.
