The Ram ProMaster is a front wheel drive powerhouse! Learn everything you need to know about this rugged van and why it may not be the best off road vehicle compared to a Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit.

The van market is more competitive than ever. With each company offering their version of what they think the best features are, it can get difficult to weed through all the information and make the right choice when it comes to making a purchase. I created this video series as a quick way to get up to speed on the different features and specs that each van company offers. In this video, we are going to talk about the Ram ProMaster.

The ProMaster was already a strong value, and it becomes more appealing for 2021 with its updated technology and driver assist offerings. It's still straightforward and utilitarian, offering little in the way of creature comforts, but for drivers focused on maximum utility, the ProMaster is a top choice..

Inside, the ProMaster benefits from a significant makeover, including an updated instrument panel and center stack, with new AC controls, more charging ports, which includes several USB and lightning connections as well as a 12 V DC and 115 V AC, and a modern infotainment system. Gone is the outdated 5.0-inch display, which is replaced by a standard 7.0- or optional 10.0-inch touchscreen. Both come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa voice assistant, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. It has push button start, push button parking brake and a nice spot to keep your phone!

Infotainment is just the tip of the iceberg on the ProMaster. The real magic is in the roster of driver-assistance technology. Boasting a 360-degree camera system, automatic high-beams, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and front parking sensors, the ProMaster was designed with the driver in mind! I think a lot of people overlook the drivability of some of these vans. It’s not just about having a comfortable living space...but also being comfortable behind the wheel.

All ProMaster vans are powered by a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that provides 280 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. While those characteristics aren’t that impressive compared to competitors, the ProMaster does offer a higher payload capacity which means the extra weight added from your buildout will not affect the handling of your van as much. (thumbs up smile) The ProMaster can tow up to 6910 pounds (1500 low roof model), but that's still less towing power than rivals such as the Transit (7500 pounds).

Heavy-duty vans are almost always rear wheel or four wheel drive...but Ram went with front-wheel drive as its sole layout. The idea is that the absence of rear-drive components can enable a lower load floor and provide greater utility. I’m not super stoked on it, especially being that I like to camp in the winter which means having 4wd (four wheel drive) is essential, but I think for most van owners, you’d be fine with two wheel drive. I mean, you could always chain up if you get caught in snow.

The Promaster comes in a 1500, 2500, and 3500. The standard short wheelbase measures 118 inches, the medium wheelbase is 136 inches, and the long wheelbase is 159 inches. There's also an extended body option for long-wheelbase models. Roof height is another choice. The low-roof model has a 66-inch cargo height, while high-roof models offer 77 inches of height from floor to ceiling; all models have 75 inches of width on the floor.

Another thing to note is how many Dodge locations there are in the United states! They have just over 2,400 which means no matter where you may end up in your travels, you’re never too far away from essential servicing or parts. The only brand with more locations is Ford with about 3,000 locations.

When it comes to overall handling, the Ram ProMaster is notably less refined than many of its rivals. The cabin is not quite as quiet, the ride quality not quite as smooth, but through its impressive driver assistance technologies and vast network of Dodge service centers the ProMaster is still a popular choice among the highly competitive van market. I would recommend it to most people interested in buying a van, as long as you aren’t expecting to tear it up off-roading or drive through deep snow.

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0:00 Welcome to Only Vans
0:24 Ram ProMaster
1:02 Overview
1:17 Inside
2:07 Driver Assistance
2:39 Engine
2:58 Payload
3:24 Front Wheel Drive
3:52 Sizes
4:37 Dodge Service Centers
5:08 Handling
5:33 Recommendation

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