Used 2019 Ram ProMaster

Would you rather be pushed through a turn or pulled? The 2019 Ram ProMaster thinks the answer is “pulled,” making it the only full-size van powered by its front wheels. Unlike the rear-drive Ford Transit, Nissan NV and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, the ProMaster puts the bulk of its weight over the drive wheels, helping with both stability and winter-weather traction. With no driveshaft in the way, Ram engineers were able to create a lower cargo floor with an easy step-in height. We should mention that the Sprinter does offer the option of all-wheel drive, a definite advantage over the ProMaster, and while the ProMaster comes standard with a 280-horsepower V6 gasoline engine, only the Sprinter and Transit still offer diesel power.

In the Dodge Charger, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 delivers exciting performance. In the 2019 Ram ProMaster, however, not so much. What the V6 does do well is move a fully loaded van without struggle, and the 6-speed automatic keeps the power coming when needed. Though no speed demon, the ProMaster excels in the areas of ride comfort, stability and, thanks to its tight turning radius, ease of maneuvering. In fact, so tight is the ProMaster’s turning circle that it bests the Ford Transit by a meaningful three feet. The ProMaster’s front-drive layout improves traction and stability, mitigating crosswind drift that can plague high-sided vans. However, some of our editors felt the ProMaster’s steering could use improvement, needing better on-center feel and less vagueness. Large windows and a massive raked windshield provide good forward visibility, coupled with the standard rearview camera and available polycarbonate side windows for improved side and rearward vision. 

A big commercial van is more about utility and capability than comfort, but in this important area, the Ram ProMaster delivers. An available suspension-enhanced driver’s seat improves long-haul comfort, while available swiveling seats ease access to the rear. There are three wheelbase lengths, two roof heights, four body lengths, and up to 17 tie-downs. Factor in the racks, shelves and workbenches available from upfitters, and you can create a van for just about any purpose. To some KBB editors, the low load floor and high ceiling are justification enough to choose the ProMaster.

You’re forgiven if you think the Ram ProMaster looks like a toaster on wheels. Function, though, trumps aesthetics with a full-size commercial van, even with its new grille. Moreover, these big Ram vans have been sold in the U.S. since 2014, so we’re now accustomed to their purposeful design. You can order your box in three weight ratings (1500, 2500, 3500), three wheelbase lengths (118, 136, 159 inches) and with a low or high roof. An extended body is available on the 159-inch chassis, and there are Chassis Cab and Cutaway versions as well. Of note, the ProMaster is available with a single sliding cargo door on the passenger’s side, or with sliding doors on both sides. Both openings are wide enough to accept standard pallets.

FRONT-WHEEL-DRIVE LAYOUT
Unique in this segment, the Ram ProMaster’s front-wheel-drive layout serves a number of purposes. With no driveshaft connecting the rear wheels, the cargo floor can be made lower, a plus when loading heavy equipment or gear. Front-drive performs better in snow and wet weather, improving both traction and stability.

MULTIPLE MODELS
This year, the ProMaster expands its lineup, with three wheelbases and two roof heights spread out over 1500, 2500 and 3500 grades. Numerous features designed to help with upfitting are offered, like motion-activated interior LED lighting. At its best, the ProMaster offers a 4,680-pound payload and max towing of 6,800 pounds.

The 2019 Ram ProMaster comes standard with a rearview camera and Uconnect 5.0, plus a telescoping steering wheel, remote keyless entry, power windows and a 4-speaker radio with USB and auxiliary inputs. Safety-wise, it has electronic traction and stability control, Trailer Sway Control, six airbags and Hill Start Assist, which keeps the van from rolling backward on steep inclines. There’s also a 180-amp alternator, auxiliary oil coolers for the engine and transmission, plus air conditioning as a delete option. As with other commercial vans, the rest of the vehicle configuration is up to the Ram owner and the extensive upfitter industry.

Options include swiveling front seats, heated seats, a pneumatic-suspension driver’s seat and 3-across seating with vinyl upholstery for carrying the whole crew. Other options: navigation, Bluetooth, backup sensors, cruise control, an engine-block heater, fixed glass (in the sliding doors), heated and power-adjustable mirrors, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, an overhead shelf and a driver-side sliding door. Available in-vehicle Internet access via Uconnect Web will help with business needs, and while many of these vans are equipped with all manner of accessories from upfitters, that’s usually arranged at the dealership and included in the entire deal.

With the loss of the 4-cylinder diesel this year, the only engine available for the 2019 ProMaster is the tried-and-true Fiat/Chrysler 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. Paired with a 6-speed automatic, the V6 delivers 280 horsepower, 260 lb-ft of torque and acceptable performance.

3.6-liter V6
280-horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
260 lb-ft of torque @ 4,175 rpm
EPA estimated fuel economy: NA