2017 RAM ProMaster Cargo Van in Detail: Review, Specs, and Pricing

2017 RAM Promaster – Capable, Reliable and Affordable Cargo Van

Using the Fiat Ducato as its basis, RAM ProMaster cargo van adds an American V6 engine and several features to make it an enticing alternative to competitors from Ford, Nissan, Chevrolet, and Mercedes-Benz.

Available in 1500, 2500 and 3500 configurations, this vehicle offers numerous customization solutions to suit about any business need.

Its front-drive layout results in five stars for the highest ceiling, easiest step-in height, and lowest load floor. These elements allow to its cargo configuration to serve from a mobile workshop to package-hauling powerhouse.

2017 RAM ProMaster Cargo Van: Trim Levels & Engine

This Dodge van comes in 3 main trim levels: 1500, 2500, and 3500.

1500 offers two wheelbase lengths (118/136 inches) and a low or high-roof version.

2500 also offers two wheelbases (136/159 inches) but includes the high roof only.

The 3500 features one wheelbase (159 inches) – but can be ordered with an extra-long body configuration – 250 inches vs. the standard 236” for additional cargo space. The 3500 has a high roof only.

Standard on all ProMasters is a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 280 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic gear.

Optional is a 3.0 liter 4-cylinder turbodiesel with 174 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It’s also matched with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

2017 RAM Promaster Van: Specifications

Payload Capacity

Standardly equipped, this utility van can handle payloads of up to 5,160 pounds (depends on configuration) and tow up to 5,100 pounds. Its payload capacity is competitive for the class, but its tow rating is significantly lower than those of its rear-wheel-drive rivals.

Cargo capacity goes from 259 cubic feet of cargo on the 1500 low-roof version to 463 cubic feet on the extended-length 3500 van. Although that room doesn’t fit the Ford Transit’s maximum of 487 cubic feet, Dodge utility van still offers extensive space to accommodate all cargo or customized upfitter models.

Interior

A commercial van is intended for work gloves and boots, but it provides some comfort and convenience. An available suspension-enhanced driver’s seat delivers long-haul comfort, and available swiveling seats ease access to the rear.

There are 3 wheelbase lengths, two options for ceiling height, 4 solutions for body length, up to 17 tie-downs. You can add in shelves, racks, and workbenches so that vehicle can be transformed for any purpose. The high ceiling and low load floor might be enough to pick the ProMaster.

Safety

Dodge cargo van isn't crash-tested by the federal government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - and isn't rated by the nonprofit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, also.

But it offers plenty of safety features, from standard things such as anti-lock brakes, traction control, and front/side-curtain airbags to features like the rear parking sensors and a backup camera.

Features

The RAM van is essentially a blank slate. Standard equipment includes telescoping steering wheel, remote keyless entry, power windows, Brembo brakes, and a four-speaker radio with auxiliary inputs and USB.

Safety options include Trailer Sway Control, six airbags, electronic traction/stability control, and Hill Start Assist.

Extra features are heated seats, swiveling front seats, 3-across seating with vinyl upholstery, and a pneumatic-suspension driver's seat. Other options involve cruise control, Bluetooth, Uconnect touch-screen navigation, a rearview camera with backup sensors, a driver-side sliding door, and an overhead shelf.

Driving

Visibility is helped by large side windows and a massive windshield, while the available rear camera and parking sensors help mitigate rear blind spots caused by the cargo van’s solid metal doors.

Due to a cab-forward design with the seat almost over the front axle, the RAM provides an excellent view of the road and the van's corners.

It has an exceptionally tight turning radius, measuring 36 feet, which is tighter than most sedans and 3-feet tighter than the Ford Transit. The 3.6-liter V6 is capable of moving this large van, while the front-drive layout mitigates crosswind drift.

2017 RAM Promaster Cargo Van: MPG

The ProMaster Cargo Van MSRP isn’t provided by RAM, but many experts claim that an average fuel economy is 18/26 mpg for city/hwy.

2017 RAM Promaster Cargo Van: Pros & Cons

This cargo van is the ultimate workhorse, providing a spacious interior, and nearly limitless configuration possibilities. Whether used as a mobile business, for deliveries, or the ultimate RV conversion, starting with this workstation as your base is a great idea.

This work van is a relatively new commodity, so reliability ratings are hard to gauge. If you’re looking for comfort, you’ll have to look to the Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit.

Powerful engine;

Great steering and maneuvering;

Reliability;

Cargo space;

Hauling capacity;

Excellent safety features.

High driving position;

Simple interior;

Design;

How Much the 2017 RAM ProMaster Cargo Van Costs?

The standard low-roof, short-wheelbase 1500, had an MSRP under $30,000. Today used 2017 ProMaster, in good shape, costs around $19,000. The ProMaster 2500 starting price was at about $32,000, with the longer model adding roughly $1,500. The window variant comes in around $35,000.

The maximum-duty 3500 starts from $35,000. Two years later, these models are possible to buy at $25,000 for Extended 2500 version and $27,000 for high roof 3500 Tradesman.

	2017 RAM Promaster 1500	2017 RAM Promaster 2500	2017 RAM Promaster 3500
SUMMARY
Length	194.00 in.	213.1 in.	236.0 in.
Height	91.0 in	101.0 in.	101.0 in.
Width	90.5 in	90.5 in.	90.5 in.
Standard Engine	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)
Horsepower	280 HP	280 HP	280 HP
Fuel Economy (Combined)	15 mpg	15 mpg	15 mpg
BodyStyle	Other	Other	Other
Transmission	6-Speed	6-Speed	6-Speed
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD
Standard Seating	2	2	2
Wheelbase	118.0 in.	136.0 in.	159.0 in.
ENGINE AND POWER
Horsepower	-280 HP @6400RPM	280 HP @6400RPM	280 HP @6400RPM
Torque	260ft lb @4175 RPM	260ft lb @4400 RPM	260ft lb @4400 RPM
Standard Engine	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)
Displacement	3604(cc)	3604(cc)
Valves/Valve Configuration	4 * 6	4 * 6	4 * 6
Bore X Stroke	96.0 x 83.0 mm	96.0 x 83.0 mm	96.0 x 83.0 mm
Compression Ratio	10.2:1	10.2:1	10.2:1
Emission Rating	FED	FED	FED
TRANSMISSION AND CHASSIS
Transmission	6-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD
Front Suspension	Independent Strut	Independent Strut	Independent Strut
Rear Suspension	Rigid Beam	Rigid Beam	Rigid Beam
Steering	Hydraulic	Hydraulic	Hydraulic
FULL ECONOMY
Fuel Economy (City)	13 mpg	13 mpg	13 mpg
Fuel Economy (Highway)	18 mpg	18 mpg	18 mpg
Fuel Economy (Combined)	15 mpg	15 mpg	15 mpg
Fuel Type	Unleaded / Multi-Point Injection	Unleaded / Multi-Point Injection	Unleaded / Multi-Point Injection
Fuel Capacity	24.0 Gal.	24.0 Gal.	24.0 Gal.
Range (City)	312.0	312.0	312.0
Range (Highway)	432.0	432.0	432.0
WHEELS AND TIRES
Front Wheel Size	16 in.	16 in.	16 in.
Rear Wheel Size	16 in.	16 in.	16 in.
Alloy Wheels	Optional	Optional	Optional
Turning Circle	36.3 ft.	40.7 ft.	46.8 ft.
Standard Wheel Type	Steel	Steel	Steel
Full Size Spare	Standard	Standard	Standard
Standard Tire (Front)	225/75 R16	225/75 R16	225/75 R16
Standard Tire (Rear)	225/75 R16	225/75 R16	225/75 R16
PAYLOAD AND TOWING
Standard Unbraked Trailer Weight	1000 lbs	1000 lbs	1000 lbs
Standard Payload	3990 lbs	3770 lbs	4420 lbs
Cargo Volume	259.0 cu. ft.	353.0 cu. ft.	420.0 cu. ft.
Maximum Braked Trailer Weight	5100 lbs	5100 lbs	5100 lbs
Maximum Payload	3990 lbs	3770 lbs	4420 lbs
Standard GVWR	8550 lb	8550 lbs	9350 lbs
Maximum GVWR	8550 lbs	8550 lbs	9350 lbs
Tow Hitch Receiver	Optional	Optional	Optional
Towing Prep. Package	Standard	Standard	Standard
FEATURES
Steering Mounted Controls	Optional	Optional	Optional
Cruise Control	Optional	Optional	Optional
Tire Inflation/Pressure Monitor	Standard	Standard	Standard
Trip Computer	Standard	Standard	Standard
Rear Window Defogger	Optional	Optional	Optional
ENTERTAINMENT
Bluetooth	Optional	Optional	Optional/td>
CD Player	Standard	Standard	Standard
Radio	AM/FM	AM/FM	AM/FM
Satellite Radio	Optional	Optional	Optional
KEY, REMOTE AND NAVIGATION
Remote Lock/unlock	Standard	Standard	Standard
Remote starting	Optional	Optional	Optional
Navigation System	Optional	Optional	Optional
Power Door Locks	Standard	Standard	Standard
Speed Sensing Locks	Standard	Standard	Standard
Vehicle Anti-Theft	Optional	Optional	Optional
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Length	194.0 in.	213.1 in.	236.0 in.
Height	91.0 in.	101.0 in.	101.0 in.
Width	90.5 in.	90.05 in.	90.05 in.
BodyStyle	Other	Other	Other
Curb Weight	4560 lbs	4776 lbs	4922 lbs
Track Front	71.3 in.	71.3 in.	71.3 in.
Ground Clearance	6.9 in.	6.9 in.	6.9 in.
Cargo Bed Depth	65.0 in.	76.0 in.	76.0 in.
Number of Doors	3	3	3
Wheelbase	118.0 in.	136.0 in.	159.0 in.
Track Rear	70.5 in.	70.5 in.	70.5 in.
Cargo Bed Width at Wheel Well	56.0 in.	56.0 in.	56.0 in.
FEATURES
Heated Exterior Mirror	Optional	Optional	Optional
Splash or Mud Guards	Optional	Optional	Optional
Interval Wipers	Standard	Standard	Standard
ROOF AND LIGHTING
Fog Lights	Optional	Optional	--------
Daytime Running Lights	Optional	Optional	Optional
Cargo Area Light	Standard	Standard	Standard
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Standard Seating	2	2	2
Front Leg Room	38.8 in.	38.8 in.	38.8 in.
Maximum Seating	2	2	2
Front Shoulder Room	74.8 in.	74.8 in.	74.8 in.
FEATURES
Leather Steering Wheel	Optional	Optional	Optional
Power Windows	Standard	Standard	Standard
Telescope Steering	Standard	Standard	Standard
Power Adjustable Exterior Mirror	Optional	Optional	Optional
HEATING AND AC
Air Conditioning	Standard	Standard	Standard
STORAGE
Cargo Area Tie downs	Standard	Standard	Standard
SEATS
Front Heated Seat	Optional	Optional	Optional

	2017 RAM Promaster 1500	2017 RAM Promaster 2500	2017 RAM Promaster 3500
SUMMARY
Length	194.00 in.	213.1 in.	236.0 in.
Height	91.0 in	101.0 in.	101.0 in.
Width	90.5 in	90.5 in.	90.5 in.
Standard Engine	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)
Horsepower	280 HP	280 HP	280 HP
Fuel Economy (Combined)	15 mpg	15 mpg	15 mpg
BodyStyle	Other	Other	Other
Transmission	6-Speed	6-Speed	6-Speed
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD
Standard Seating	2	2	2
Wheelbase	118.0 in.	136.0 in.	159.0 in.
ENGINE AND POWER
Horsepower	-280 HP @6400RPM	280 HP @6400RPM	280 HP @6400RPM
Torque	260ft lb @4175 RPM	260ft lb @4400 RPM	260ft lb @4400 RPM
Standard Engine	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)	3.6 L 280 HP V 6(xaxis)
Displacement	3604(cc)	3604(cc)
Valves/Valve Configuration	4 * 6	4 * 6	4 * 6
Bore X Stroke	96.0 x 83.0 mm	96.0 x 83.0 mm	96.0 x 83.0 mm
Compression Ratio	10.2:1	10.2:1	10.2:1
Emission Rating	FED	FED	FED
TRANSMISSION AND CHASSIS
Transmission	6-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD
Front Suspension	Independent Strut	Independent Strut	Independent Strut
Rear Suspension	Rigid Beam	Rigid Beam	Rigid Beam
Steering	Hydraulic	Hydraulic	Hydraulic
FULL ECONOMY
Fuel Economy (City)	13 mpg	13 mpg	13 mpg
Fuel Economy (Highway)	18 mpg	18 mpg	18 mpg
Fuel Economy (Combined)	15 mpg	15 mpg	15 mpg
Fuel Type	Unleaded / Multi-Point Injection	Unleaded / Multi-Point Injection	Unleaded / Multi-Point Injection
Fuel Capacity	24.0 Gal.	24.0 Gal.	24.0 Gal.
Range (City)	312.0	312.0	312.0
Range (Highway)	432.0	432.0	432.0
WHEELS AND TIRES
Front Wheel Size	16 in.	16 in.	16 in.
Rear Wheel Size	16 in.	16 in.	16 in.
Alloy Wheels	Optional	Optional	Optional
Turning Circle	36.3 ft.	40.7 ft.	46.8 ft.
Standard Wheel Type	Steel	Steel	Steel
Full Size Spare	Standard	Standard	Standard
Standard Tire (Front)	225/75 R16	225/75 R16	225/75 R16
Standard Tire (Rear)	225/75 R16	225/75 R16	225/75 R16
PAYLOAD AND TOWING
Standard Unbraked Trailer Weight	1000 lbs	1000 lbs	1000 lbs
Standard Payload	3990 lbs	3770 lbs	4420 lbs
Cargo Volume	259.0 cu. ft.	353.0 cu. ft.	420.0 cu. ft.
Maximum Braked Trailer Weight	5100 lbs	5100 lbs	5100 lbs
Maximum Payload	3990 lbs	3770 lbs	4420 lbs
Standard GVWR	8550 lb	8550 lbs	9350 lbs
Maximum GVWR	8550 lbs	8550 lbs	9350 lbs
Tow Hitch Receiver	Optional	Optional	Optional
Towing Prep. Package	Standard	Standard	Standard
FEATURES
Steering Mounted Controls	Optional	Optional	Optional
Cruise Control	Optional	Optional	Optional
Tire Inflation/Pressure Monitor	Standard	Standard	Standard
Trip Computer	Standard	Standard	Standard
Rear Window Defogger	Optional	Optional	Optional
ENTERTAINMENT
Bluetooth	Optional	Optional	Optional/td>
CD Player	Standard	Standard	Standard
Radio	AM/FM	AM/FM	AM/FM
Satellite Radio	Optional	Optional	Optional
KEY, REMOTE AND NAVIGATION
Remote Lock/unlock	Standard	Standard	Standard
Remote starting	Optional	Optional	Optional
Navigation System	Optional	Optional	Optional
Power Door Locks	Standard	Standard	Standard
Speed Sensing Locks	Standard	Standard	Standard
Vehicle Anti-Theft	Optional	Optional	Optional
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Length	194.0 in.	213.1 in.	236.0 in.
Height	91.0 in.	101.0 in.	101.0 in.
Width	90.5 in.	90.05 in.	90.05 in.
BodyStyle	Other	Other	Other
Curb Weight	4560 lbs	4776 lbs	4922 lbs
Track Front	71.3 in.	71.3 in.	71.3 in.
Ground Clearance	6.9 in.	6.9 in.	6.9 in.
Cargo Bed Depth	65.0 in.	76.0 in.	76.0 in.
Number of Doors	3	3	3
Wheelbase	118.0 in.	136.0 in.	159.0 in.
Track Rear	70.5 in.	70.5 in.	70.5 in.
Cargo Bed Width at Wheel Well	56.0 in.	56.0 in.	56.0 in.
FEATURES
Heated Exterior Mirror	Optional	Optional	Optional
Splash or Mud Guards	Optional	Optional	Optional
Interval Wipers	Standard	Standard	Standard
ROOF AND LIGHTING
Fog Lights	Optional	Optional	--------
Daytime Running Lights	Optional	Optional	Optional
Cargo Area Light	Standard	Standard	Standard
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Standard Seating	2	2	2
Front Leg Room	38.8 in.	38.8 in.	38.8 in.
Maximum Seating	2	2	2
Front Shoulder Room	74.8 in.	74.8 in.	74.8 in.
FEATURES
Leather Steering Wheel	Optional	Optional	Optional
Power Windows	Standard	Standard	Standard
Telescope Steering	Standard	Standard	Standard
Power Adjustable Exterior Mirror	Optional	Optional	Optional
HEATING AND AC
Air Conditioning	Standard	Standard	Standard
STORAGE
Cargo Area Tie downs	Standard	Standard	Standard
SEATS
Front Heated Seat	Optional	Optional	Optional

2017 RAM ProMaster vs 2017 Ford Transit

Both of these cargo vans come in several trims and with different ceiling height solutions. In the 1500 configuration, with the starting low ceiling height, the ProMaster van features a lower starting MSRP than the 2017 Ford Transit, but it offers multiple benefits.

Its base 3.6-liter V-6 engine produces 280 hp, while the 3.7-liter V-6 engine that comes standard on the Ford Transit generates 270 hp. The RAM also leads when it comes to torque in this base level.

Another advantage that the base ProMaster brings to this comparison is its interior capacity. In its smallest wheelbase and height level, the RAM features 259 cubic feet of interior space, which is great for upfitting or hauling packages.

When buyers opt for the largest, more expensive models with a taller ceiling and wider wheelbase, the Transit provides the larger maximum cargo space. The RAM cargo van tops out at 463 cubic feet of interior space.

Ford offers the largest interior cargo space, but the ProMaster delivers more payload potential. It can haul up to 5,160 pounds when adequately equipped, while the Ford Transit tops out at 4,460 pounds.

2017 RAM ProMaster vs 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Through high-strength engines, both vans can deliver impressive performance for a price that fits any budget, though, for the price point, there're many aspects in which a RAM cargo van holds the upper hand.

RAM ProMaster offers the highest cargo height (65.4”) and width (75.6”) of any fleet van in its class, and best-in-class front-wheel-drive system ensures that the drive will be smooth, responsive, and agile no matter what you’re transporting.

With the comfy seating and a Uconnect media feature, the ProMaster mixes connectivity and function in a budget-friendly bundle that most other cargo vans in its class can’t offer.

2017 RAM ProMaster vs 2017 Chevy Express

The RAM base engine has slightly lower engine output than the one that comes standard on the Chevy Express, but it still delivers plenty of functionality. It offers smooth driving and responsive handling, including quicker acceleration, and also some significant capability advantages.

Although the ProMaster Cargo Van has a lower starting MSRP than the 2017 Chevy Express, it can hold more payload even with the base engine. When adequately equipped, some models of the RAM can tow up to 5,100 pounds, which adds more valuable hauling features.

The RAM boasts a first-in-class standard cargo height of 65.4', a turning diameter of 36 feet, and one of the only front-wheel-drive systems available on vans in the USA. This cargo van also offers up to 460 cubic feet of cargo while the Chevy Express with an extended wheelbase has 313.9 cubic feet available on the interior. That's a big difference in how much these vans can hold and also in what type of customization options that can offer.

2017 RAM Promaster vs 2017 Nissan NV

These full-size vans are both available in 1500, 2500, and 3500 model configurations that offer different engine options, features, and interior space capability.

The ProMaster's engine, a 3.6-liter V-6 rated for 280 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, produces more power than the base V6 on the Nissan NV.

The Nissan model has more maximum interior cargo space with its high-roof model (487 cubic feet of maximum cargo space against maximum 463 cubic feet on the RAM). But the Promaster van can haul up to 5,160 pounds, while the NV can handle 3,860 pounds.

Standard features on the RAM that don't come standard on the NV include a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, keyless entry, and a 4-speaker sound system.

The Nissan NV has a tilt-only steering wheel, keyless entry available on upper trims, and a two-speaker sound system. Both vehicles come with cruise control and are available with rear parking sensors, heated mirrors, and air conditioning.