An American vehicle inspired by an Italian model. Perfect for a big city
The RAM Promaster is a full-size front-wheel-drive cargo and passenger van, which has been produced by FCA under the RAM brand since 2015. It is designed to support commercial activities in city conditions. The Promaster is an American adaptation of the popular European Fiat Ducato front-wheel drive van, known for its durability and fuel-efficiency. In 2021, Israeli buyers can purchase the first generation after the 2018 restyling.
The first generation
It has been produced from 2015 to the present, and was restyled in 2018 (as of 2021). The 2015 Promaster was built on the classic platforms of RAM 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups, which could be used in different conditions. There were two wheelbases for the 1500 and 2500. The 1500 could also have a low roof version, while a longer body version was available for the 3500.
The Promaster’s high profile makes it possible to maximize load capacity, working space and an ability to work in a standing position on a relatively small platform. The largest configuration offers 13 cubic meters of cargo capacity. The front-wheel drive layout determined the possibility of using a short bonnet, which greatly facilitated parking and tight turns, providing the driver with excellent frontal visibility.
The 2016/2017 Promaster was standardly equipped with a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine generating 280 hp, which was coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. As an option, there was a 3-liter 4-cylinder turbo diesel generating 174 hp, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, which was adapted for heavy loads. The layout, engines and chassis allowed the Promaster to withstand a payload of up to 2 tons and tow up to 2.3 tons.
The layout, engines and chassis allowed the Promaster to withstand a payload of up to 2 tons and tow up to 2.3 tons.
All the Promaster models were equipped with 16-inch steel wheels, a sliding side door on the passenger side, air conditioning, power front windows, electric locks, keyless access, telescopic (not tilt-adjustable) steering wheel and a four-speaker audio system, USB and additional audio inputs. In general, the Promaster was well-equipped and comfortable.
As for standard safety features, the 2015/2016 RAM Promaster had front and side airbags, anti-lock disc brakes, vehicle start assist, stability control (with trailer swing control) and traction control. Additional features included a road safety kit, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera.
2018 restyling
The restyled 2018/2019 RAM Promaster is a large two-seater van with a large cargo compartment. Depending on the configuration, cargo capacity varies from 7.3 cubic meters for the 1500 model with a short wheelbase and a low roof, up to 13 cubic meters for the 3500 model with a long wheelbase and a high roof with increased cargo space. The new 1500 Promaster 1500 has a load capacity from 1,710 to 1,809 kg, depending on the configuration. The 2500 is capable of transporting from 1,678 to 1,873 kg. The 3500 model has a load capacity from 1,823 to 2,009 kg.
The new Promaster 1500 has a load capacity from 1,710 to 1,809 kg, depending on the configuration. The 2500 is capable of transporting from 1,678 to 1,873 kg. The 3500 model has a load capacity from 1,823 to 2,009 kg.
The restyled Promaster is equipped with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine generating 280 hp, coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission or a 3.0-liter 4-cylinder EcoDiesel engine generating 174 hp, combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The list of standard options of the 2019/2020 ProMaster 1500 includes 16-inch steel wheels, split-opening rear doors, manually adjustable mirrors, remote door control, rearview camera, air conditioning, cargo side lights, 5-inch touchscreen, 4-speaker audio system and USB port. The Promaster 2500 and 3500 versions come with the same equipment as the 1500, but have reinforced suspension to handle higher payloads.
The design of the van offers a wide range of safety features, from standard features such as front and side airbags, a reversing camera, anti-lock brakes and traction control, to advanced options such as rear parking sensors.
