2017 Ram Promaster 2500 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
What’s New for 2017?
For the 2017 model year, the Promaster 2500 comes standard with a radio. No other significant changes were made.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Ram Promaster 2500 – The Pros
1. Strong Pentastar Engine
Over the years, the Pentastar V-6 has become very popular. From sedans to pickup trucks, it is used in a number of different models. Ram tuned the engine to develop a healthy 280 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. You can expect the Promaster 2500 to feel quite strong in everyday driving situations.
2. Smooth Standard Transmission
The base V-6 engine and the optional diesel engine come equipped with a different automatic transmission. Most drivers will agree that the V-6 model’s transmission performs the best. When you step on the gas pedal, the transmission reacts immediately. The gearbox’s responsiveness helps ensure effortless acceleration in the city and on the open road.
3. Fuel-Saving Diesel Engine
Some buyers will like the available diesel engine. Although the diesel model is not as quick, it does reward you with enhanced fuel efficiency. It produces 174 horsepower and a brawny 295 pound-feet of torque. Because of the engine’s abundance of torque, it is a great choice for towing a load and climbing mountain roads.
4. Reliable & Affordable to Maintain
Based on feedback from long-term owners, the 2017 Ram Promaster 2500 should remain reliable. It is not known for having any major problem areas. You can also take advantage of the van’s low operating cost. Drivers will be able to put a lot of miles on the Promaster 2500 before it needs to be serviced.
5. Can Tow a Load
Although the 2017 Ram Promaster 2500 cannot tow as much weight as a rear-wheel-drive van, it is still quite capable. You will be able to lug around a 5,000-pound load with no trouble. This is good news for the drivers who need to haul around extra equipment. Trailer sway control comes standard, which helps keep your load stabilized.
6. Versatile Cargo Area
There is plenty of room in the van’s storage area. You can customize it to accommodate different types of cargo. If you need to secure heavy items such as commercial equipment, the sturdy tie downs will come in handy. When equipped with a high roof, the Promaster 2500 can easily be transformed into a mobile office.
7. Uconnect Infotainment System
For good reason, the optional Uconnect infotainment system has received several accolades over the past few years. Automotive journalists love its easy-to-use design. Unlike some touch-screen interfaces, the Uconnect system’s display immediately responds to your tap. Drivers will be able to quickly surf through the available apps. If you are a smartphone user, you should have no problems connecting your device.
8. Good Visibility
While behind the wheel of the 2017 Ram Promaster 2500, drivers will grow to appreciate its impressive outward visibility. They will not be blinded by large window pillars. The van’s short hood and wide windshield give you an extra sense of awareness on the road. When traveling in a busy area, the optional backup camera will help drivers to spot obstacles.
9. Tempting Upgrades
There are plenty of worthy upgrades available for the Promaster 2500. During the peak of winter, the optional heated seats will provide enhanced comfort. A lot of business owners will like the Wi-Fi hot spot, which enables their drivers to maintain a dependable internet connection. Navigation is yet another popular upgrade.
10. Easy to Drive
While the 2017 Ram Promaster 2500 is a rather large van, it does not feel clumsy. A front-wheel-drive setup makes it easier to maneuver in tight spots. In the event that you are faced with bad weather, the Promaster 2500 will provide better traction than most RWD models. Comfortable seats promise to make your daily grind more enjoyable.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Ram Promaster 2500 – The Cons
1. Can’t Haul as Much Weight as Some Vans
The Promaster 2500’s front-wheel-drive system limits its hauling and towing capabilities. It is rated to tow a bit less weight than a traditional RWD van. If you need the maximum towing capabilities, take a look at some of today’s V8-powered vans.
2. Diesel Model’s Clunky Transmissions
Don’t expect the diesel model’s transmission to feel very smooth. Clunky gear shifts make it less satisfying than the standard automatic transmission. This is especially true when traveling in stop-and-go traffic.
3. Odd Styling
Not everyone will like the Promaster 2500’s unique styling. A stubby hood makes it look different from a traditional van. While an upgraded chrome bumper is available, the Promaster 2500’s standard plastic bumper has a cheap appearance. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter looks noticeably more refined.
How it stacks up to the competition:
Some of the Promaster 2500’s key rivals include the 2017 Ford Transit and the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The Promaster 2500 has arguably the best infotainment system in the segment. Some buyers will also prefer the Promaster 2500’s stronger base engine. In comparison to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the Promaster 2500 has a lower cost of maintenance.
Conclusion:
Although the cargo van segment is competitive, the 2017 Ram Promaster 2500 has some adoring qualities that will appeal to businesses. Secure handling and a tight turning radius give it an advantage over some vans. Expect to pay around $35,000 for the base version. However, don’t hesitate to pay extra for goodies such as the backup camera.
