2018 Ram ProMaster Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The 2018 Ram ProMaster might not be the best-looking full-size work van on the market, but it gets the job done. While there are arguably some pretty detrimental downfalls to buying the ProMaster, it does have a few things going for it that are difficult to find on other full-size work vans, including an impressively tight turning radius. A cool tidbit that you might not know is that the ProMaster is the United States Postal Service's vehicle-of-choice, as they have swapped out many of their older trucks for the short wheelbase version of the ProMaster.

What's New for 2018?

Aside from the standardization of Bluetooth and a rearview camera, everything on the 2018 Ram ProMaster carries over from the outgoing 2017 lineup.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 Ram ProMaster – The Pros

1. Numerous Body Options

One of the best aspects of the 2018 Ram ProMaster is that there are plenty of body options to choose from. Like the Fiat Ducato it was adapted from, the ProMaster comes in several configurations, including 1500, 2500, and 3500 series. The 1500 has low- and high-roof options, and the 1500 and 2500 have two wheelbase options. The 3500 has an extended wheelbase option. Whatever your needs, you will likely be able to find a body style that works for you.

2. Small Turn Radius

Full-size vans aren't knowing for having a tight turn radius, but the ProMaster does. Thanks to its front-wheel drive, the ProMaster is able to make surprisingly narrow turns. Regardless of which wheelbase you choose, the ProMaster has a turning circle of under 47 feet, which is quite good for its class.

3. Low Load Floor

Most of the mechanical features on the 2018 Ram ProMaster are located toward the front of the van. This creates a low load floor layout. The low load floor is especially ideal if you plan on loading and unloading bulky cargo all the time.

4. Onboard Internet Connectivity

You can get onboard WiFi Internet connectivity on the ProMaster. This is especially helpful for those who rely on the Internet for work-related purposes. The connection seems to hold up well while on the road.

5. A High Payload Capacity

The payload capacity on the ProMaster is quite impressive. The payload maxes out at 4,417 pounds on the 3500 with the regular wheelbase. In fact, each level has a relatively good payload capacity. Even the 1500 high-roof model has a decent 3,794-pound payload.

6. Plenty of Cargo Space

There is no infringement upon cargo space in the 2018 Ram ProMaster. The lowest amount of cargo space is, of course, on the 1500, which tops out at 406 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place. The 3500 maxes out at a whopping 530 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place. Regardless of what you're hauling, you should have plenty of room for it.

7. A Fuel-Efficient Diesel Engine Option

While there are no published fuel efficiency ratings for the ProMaster (as it isn't held to the same regulations as regular commuter vehicles), there is a diesel engine option that is more fuel-efficient than the regular engine option. The turbodiesel is able to get 295 lb-ft of torque, which makes it ideal for hauling cargo. It might not feel as powerful as the 3.6-L V6 option, but the diesel is far better in terms of fuel efficiency.

8. Many Available Optional Features

There are plenty of optional features and packages that can be equipped on the 2018 Ram ProMaster. A few of these features include swivelling driver and passenger seats, GPS navigation, and heated driver and passenger seats. While these features tack on an additional price, some of them are truly worth the purchase, especially if you plan on driving around in a cooler climate.

9. The Uconnect Infotainment System

The Uconnect infotainment system is probably one of the most user-friendly tech interfaces that you can get on a vehicle. The touchscreen display provides clear and easy-to-use graphics. Even non-tech-savvy drivers will have an easy time getting used to this system.

10. Multiple Options Packages

Packages include the Cargo Convenience Group, Premium Appearance Group, and Smoker's Group. You can also get the MOPAR Trailer Tow Group, which is ideal for those who plan on towing a lot of cargo.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 Ram ProMaster – The Cons

1. Diesel Model Has a Clunky Transmission

While the diesel engine is incredibly fuel efficient, this model comes paired with a clunky 6-speed single-clutch transmission. This pairing is rather odd, and the 6-speed pauses when trying to change gears. This will take some getting used to for most drivers.

2. Difficulty Finding a Driving Position

The driver's seat isn't highly adjustable like what you find on some of the competition. Also, the steering wheel is tilt-only, which makes it extra difficult to find the most comfortable driving position. It would make sense for Ram to add a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel in the near-future.

3. Minimal Towing Capacity

Towing capacity is not the forte of the 2018 Ram ProMaster. While you can get the optional MOPAR Trailer Tow Group package added on to make towing a bit better, it will cost you money. Other full-size work vans offer better towing capacities for a more reasonable price.

4. Poor Ride Quality

The ride quality is a bit lacking, especially on the diesel engine option. The diesel is rather loud and obnoxious, so you will have to deal with a lot of engine noise making its way into the cabin. Also, you will feel some bumps in the road as you're driving.

How it Stacks up to the Competition:

2018 Ram ProMaster vs. 2018 Chevrolet City Express

The 2018 Chevrolet Express is a cargo van built to fit your work needs. It doesn't have an impressive amount of power and even falls behind the torque you get on the ProMaster's diesel engine. However, it has an incredibly spacious and well-designed cargo area and is competitively priced.

2018 Ram ProMaster vs. 2018 Ford Transit

The 2018 Ford Transit is also highly customizable and is loaded with a ton of high-tech equipment, including the Sync3 infotainment system. You can take your pick from multiple fuel-efficient engine options. On the downside, the Transit doesn't have a V8 engine available.

Conclusion

Overall, the 2018 Ram ProMaster struggles to keep pace with its competition. While it has an impressive payload and gets good fuel economy from the diesel engine option, there are other vans in this class that can get the job done with less of a hassle and a better towing capacity.