2020 Ram ProMaster Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

With many practical features and an interior that can be customized, the 2020 Ram ProMaster makes sense for anyone who needs a large vehicle that will be ready to get to work. This full-size van can be set up as a cargo van or a passenger vehicle, and it can also be hooked up to a custom body. With its ample size and solid engine, the RamPromaster can handle a lot, and it would be a smart investment if someone is specifically looking for a large vehicle for professional reasons.

What's New for 2020?

A notable addition to the 2020 model year is a new wheelbase. There are some trims that can now be configured with a wheelbase that measures 136 inches. This wheelbase gives people a middle-of-the-road option in addition to the 118- and 159-inch versions. Another change for this year is that the van can be outfitted with a factory-installed trailer hitch that increases towing capacity over what was previously seen.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Ram ProMaster – The Pros

1. Multiple Cargo Lengths

The 2020 Ram ProMaster can have a cargo length of 8, 10, 12, or 13 feet. Having all of these available configurations makes the van more appealing, especially considering that people from various industries are primarily the ones shopping for work vans. Regardless of length, the width of the cargo area is 6'3". Ram didn't want to go too wide since that would create other issues for fitting inside garages and parking spaces.

2. Choose a High or Standard Roof

In addition to getting to choose their cargo length, consumers will also get to decide whether they need a standard roof or a high roof. For some, the extra height would be desirable because it would allow them to pack in more items. That taller roof would also be better so people can get around in the back without bumping their heads.

The standard roof comes with the 8- and 10-foot vans, with the smaller van being exclusively offered with the standard roof. While the 10-foot van can have either the standard or high roof, which measure 5'6" and 6'5", respectively, the longer vans are only offered as high-roof vans.

3. Ideal Floor Height

The height of the cargo floor in the Ram ProMaster is 21 inches. This makes the van more practical because it makes it easier to load and unload heavy items. When carrying heavy items or bulky equipment, a few inches can make a big difference. Considering that those items could be valuable, these few inches can actually be very important.

4. Available Upfits

What's great about the 2020 Ram ProMaster is that it can come with various upfits, depending on people's needs. An electrical contractor, for example, might need storage for connectors and other small items. A general contractor, on the other hand, may need areas for larger equipment and would benefit from having adjustable shelving. There are also delivery and plumbing upfits that specifically cater to what Ram believes those types of professionals would need. Having a well-organized van will ensure that people can fit all of their cargo and be able to quickly find what they're looking for.

5. Different Models Available

Not only does the Ram ProMaster have the options previously described, but it also comes in a few different trims and styles. The cargo van is perhaps the most popular because of its ability to hold so much equipment. The window van lets in more light, and the chassis cab and cutaway models can be paired with many types of bodies. Note that the chassis cab has some more versatility as a commercial vehicle than the cutaway model.

Additionally, the Ram ProMaster can be a 1500, 2500, or 3500 version, with the higher models coming with more slightly nicer amenities and components that add to their durability.

6. Impressive Payload

Maximum payload in the 2020 Ram ProMaster is 4,680 pounds. This gives people the ability to load all kinds of gear or equipment in their vehicles. Whether this consists of heavy ladders, power tools, lumber, large appliances, or anything else, workers will be able to transport what they need to in order to fulfill their responsibilities.

Plus, the floor of the van can be covered with a Mopar load floor. The Mopar package consists of aluminum ramps that will live up to a lot of wear and tear as well as an anti-slip surface. People and cargo alike would benefit from not slipping in the back of the van, whether it's in motion or stationary. The composite base of the Mopar floor can keep everything safe and potentially extend the life of the vehicle.

7. Surprisingly Easy to Maneuver

Though the van is hefty in some regards, it's actually pretty agile. It has a 36-foot turning diameter, which is actually the best turning diameter in its class. There's not much need to worry about taking a sharp turn or being able to turn around in a driveway since the van is easily maneuvered.

8. Powerful Engine

Under the hood of the 2020 Ram ProMaster is a 3.6-liter V6 engine. This Pentastar engine is efficient and capable. These are two qualities that are highly desired by people who are out on the roads for most of their days.

The engine can generate 280 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, giving drivers the power they need to go anywhere and handle a variety of situations. Ram has paired the engine with a six-speed automatic transmission to enhance the smoothness of the ride.

9. Affordably Priced

Starting not too much over $30,000, the 2020 Ram ProMaster can be a good investment. While this is a large chunk of money to hand over, having a reliable vehicle is an essential part of doing business in many sectors. Spending more money on a higher trim does mean that people will get more features related to comfort and convenience, but really, the base model is still a solid vehicle.

10. Simple to Maintain

As a front-wheel drive vehicle, the Ram ProMaster offers many benefits. Ram has manufactured its work vans to have front-wheel drive for a reason, as this set-up requires less parts than an all-wheel drive drivetrain. Having less parts means that there's less that can go wrong, and overall, maintenance is kept to a minimum. People who have to mind their budgets will appreciate having a relatively low cost of ownership.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Ram ProMaster – The Cons

1. Driver-Assist Features are Missing

In a modern era in which so many innovations are occurring in the automotive market, one way in which consumers benefit is in terms of safety. There are many kinds of driver-assist systems found on all types of vehicles, and they have abilities like hitting the brakes to avoid accidents and warning drivers when they're veering out of a lane. Unfortunately, the 2020 Ram ProMaster does not have these components.

What the van does have is a back-up camera. Given the size of the vehicle, this is a very key safety component that will help drivers avoid hitting objects when they're backing up.

2. Lack of Technology

The cabin of the Ram ProMaster feels quite basic. With many trims, drivers and passengers in the van will have to deal with an entertainment system that consists of a small touchscreen and an outdated feel. There is the option to upgrade, though, so people could always pay extra to get SiriusXM Satellite Radio and navigation.

3. Towing Capacity Could Be Beefed Up

One might think that such a large vehicle like the Ram ProMaster would be able to tow an impressive amount of cargo. That's note exactly the case here, though. While having a maximum towing capacity of 6,910 pounds is respectable, it doesn't hit the mark that many other rivals have. Considering that most people will be looking at the van for professional reasons, this could be an important factor in whether the RamPromaster makes the grade.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

The work van market is fairly limited, and the main competitors to the Ram Promaster are the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The Sprinter has a diesel engine, which certainly has some benefits to it, but the drawback is that it can be harder to find a gas station that has diesel in addition to unleaded fuel. In addition, the Sprinter is more expensive than the ProMaster, making it a tougher sell for those on a limited budget. Compared to the Ford Transit, the 2020 Ram ProMaster has more options related to the size of the cargo area, allowing people to find the right combination of features.

Conclusion

As a full-size work van, the 2020 Ram ProMaster is ideal for several reasons. A powerful engine has been put into the van, and the ride is stable. With an enviable turn radius, the Ram ProMaster is very maneuverable, and this is an added bonus on top of the vehicle being reliable and practical to drive around town as people go about their business.