2019 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van Review: No-Frills Cargo Hauler

For transporting the maximum amount of cargo in an enclosed space, there's no substitute for a traditional cargo van. And while the Ram ProMaster appears as van-like as its competitors, it bucks tradition in this segment in one key area: it's front-wheel-drive. This layout brings with it both advantages and disadvantages, the ProMaster having good interior space, but losing out to some competitors with its maximum towing capacity. That said, a range of body styles and lengths, a strong V6 engine, and excellent payload capacity make this a strong contender alongside the likes of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit. Available in 1500, 2500 and 3500 levels, the latter two versions feature a heavy-duty suspension thanks to their increased payload capacities.

What's the Price of the 2019 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van?

The cheapest Ram ProMaster Cargo Van is the 1500 with a low roof and the 118-inch wheelbase at $30,895. Equipped with the 136-inch wheelbase, the price rises to $32,995, and to $33,595 when the high roof is added.

The 2500 series starts at $34,595 for the high-roof, 136-inch wheelbase variant. With the 159-inch wheelbase, it'll cost $36,395.

The largest 159-inch wheelbase high-roof 3500 series starts at $37,645, rising to $40,395 for the extended-length version.

All prices exclude a destination charge of $1,695, tax, licensing, and registration.

2019 ProMaster Cargo Van Exterior

Dimensions

2019 ProMaster Cargo Van Performance

Handling and Driving Impressions

The ProMaster has a noticeably short hood, so it feels as though the road is right beneath you. The large van is surprisingly easy to control around town, and more so than many competitors. Forward visibility is also excellent, with an expansive view out.

While the effortless steering makes city driving satisfyingly easy, it doesn't translate to the open road, where the ProMaster requires regular inputs to keep the van tracking in a straight line, which quickly becomes tiresome. Ride comfort is rather firm when the van is empty, with a partial load improving matters somewhat. Fully loaded with cargo, the ProMaster is less sensitive to crosswinds and feels a lot more planted. It never quite approaches the versatility of a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, with the German having a better spread of comfort whether fully loaded or not. Being front-wheel-drive, and with the engine's weight over the front axle, the ProMaster offers reassuring grip in slippery conditions, although the setup is not as ideal as RWD or AWD for towing purposes.

2019 ProMaster Cargo Van Interior

2019 ProMaster Cargo Van Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

Verdict: Is the 2019 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van A Good Minivan?

As a cargo van, the ProMaster does most of what you'd expect of it. A cavernous and easily accessible cargo area will be a boon for delivery men and countless other businesses everywhere, and they'll also appreciate the ease of loading cargo, especially in variants equipped with the high roof. The V6 engine performs well, and the maximum payload capacity of 4,680 lbs is competitive in the segment. However, rivals like the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Cargo Van outclass the Ram on the road, while boasting superior towing capacities - although both are more expensive. The ProMaster also lacks driver-assist safety technologies, has a rather uncomfortable driving position, and the ride is firm when unladen. Still, it ticks the most important boxes for a cargo van, and is at least worthy of a test drive.

What Ram ProMaster Cargo Van Model Should I Buy?

Your choice of ProMaster Cargo Van will depend entirely on the amount and weight of cargo you need to transport. So, we'll leave that choice up to you, but we do think there are a few ways to make this a more comfortable, livable cargo van.

The Interior Cargo Rack Package is excellent for storing smaller items within the cargo area, but does also require you to add in one of the cargo partitions. Uconnect 3 with navigation is a worthwhile upgrade for cargo van drivers who will often be visiting new locations on the job, and we'd also throw in the six-way adjustable seats in an effort to maximize comfort (along with lumbar adjustment). These extras will add $2,885 to the cost of your chosen configuration.

2019 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van Comparisons

2019 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van vs Ford Transit Cargo Van

Although starting at a slightly higher price point than the Ram, the Ford Transit is an excellent and versatile cargo van that offers an almost unreal number of configurations to suit just about every need. With a turbodiesel and a 310 horsepower V6, there's also more on offer in the Transit's selection of engines. Dynamically, the Ford also outclasses the ProMaster, as it's both more responsive and comfortable. As a cargo van, the Ford doesn't disappoint, being able to accommodate up to 487.2 cubic feet of cargo - higher than the ProMaster's maximum 462.9 cubes, while the Ford also has the superior towing capacity. Inside, the Ram is the one that feels more van-like, with a driving position that few will love, and a dashboard that isn't as modern as the Ford's. The Ford Transit is easily the superior cargo van between these two.

2019 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van vs Nissan NV Cargo

Another accomplished cargo hauler stands in the Ram ProMaster's way, and this time it's the Nissan NV Cargo. With two powerful engines - including a 375-horsepower V8 - the NV200 has no trouble carrying around lots of cargo. There are two roof and three payload options, although just one wheelbase which means that the ProMaster offers a greater range of configurations. It shows in the cargo capacities and payloads of the two vans, with the ProMaster having a maximum payload capacity of over 800 lbs more than the NV, while the Ram's maximum cargo capacity is 139.8 cubic feet greater than the Nissan's. A far larger turning circle makes the NV less maneuverable than the ProMaster, although the Nissan does ride more smoothly. The Japanese van also has the nicer interior, and although neither van is well-equipped, the Nissan at least offers a choice of trims. However, thanks to its impressive cargo-hauling figures, the Ram is the superior cargo van.