2023 Ram ProMaster
Overview
A box on wheels represents endless possibilities, and the 2023 Ram ProMaster van leans in to that flexibility with several body styles, cargo- or crew-hauling interior layouts, and impressive payload capacity. Tradespeople, delivery drivers, and #VanLife influencers will all find something to like with the large ProMaster van, which comes standard with a 280-hp V-6, front-wheel drive, and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Handling is less refined than rivals such as the Ford Transit and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, though, and those vans can also be ordered with all-wheel drive. But the Ram brings a more comprehensive list of standard equipment, including infotainment and driver-assistance tech.
What’s New for 2023?
Ram’s largest ProMaster work van gets a styling refresh for 2023 that includes a revised front grille, new headlamps, and a reworked front bumper. A complement of new wheel designs is now available and the ProMaster can now be ordered with an extra-high roof option, making it ideal for hauling bulky cargo or for being upfitted as an camper van; buyers can also now choose a roll-up rear door design if they prefer that over the standard hinged-style doors. A new self-parking feature—which can work on both parallel and perpendicular parking spots—is newly available too.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The most economical choice from the Ram ProMaster lineup is the base model 1500 cargo van. For shoppers looking for a sensible work van, the 1500 is a great choice thanks to its useful assortment of standard equipment. The list includes a rear step bumper, a sliding passenger-side door, and a split swing-out rear door, all of which make getting cargo in and out easier. On the inside, there’s a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, air conditioning, and a manually adjustable telescopic steering column. If you need additional towing or payload capacities, the more expensive 2500 or 3500 provide it.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
All ProMaster vans are motivated by a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that provides 276 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission sends power to the front wheels. We haven’t tested the ProMaster with the nine-speed, but the one with the old six-speed automatic made it from zero to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds. That’s a solid enough performance for this class of vehicle, but other vans in this segment are quicker. For example, the Ford Transit made the same sprint in a mere 6.8 seconds. The ProMaster can tow up to 6910 pounds and offers a maximum payload capacity of 4680 pounds. When it comes to overall handling, the Ram ProMaster is notably less refined than many of its rivals. The steering system is loose and numb, and competing vans provide smoother ride quality.
More on the ProMaster Van
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Full-size vans such as the ProMaster are exempt from fuel-economy standards. As a result, the Ram van hasn’t been tested by the EPA. We haven’t tested a ProMaster with the nine-speed automatic transmission, but during our time with a ProMaster with the old six-speed automatic, we observed fuel economy of 14 mpg. That’s equal to the mileage we observed with a Ford Transit.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The ProMaster provides the driver with an expansive, wide-angle view of the road. The cabin looks more spartan than those in rival vans from Ford and Mercedes-Benz, but the overall design is reasonably attractive. While the interior materials mainly consist of hard durable plastics, the dashboard incorporates a host of modern technology. For example, a 7.0-inch configurable display in the gauge cluster and a wireless device charger are both available. The Ram van’s dash also has a large and easily accessible storage tray beneath the glovebox. Those looking to shuttle more than a couple people can opt for the Crew Van package, which includes a second row of seats that’ll fit up to three people. The ProMaster comes with a huge drawback, though: road noise. The Ram just isn’t as effective as some rivals at keeping the din of traffic out of the cabin.
The Car and Driver Difference
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every ProMaster comes with a user-friendly infotainment system that funnels through a 7.0-inch touchscreen. An even larger 10.0-inch unit is also available. Both touchscreens utilize the latest Uconnect5 software, which allows over-the-air updates and offers a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. Likewise, these units allow two devices to simultaneously connect via Bluetooth, include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and have an Amazon Alexa voice-assistant feature.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The ProMaster offers a host of standard and optional driver-assistance features. It even can be ordered with a digital rearview mirror. For more information about the ProMaster’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The ProMaster’s warranty coverage is on par with that offered by Ford, but both the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans come with the perk of a complimentary scheduled maintenance visit.
Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance
More Features and Specs
