Overview
Full-size vans such as the 2022 Ram ProMaster are built to handle a wide range of jobs, which is why their capability and configurability are paramount. This Ram is available as a 1500, 2500, and 3500 model in cargo van, window van, chassis cab, and cutaway body styles, plus two available roof heights and three available wheelbase lengths. The Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter both offer similar options, but they also offer all-wheel drive, higher tow ratings, and quieter cabins. The ProMaster is only available with front-wheel drive and a lone 280-hp V-6 powertrain. While those characteristics limit its capabilities, it does offer a higher payload capacity than either the Ford and Mercedes. The 2022 ProMaster van also has a modern infotainment system with popular standard features, and its roster of driver-assistance tech is extensive, which together give it broader appeal.
What’s New for 2022?
The 2022 Ram ProMaster lineup receives a new transmission and upgraded technology. The former is a nine-speed automatic that replaces the old six-speed unit. The latter includes a plethora of driver assists such as a 360-degree camera system, automatic high-beams, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, front parking sensors, and more. Inside, the ProMaster benefits from a significant makeover, include an updated instrument panel and a newly available second-row-seating package. Plus, there’s a redesigned center stack with new HVAC controls, more charging ports, and a modern infotainment system. Gone is the outdated 5.0-inch display, which is replaced by a standard 7.0- or optional 10.0-inch touchscreen. Both come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa voice assistant, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. A wireless device charger is also newly available.
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 280 horsepower and 260 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 performance, but other vans in this segment are quicker. For example, the Ford Transit made the same sprint in a mere 6.8 seconds, and the Nissan NV took 7.5 seconds to complete the run. The ProMaster can tow up to 6910 pounds, but that’s still less towing power than rivals such as the Transit (7500 pounds). However, the Ram van compensates with its strong payload capability. It can accommodate up to 4680 pounds, giving it a higher payload rating than the Transit. 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.
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 and better than the mileage we observed with a Nissan NV (11 mpg).
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.
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.
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 you’ll get longer protection with the Nissan NV.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Keyword: 2022 Ram ProMaster Review, Pricing, and Specs