Ram ProMaster First Generation (2014-present)

Single generation since 2014 model year. Built at Stellantis Saltillo, Mexico. Underlying Sevel platform (Fiat / PSA-developed, now Stellantis-owned), shared with Fiat Ducato sold globally and the Citroën Jumper / Peugeot Boxer / Opel Movano in Europe — the Ducato is the European market leader in the full-size van segment by volume. The ProMaster came to North America when Fiat acquired Chrysler in 2009-2014, with Ram leveraging the Ducato's existing development and Saltillo capacity for US production. Single powertrain in current US market: 3.6L Pentastar V6 (276 hp / 250 lb-ft), 9-speed ZF 9HP automatic transmission (replacing earlier 6-speed automatic on 2020+ models), FWD only. Earlier generations offered a 3.0L EcoDiesel I4 turbo-diesel option (174 hp / 295 lb-ft, 2014-2018) which was discontinued in the US after 2018 due to Stellantis emissions compliance issues. The FWD layout is the ProMaster's defining trait vs RWD-based Ford Transit and RWD/AWD-based Mercedes-Benz Sprinter — front-wheel-drive provides several advantages: best maneuverability in the segment (tighter turning circle than RWD vans), lowest cargo floor in the segment (no rear driveshaft / differential housing intrudes into cargo area), better front traction in slippery conditions, and simpler service (no rear differential to maintain). Trade-offs: lower towing capacity (5,100 lb max vs 7,500+ on Transit / 6,800+ on Sprinter), no AWD or 4WD option (Sprinter offers 4WD which is unique in the segment for camper / overland use), front wheel weight distribution issues when fully loaded with cargo over the rear axle. Multiple body styles: ProMaster Cargo Van (3 wheelbase options: 136-inch standard, 159-inch long, 159-inch high roof / extended; with cargo capacity from 259 to 463 cu ft), ProMaster Window Van / Crew (passenger configuration with rear seating), ProMaster Cab Chassis (for upfitters, RV manufacturers, box trucks). 2024 mid-cycle update: refreshed front fascia (more cohesive Ram corporate face), revised tail lamps, updated 5-inch touchscreen on cargo base or 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen on top trims (the 10.1-inch is Stellantis's standard infotainment platform), available Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go on top trims, refined cabin trim and seat materials. Standard equipment: Forward Collision Warning with auto-brake (added 2024), wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto (2024+ trims), backup camera. Pricing varies wildly by configuration: Cargo Van starting ~$45k base at standard 136-inch wheelbase, Window / Crew Van $50-58k, High Roof Cargo Van $52-62k, Cab Chassis $48-55k base depending on chassis cab specification. Finished RV camper-van conversions built on ProMaster chassis $80-180k+ depending on builder (Winnebago Solis, Thor Sequence, several independent upfitter shops use ProMaster as the base chassis — typically chosen for the FWD layout's lower floor and better maneuverability vs Sprinter). The ProMaster's delivery / parcel company popularity is significant — FedEx Ground, UPS, Amazon Logistics, USPS contract deliveries, and many regional delivery services use ProMaster fleets. Discontinuation rumored by 2027 as Stellantis pivots heavily toward electrified products — but no firm timeline as of 2026.