2021 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van Review

The Ram ProMaster Cargo Van is among the small crop of modern work vans that sit atop a streamlined, passenger car-type chassis, rather than the tall truck frames of yesterday's vans. This design makes for more nimble maneuvering, improved fuel efficiency and smarter use of interior space without sacrificing capability.

The ProMaster Cargo stands apart from its rivals, however, with a front-wheel-drive layout and three available van lengths. The ProMaster's entire drivetrain sits under the front cab, so its load floor sits just 21 inches above the ground, lowest in the class, and ideal when handling bulky, awkward objects. An 118-inch wheelbase version, shortest in the class, is also available for buyers who want a capable but compact van.

Front-drive cars often sacrifice capability for efficiency, but the ProMaster Cargo can handle up to 4,680 pounds of payload or tow up to 6,910 pounds when properly configured. These are comparable specs to those of the Ford Transit, which is a key full-size van rival. If you drive in a wet and snowy climate, a Transit or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which offer available all-wheel drive, might be a better choice. These vans are also a little more refined to drive. But overall the ProMaster is a capable work van that'll get the job done.