Forum Discussion

My_Roadtrek's avatar
My_Roadtrek
Explorer
Jan 14, 2014

Let's talk about the Dodge Promaster Van

Anything Promaster related. What up-fitters are going to build on it, gas/diesel, mileage, tire size, seats, floor plans, sizes, etc.
All I ask is to keep it about the Dodge Promaster.

  • This was discussed on the ProMaster forums. The towing capacity of the van is anemic compared to classic Ford or Chevy vans because of the smaller engine and the fact that the van is a unibody vehicle, as opposed to the ladder frame of the older models.

    So far, there are no complaints on the PM forums where they are using vans for work and courier service, even up and down elevations. The Pentastar engine is a common rail fuel injection system, so it does as best for maximum fuel power and efficiency that a normally aspirated engine can do.

    Supposedly in six months, the ProMaster is getting a turbo diesel and an automated manual transmission. This will be an interesting offering, as the engine (which is a renamed MultiJet that is the biggest size available in European Ducatos) isn't that new (the US emissions is, however), but the transmission is definitely new for the US.
  • Isn't the Pentastar gas V6 the biggest engine that is going into the van? Is that really enough power for a fully loaded B? Can't imagine pulling anything behind it with that power plant.
  • How will the ProMaster seat air bags deploy and where exactly are the located?
    I'm for all the safety features available.
  • Starting in model year 2014, Sprinters have airbags in the seats. Transits also will have that as well.

    As was pointed out, seat comfort will be a big issue as replacements will not be available, so a test drive will be critical.
  • The ProMaster seats do have standard air bags. Don't know about the others. I don't believe the Sprinters do
  • I have heard the front seats, in the Promaster, and all the new vans, will have attached air bags, and the up-fitters will not be allowed to change them in any way. No extra foam, or new coverings.
    Seat comfort may be something to consider in a new purchase.
  • I've been reading MPG numbers are pretty decent. The diesel Sprinter, especially the 2014 with the four-banger is still ahead, but the difference isn't that large. I've also read that the front wheel drive has very good traction on ice/snow. Driving position is like a T1N Sprinter, where it is more like a bus or semi than a car.
  • Winnebago are currently making two models. The Travato and the slightly bigger Trend ( with dual rear wheels).

    Beverley & Ken