2018 Ram ProMaster City: A Compact Cargo Companion
The 2018 Ram ProMaster City is a compact commercial van designed to tackle urban deliveries and business needs with agility and efficiency. Built on a car-like unibody platform, it offers a more car-like driving experience than traditional body-on-frame vans, making it a popular choice for small businesses and tradespeople navigating city streets.
Highlights
- Engine and Performance:
- 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir2 I4 Engine: This robust four-cylinder engine produces 178 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. It's tuned for a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it well-suited for city driving with frequent stops and starts.
- 9-Speed Automatic Transmission: Paired with the Tigershark engine, the nine-speed automatic transmission provides smooth gear changes and helps optimize fuel economy by keeping the engine in its most efficient operating range.
- Front-Wheel Drive: Standard front-wheel drive offers excellent traction in most urban conditions and contributes to the van's maneuverability.
- Safety Features:
- ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera: Provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when reversing, assisting with parking and avoiding obstacles.
- Electronic Roll Mitigation and Electronic Stability Control: These systems actively monitor the vehicle's behavior and can intervene by applying brakes to individual wheels or reducing engine power to help prevent rollovers and maintain stability during challenging maneuvers.
- Advanced Airbag System: Includes advanced multistage front airbags, side-curtain airbags for front and rear passengers, and supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags to offer comprehensive occupant protection.
- Available ParkSense Rear Park Assist System: Uses ultrasonic sensors to detect obstacles behind the vehicle and provides audible alerts to the driver, further enhancing parking safety.
- Trim Summary:
- Tradesman: The foundational trim, offering essential functionality for businesses. It comes equipped with the core powertrain and safety features, focusing on cargo capacity and utility.
- SLT: Builds upon the Tradesman by adding more comfort and convenience features. This typically includes things like upgraded interior trim, power windows and locks, and potentially cruise control, making it a more pleasant vehicle for daily use.
- Notable Aspects:
- Exceptional Cargo Capacity for its Size: Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the ProMaster City boasts an impressive amount of cargo volume (up to 131.7 cubic feet) and payload capacity (up to 1,890 lbs), making it highly practical for transporting goods.
- Agile Maneuverability: Its relatively small footprint and tight turning radius make it incredibly easy to navigate narrow city streets, crowded parking lots, and tight loading docks.
- Versatile Cargo Space: The wide rear doors and available passenger-side sliding door provide easy access to the cargo area, and the configurable interior allows for various upfitting options to suit specific business needs.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2018 Ram ProMaster City generally revolves around its practical and utilitarian nature. You can expect a vehicle that is straightforward to drive, with a commanding view of the road and a relatively comfortable ride for a commercial van. The 2.4L engine provides adequate power for city driving and highway cruising, though it might feel strained when fully loaded or at higher elevations.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance will be similar to other modern vehicles, including regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks. The unibody construction and front-wheel-drive setup generally contribute to predictable maintenance needs. Finding qualified technicians familiar with the ProMaster City's specific components should not be an issue given its ties to the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (now Stellantis) network.
Insurance: Insurance costs will vary based on your location, driving record, and the specific usage of the van (e.g., personal use vs. commercial delivery). As a commercial vehicle, it may be subject to different insurance rates than a passenger car. It's advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the most competitive rates.
Potential Considerations
- Engine Power for Heavy Loads or Hills: While the 2.4L engine is competent for most urban tasks, it can feel underpowered when the van is fully loaded or when tackling steep inclines. Business owners in hilly regions or those frequently hauling very heavy loads might find it beneficial to consider other options.
- Noisy Engine Under Load: The Tigershark engine can become quite vocal when pushed, especially under acceleration or when climbing hills. This is not uncommon in commercial vehicles, but it's something to be aware of if a quiet cabin is a high priority.
- Limited Passenger Capacity: The ProMaster City is primarily designed as a cargo van. While it can be configured with a passenger seat, its passenger-carrying capability is limited, making it less suitable for transporting large groups of people.
- Ride Quality on Rough Surfaces: While it offers a more car-like ride than some truck-based vans, the suspension can still transmit some road imperfections into the cabin, particularly when the cargo area is empty.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Ram ProMaster City is a highly competent and practical compact commercial van that excels in urban environments. Its combination of agility, cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency makes it a compelling choice for businesses that require a versatile workhorse for deliveries and services. While its engine power might be a consideration for certain demanding applications, its overall functionality and ease of use solidify its position as a smart option for navigating the challenges of city-based commerce.