Emma Davis
Updated September 16, 2022
Vans are extremely versatile vehicles. They can be used for work, long car journeys, carrying bulky items and lots of cargo. But despite their versatility, many drivers choose to convert their vans into motorhomes.
Whatever you use it for, you want to choose a van that fits your lifestyle. For example, do you live in a cold climate? Or do you want to explore the area and drive off-road? If you answered yes, a 4X4 is the best option.
In this article we answer the question: does the Ram Promaster have all-wheel drive or all-wheel drive? We also take a closer look at the Promaster and reveal which vans will have all-wheel drive in 2022.
The Ram Promaster is front-wheel drive only. Like its predecessors, the 2022 model does not have AWD (all-wheel drive), which is available in the standard models or as an add-on option. However, the Ram Promaster is one of the best vans available on the market today.
The front-wheel drive configuration gives the Promaster a low and flat load floor, creating more space for transporting large loads.
There aren't many four-wheel drive vans out there, but the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit are two popular options if that's important to you.
What is an Aries Promaster?
The Ram Promaster is a large van that comes in a variety of sizes. Depending on your wishes, you can choose between a van, a crew carrier, a chassis car, a cutaway or a window car.
Promaster vans are known for their large transport capacity and are among the more affordable large vans on the market. Promaster vans are also a popular choice for people who want to build their own RV.
The Ram Promaster is becoming increasingly popular due to its customization options. The van is based on the chassis of the Ram 3500, 2500 or 1500 and is available in three different wheelbases: 158.9 inches, 135.8 inches and 118 inches.
Promaster vans are also competitive when it comes to headroom, with two factory roof options - 7ft 5" and 8ft 3". The Promaster is also available in four different body lengths, so you can really tailor this transporter to your specific needs!
Available body lengths are 195 inches, 213 inches, 236 inches, and 250 inches.
Between 2014 and 2016, the Ram Promaster was equipped with a 3.0 liter EcoDiesel 4-cylinder engine. However, this was replaced by a single-engine 3.6-litre Pentastar petrol engine.
The engine has 280 hp, a 6-speed automatic transmission from Chrysler and a torque of 260 Nm. This engine is found in all Promaster vans in all their various configurations and was a disappointment to many fans of the diesel engine.
The Promaster Van only has front-wheel drive. If you are looking for a 4×4 van then the Promaster is not the van for you. However, the front wheel drive configuration provides a flat and low floor space, allowing the driver to store and carry even more cargo.
Pros and Cons of Ram ProMaster 2022
You may be saddened that the Promaster bus is not four-wheel drive, and that might be reason enough not to even consider buying this bus.
However, the Ram Promaster offers several advantages and when 4X4 skills are not required, the Promaster is an excellent transporter that you can tailor to your perfect size.
Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of the latest model, the 2022 Ram Promaster.
Advantages
- Less expensive than other large vans on the market.
- The flat and low loading floor.
- Multiple customizable body size options.
- 7.0-inch driver information display.
- Front-wheel drive options.
- 948TE TorqueFlite 9-speed automatic transmission.
- Powerful V6 engine.
- Uconnect 5C NAV with a 10.0 inch touchscreen.
Cons
- No engine upgrade options.
- It doesn't have as many features available as some leading competitors.
- There is no 4x4 or all-wheel drive available for any of the trim levels.
- Low fuel consumption compared to other large vans on the market.
Depending on your needs, the Ram Promaster may be the perfect choice, or it may be missing key areas. It always pays to thoroughly research a vehicle before buying it and to discuss your expectations and needs with the dealer.
The 2022 Ram Promaster has several new features and the new 9-speed gearbox has been fitted to improve engine performance and fuel economy.
Are there 4 wheel drive vans?
As we found out, the Ram Promaster does not have all-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive is not available on any model or trim level. The front-wheel drive configuration has its advantages, but sometimes a four-wheel drive van is essential.
If you're looking for an all-wheel drive or all-wheel drive van, the Promaster may not be the answer, but you'll be glad to know there are options. Here are two of the most popular 4x4 vans to hit the market in 2022:
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
When you hear Mercedes-Benz, you think of luxury, right? The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter lives up to the company's high standards and reputation. This van has a huge cargo capacity and an impressive 600 cubic feet of cargo space!
You can also expect various high-end features in a Sprinter and the 2022 version has more than 1000 different variants.
Do you need a four-wheel drive van? The Sprinter has an advanced four-wheel drive system that allows you to drive off-road and in bad weather conditions while maintaining good grip on the road.
The 2022 model is also available with front and rear wheel drive, as well as the all-wheel drive option. If you're looking for a versatile large van, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is definitely worth considering.
Ford Transit
Another popular large van is the Ford Transit. The Ford Transit van has been around since the 1960s and is known as a reliable van for work and pleasure. Ford Transit vans are equipped with four-wheel drive, making them a good choice if you plan to drive on varied terrain or on cold and icy roads.
Ford Transit vans are equipped with an intelligent AWD system. However, it's important to note that the smaller Ford Transit Connect does not have all-wheel drive and the 2022 model is only available with rear-wheel drive.
The Ford Transit Van has more than 500 cubic feet of cargo space and can tow loads in excess of 4,000 pounds.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of four-wheel drive?
So you want a Ram Promaster but are worried you don't have 4WD? An all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive van offers many benefits, but they are only really worth it under certain driving conditions.
Before looking at the pros and cons of all-wheel drive, let's first discuss the difference between four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
Four-wheel drive vehicles are equipped with an advanced system that is always on. The AWD system constantly monitors and responds to road conditions.
A four-wheel drive vehicle will give you the safest ride because the system transfers power to the tires with the most traction when driving off-road or in icy conditions.
Not all four wheels always have the same traction, the AWD system is constantly on and adapts to the road conditions.
A four-wheel drive vehicle is a little different. In 4×4 mode, all four wheels turn simultaneously and grip the road equally. You often need to activate the 4 wheel drive on a vehicle because it does not run constantly like a 4 wheel drive van.
The four-wheel drive works well when driving on rocky and rough terrain or in wet, snowy and icy conditions. Unlike 4-wheel drive, in 4X4 mode your vehicle does not adjust the performance and traction of each tire individually, all wheels have the same performance.
All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles are similar in that they provide better traction and control than front- or rear-wheel drive vans, cars, or pickups. As with all vehicle features, there are several pros and cons to all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, let's take a closer look:
Advantages
- When all wheels have power and traction, your vehicle has maximum grip on the road.
- Both all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles provide the driver with optimum driving control on any road surface and terrain.
- All-wheel drive and all-wheel drive give the driver more control when driving on icy or snowy roads.
- Riders have better handling and control when riding off-road4×4or four-wheel drive vehicle.
Cons
- 4WD/4WD vehicles are often the most expensive option.
- Repairing and maintaining 4WD or 4x4 mode vehicles is often more expensive than working on a front or rear wheel drive vehicle.
- A four-wheel drive vehicle is heavier than its four-wheel drive counterparts, which can negatively impact fuel economy.
- The extra weight can also result in longer braking distances, increasing the risk of accidents for 4X4 drivers.
- All-wheel drive can give drivers a false sense of confidence and lead them to try to drive off-road or in treacherous terrain without knowing how to do it safely.
The Ram Promaster doesn't come with 4WD or 4WD, but unless you plan on driving in snow or off-road, 4WD and 4WD won't make much of a difference to your driving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you convert ProMaster to 4X4?
The Ram Promaster is front-wheel drive only. The drivetrain is strategically positioned to put extra weight on the front of the wheel, increasing traction of the front wheels on the road.
It is currently not possible to purchase a Promaster with 4WD or 4WD, but some riders have reported success off-roading by changing the tire pressure to 35psi.
If you want an all-wheel drive van, the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, VW Crafter and VW Transporter are popular options.
How much does it cost to convert ProMaster to 4X4?
There is currently no way to convert a Ram Promaster to 4WD. However, when driving off-road, more traction can be achieved by increasing the weight on the front of the vehicle. Some drivers choose to place sandbags in the cargo bed at the front of the van.
You can also try changing the tire pressure to 35 psi to see if that gives you more control in unconventional driving conditions. The Ram Promaster is currently only available in front-wheel drive, but who knows what will happen in the future.
How many miles does a Ram Promaster last?
The Ram Promaster should last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles. However, it is not unusual for a well-maintained Promaster to last up to 300,000 miles, provided it has been driven carefully over the years and all maintenance and repairs have been kept up to date.
Assuming you drive your van about 15,000 miles a year, it should last between 13 and 17 years.
Are Ram Vans Four Wheel Drive?
The Ram Promaster is not available with all-wheel drive. These vans have a single front powertrain and are front wheel drive only. Even the latest 2022 model doesn't have all-wheel drive or all-wheel drive options in any of the configurations.
However, the Ram's unique front-wheel drive provides excellent traction, and the Ram can be driven in adverse weather conditions as long as the road is not too snowy or icy.
Wat is beter Ram Promaster of Ford Transit?
The Ram Promaster and Ford Transit are popular and reliable large vans. Deciding which is better depends on your specific needs. For example, the Ford Transit is four-wheel drive and can tow loads up to 7,500 pounds and carry cargo up to 4,560 pounds.
By comparison, the Ram Promaster is only available with front-wheel drive and can carry more weight—up to 5,160 pounds—but that's about ittow awayThe capacity is only 5,100 pounds.
Diploma
The Ram Promaster is a versatile large van available in many configurations. Unfortunately, it doesn't matter if you have the cargo, crew, cab, window or cutaway version, there's no all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive option.
Currently all Ram Promaster vans are only available with front wheel drive. However, the front-wheel drive in the Ram Promaster continues to provide excellent wheel traction to the driver through model year 2022.
And without the height difference between the front and rear of the vehicle, there's a low surface area for carrying large amounts of cargo.
If you're considering buying a Ram Promaster to convert it into a motorhome, it's a popular option despite the lack of four-wheel drive. The Promaster is popular with people looking to convert their van into a motorhome as it is one of the widest models available.
In a Promaster you can sleep sideways because there is a lot of space and with different length and height configurations it is possible to turn a Promaster into a spacious camper.
For some drivers, all-wheel drive is an absolute must. If you need 4WD or 4WD because you often drive off-road or live in a place where it often snows, there are large vans that offer that option.
Popular four-wheel drive vans include the Ford Transit, the Volkswagen Crafter and Transporter, and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
Get more useful tips from these related Dodge topics:
The 7 Best Aftermarket Headlights for the 2001 Dodge Ram
How much does a ram weigh? (1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, 5500)
How to reset the Dodge Ram throttle position sensor?
FAQs
Does the Ram ProMaster have AWD? ›
The main thing that sets the ProMaster apart from its competitors is its front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration. Every other van in this class has standard rear-wheel drive (RWD), and all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit.
Is the Ram ProMaster rear wheel drive? ›Tradespeople, delivery drivers, and #VanLife influencers will all find something to like with the large ProMaster van, which comes standard with a 280-hp V-6, front-wheel drive, and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Which is bigger Ford Transit or Ram ProMaster? ›Transit have the Largest Interior Height
The interior height of high roof Ford Transit vans is about 81 inches tall while the interior height of high roof Promaster vans is about 76 inches tall. That means Transit vans have an additional 5 inches of interior height. Those numbers are all for the empty interior height.
DOES DODGE GRAND CARAVAN HAVE AWD? Select models of Dodge Grand Caravan were available with all-wheel drive. Its successors, the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Pacifica(Open in a new window), both offer an available AWD system as well.
Can you get Ram ProMaster in 4x4? ›RAM 3500: All models are available in either 4×2 or 4×4. RAM ProMaster: All models come with front-wheel drive. RAM ProMaster City®: Both cargo van and wagon models come with front-wheel drive. RAM Chassis Cab: All models are available in either 4×2 or 4×4.
Do Ram trucks have AWD? ›Full-time FWD is an option with the RAM 1500. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is almost the same as full-time Four-Wheel Drive (4WD). It is also a system that powers all four wheels of a vehicle at all times.
Which cargo van is most reliable? ›1. Ford Transit. The Ford Transit is a versatile and popular cargo van that offers an excellent balance of performance, reliability, and affordability. With three roof heights and three body lengths, it provides ample options for customization to suit the specific needs of any delivery company.
How many miles per gallon does a ProMaster 1500 low roof get? ›33 MPG Combined (est.)
How many miles do Ram Promasters last? ›The average vehicle is expected to run up to 200,000 miles. According to various ProMaster forums like this one, most expect the ProMaster to last at least 250,000. In fact, there are even comments testifying to up to 475,000 miles in a Ram ProMaster.
Which van is better Ford or Ram? ›Engine Performance: Ram ProMaster Van Wins
Between the 2021 Ford Transit and the Ram ProMaster engines, you will see a minor difference in performance ratings. While Ford's commercial van offers a potent transmission option, the new Ram ProMaster provides better horsepower ratings.
Is ProMaster or Transit better? ›
Ford Transit Reliability. The 2022 RAM ProMaster and Ford Transit receive average reliability ratings of about 3.7 out of 5, but many consumers prefer the ProMaster, which is especially popular among the van-dwelling community.
What is the gas mileage on the ProMaster vs Transit? ›The 2019 Ram ProMaster delivers a respectable 21 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 combined. With the 2.0-liter, the 2019 Ford Transit Connect gets up to 24 mpg city, 29 highway, and 26 combined. Moving up to the 2.5-liter engine pushes these ratings down to 20 mpg city, 27 highway, and 22 combined.
What's the difference between AWD and 4WD? ›AWD systems automatically vary power between the front and rear axles and even side to side to the wheel(s) with the most traction. These systems are always active at any speed. 4WD systems are selectable between 2WD (usually RWD) and 4WD via the transfer case. Most transfer cases include 4Low and 4Hi settings.
Does anyone make an AWD van? ›2022 Toyota Sienna
For individuals who require (All-Wheel-Drive) AWD, it is regarded as being the best of the two. When coupled with the hybrid drivetrain, its upmarket design gives the minivan a class that many of its rivals lack. Here are a few characteristics you can anticipate: A pair of power sliding doors.
AWD uses a variable connection that your vehicle can adjust on the fly, at any speed, to shift power where it's needed. 4WD connects your front and rear wheels through a transfer case that splits power evenly, and it's meant to be used at lower speeds and in challenging terrain.
Is Ram 1500 4WD or AWD? ›4WD trucks, such as the Ram 1500, are better equipped for off-roading. This is because power is distributed equally amongst all four wheels at all times when engaged, making it easier to tow heavy loads on slick surfaces or drive through mud and snow.
Are Ram trucks FWD or RWD? ›Like other full-size trucks, Rams default to rear-wheel drive with four-wheel drive (4WD) optional on all but one model.
What is the difference between RAM ProMaster City and SLT? ›2020 Ram Promaster City models
Both are available in Tradesman and SLT trim levels. The main differences between the two are standard equipment, better seats and a less utilitarian appearance. Both vans use a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (178 horsepower, 174 lb-ft) paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
With almost as many variations as the Ram 1500 pickup, Ram offers ProMaster in 1500, 2500, and 3500 classes. The difference in class is basically maximum load capabilities. You may order ProMaster with a regular roof or high roof in panel or window form.