Fuel efficiency face-off: ram promaster van vs ford transit, who wins the mileage race?

When it comes to choosing the perfect workhorse for your business, the Ram ProMaster Van and the Ford Transit stand out as two of the most popular options. Both offer a spacious interior, impressive towing capacity, and a range of features to meet the demands of various industries. But which one is the right choice for you?

This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the Ram ProMaster Van and the Ford Transit, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

Interior Space and Versatility

The Ram ProMaster Van boasts a generous interior volume of 530 cubic feet, providing ample room for cargo or passengers. Its tall roof height and wide cargo area make it ideal for transporting bulky items or tall equipment.

The Ford Transit offers a slightly smaller interior volume of 487 cubic feet, but it compensates with its versatile seating configurations. The Transit can be equipped with up to 15 seats, making it a suitable choice for transporting both cargo and passengers.

Payload and Towing Capacity

The Ram ProMaster Van has an impressive payload capacity of up to 4,680 pounds, while the Ford Transit offers a maximum payload capacity of 4,290 pounds. Both vans can handle heavy loads, but the ProMaster Van has a slight edge in this area.

When it comes to towing, the Ram ProMaster Van can tow up to 9,350 pounds, while the Ford Transit has a slightly higher towing capacity of 9,500 pounds. Both vans are capable of towing trailers, campers, or other heavy equipment.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency

The Ram ProMaster Van is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Ford Transit offers a range of engine options, including a 3.5-liter V6 with 275 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, as well as a more powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Ram ProMaster Van has an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city/23 mpg highway, while the Ford Transit with the 3.5-liter V6 engine offers 18 mpg city/21 mpg highway. The EcoBoost V6 engine provides slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 16 mpg city/19 mpg highway.

Technology and Features

Both the Ram ProMaster Van and the Ford Transit offer a range of technology features to enhance convenience and safety. The ProMaster Van comes standard with a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Transit features a larger 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems include Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and smartphone integration.

In terms of safety features, the Ram ProMaster Van comes standard with a rearview camera, while the Ford Transit offers a more comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

Pricing and Value

The Ram ProMaster Van has a starting price of $33,945, while the Ford Transit starts at $34,295. The ProMaster Van is slightly more affordable, but the Transit offers a wider range of engine options and technology features.

Which Van is Right for You?

The Ram ProMaster Van is an excellent choice for businesses that require a spacious interior, high payload capacity, and towing capability. It’s also a more affordable option than the Ford Transit.

The Ford Transit is a good choice for businesses that prioritize versatility, technology, and safety features. It offers a range of seating configurations, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and a more comprehensive suite of safety technologies.

Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations

Purpose of Use: Consider the primary purpose of the van and the specific requirements of your business. Determine if you need a van primarily for cargo transportation, passenger transport, or a combination of both.

Size and Configuration: Pay attention to the interior volume, cargo capacity, and seating configurations of each van. Choose the one that best aligns with your space and seating needs.

Payload and Towing Capacity: Determine the maximum weight you need to carry or tow. The Ram ProMaster Van has a slight edge in payload capacity, while the Ford Transit offers a slightly higher towing capacity.

Fuel Efficiency: Consider the fuel efficiency of each van, especially if you anticipate frequent long-distance travel. The Ram ProMaster Van has a slightly better fuel economy than the Ford Transit.

Technology and Features: Evaluate the technology features and safety features offered by each van. Determine which features are essential for your business and which ones are optional.

Budget and Value: Set a budget and compare the pricing and value of each van. Consider the initial cost, ongoing maintenance costs, and potential resale value.

Availability and Dealer Support: Research the availability of each van in your area and the quality of dealer support. Choose a van that has a strong dealer network and a reputation for reliable service.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which van has the largest interior volume?

The Ram ProMaster Van has a larger interior volume of 530 cubic feet compared to the Ford Transit‘s 487 cubic feet.

2. Which van has the higher payload capacity?

The Ram ProMaster Van has a higher payload capacity of 4,680 pounds compared to the Ford Transit‘s 4,290 pounds.

3. Which van has the more powerful engine?

The Ford Transit offers a more powerful engine option with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, which produces 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.

4. Which van has the better fuel economy?

The Ram ProMaster Van has a slightly better fuel economy than the Ford Transit, with an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city/23 mpg highway compared to the Transit’s 18 mpg city/21 mpg highway.

5. Which van has more technology features?

The Ford Transit offers a wider range of technology features, including a larger touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and a more comprehensive suite of safety technologies.