Does Ram ProMaster Have 4×4 and AWD? The Ultimate Guide

“Does Ram ProMaster Have 4×4 and AWD” remains a vital inquiry that commercial van buyers ask dealers before settling to procure the vehicle and the answer is “no.”

The front-wheel drivetrain feature of this van particularly comes in handy for businesses that operate in regions with harsh weather conditions or uneven terrain. Continue reading this article to determine whether the Ram ProMaster has 4×4 and AWD systems, their availability, and the differences between the drivetrain systems.

Does the Ram ProMaster Come With 4×4 and AWD?

No, the Ram ProMaster does not come with a 4×4 drive and the all-wheel drive as a standard component or as an added option. Instead, this van has front-wheel drive (FWD) available in the standard models. This drivetrain system provides excellent handling and maneuverability, making it ideal for urban environments.

– What Other Features Does the Ram ProMaster Come With?

Some other features teh Ram ProMaster comes with, aside from the front-wheel drive, include a maximum payload capacity of up to 4,680 pounds. It also has a towing capacity reaching 6,910 pounds. It is also equipped with safety technology features, such as the infotainment system and rearview camera.

– What Are the Ram ProMaster Different Models?

The different models the Ram ProMaster comes in include the Ram ProMaster Cargo Van, ProMaster Crew Van, ProMaster Cutaway, ProMaster Window Van and ProMaster Chassis. These van models are well known for their spacious cargo area, fuel efficiency and easy maneuverability, including a conversion for mobile living.

Each of these models can get customized with various available options and accessories to meet the specific needs of a business or commercial application. Earlier models were fitted with the 3.0L EcoDiesel 4-cylinder motor. However, newer models use the single motor, 3.6L Pentastar gasoline engine.

Take a look at each van model below:

• Ram ProMaster Cargo Van. This is the standard model of the RAM ProMaster, designed for transporting cargo. It is available in different wheelbase lengths and roof heights to provide varying levels of cargo space. For instance, you’ll find that the latest 2023 Ram ProMaster cargo van 1500 low roof and Ram ProMaster cargo van 1500 high roof only differ in roof heights.
• Ram ProMaster Window Van. This model resembles the cargo van but has windows on the sides and rear to provide better visibility. With added visibility, you can use this van as a passenger or cargo van.
• Ram ProMaster Chassis Cab. This model is well-suited for commercial purposes, such as utility trucks, flatbeds, or box trucks. The cab and chassis provide a customizable platform for various commercial applications. The van models available are currently built on the 3500, 2500, or 1500 chassis.
• Ram ProMaster Cutaway. This model is a cab and chassis version of the ProMaster designed for commercial applications, such as ambulance or shuttle bus conversions.
• Ram ProMaster City. This is a smaller version of the ProMaster designed for city delivery and small business applications as a cargo van or a passenger wagon.

What Does the Front Wheel Drive System of a Ram ProMaster Mean?

The front-wheel drive (FWD) of a Ram ProMaster is a type of drivetrain system commonly used in automobiles in which the engine’s power is transmitted to the vehicle’s front wheels. This means that the front wheels are responsible for propelling the vehicle forward and steering it.

In an FWD system, the engine gets positioned transversely (sideways) in the engine compartment, and the transmission is usually directly beneath. The power from the engine gets transmitted to the front wheels via drive shafts and constant velocity (CV) joints.

The CV joints allow the wheels to turn while still receiving power from the engine. In addition, the front-wheel drive configuration implies that the ProMaster has a low load floor and wide, tall cargo area, generating maximum cargo space to convey larger loads.

– Benefits and Limitations of the Front Wheel Drive System

Front-wheel drive (FWD) applies in various automobiles like the Ram ProMaster. Like every drivetrain system, the front-wheel drive system has unique benefits and drawbacks.

Check them below:

– Advantages of front-wheel drive

• Good traction in slippery conditions: The engine’s weight lies over the front wheels, which helps to provide better traction on slippery surfaces such as snow, ice, or rain.
• Improved fuel efficiency: FWD vehicles offer lighter weight than those with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), which can lead to better fuel efficiency.
• Lower production costs: FWD systems are generally less expensive to produce than RWD or AWD systems, which can help to keep vehicle prices lower.

– Limitations of front-wheel drive

• Understeer issues: Because the vehicle’s weight lies on the front wheels, FWD vehicles can experience understeer (the tendency to continue in a straight line instead of turning) during hard cornering or high-performance driving.
• Complicated maintenance: FWD vehicle owners often experience complications when it comes to repair and maintenance. And this is due to the need for special tools to work on the CV joints and engine compartment.
• Limited towing capacity: FWD vehicles are generally not recommended for towing heavy loads due to their lower towing capacity.
• Uneven tire wear: In some FWD vehicles, the front tires tend to wear out more quickly than the rear tires due to the uneven weight distribution of the vehicle.

What Are the Differences Between 4×4 and AWD?

The differences between 4×4 (four-wheel drive) and AWD (all-wheel drive) are based on power distribution, off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency, driving conditions, etc. With the drivetrain system, your van can offer excellent traction and stability on uneven terrains to ensure better driving experiences.

Check the differences between the drivetrain systems below:

• Power distribution: 4×4 systems generally provide equal power to all four wheels, while AWD systems can vary the power distribution to each wheel based on traction needs. AWD systems usually send more power to the front or rear wheels during normal driving conditions but can send power to all wheels when needed.
• Off-road capabilities: 4×4 systems are typically designed for off-road use, with features like locking differentials and low-range gearing that allow for better traction and control on rough terrain. AWD systems apply more for on-road use and are generally not suitable for severe off-road conditions
• Fuel efficiency: 4×4 systems are usually heavier than AWD systems, leading to lower fuel efficiency. On the other hand, AWD systems are typically lighter and more fuel-efficient.
• Operation: Drivers can manually engage the 4×4 system, while the AWD systems are usually automatic and can adjust power distribution based on road conditions without the driver’s input.
• Driving conditions: 4×4 systems are best suited for harsh driving conditions like deep snow, mud, or sand. On the flip side, AWD systems drive well on wet or slippery roads and can provide improved handling and stability in normal driving conditions.
• Cost: 4×4 systems are generally more expensive than AWD systems due to their complex design and additional components.

What Vans Come With Four Wheel Drive?

Several vans come with four-wheel drive (4WD) from the factory – such as the Mercedes Sprinter and Ford transit van – and some can be converted to four-wheel drive by an aftermarket company. Keep in mind that the availability of four-wheel drive may depend on the specific model year and trim level.

Here are some of the most popular vans that come with 4×4:

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: The Mercedes Sprinter van remains one of the most popular vans with a selectable four-wheel-drive system. It has high and low-range gearing for improved off-road capability.
• Ford Transit Van: Ford makers enabled the Ford Transit vans with AWD as a factory option. This system helps improve traction and stability on slippery or icy roads. Note that the smaller Ford Transit Connect lacks AWD capacities, and the 2022 Transit model only comes with rear-wheel drive.
• Chevy Express/GMC Savana: The Express and Savana come with an all-wheel drive as a factory option.
• Toyota Sienna: While the Sienna is not a traditional cargo van, it is a popular minivan designed with an AWD system. This makes it helpful for those who need a family vehicle that can handle rough terrain or snowy roads.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee: This vehicle comes equipped with a 4×4. In fact, the four-wheel drive system remains one of the key features that set the Grand Cherokee apart from many other SUVs on the market.

Is Ram ProMaster 4×4 Conversion Possible?

No, a Ram ProMaster 4×4 conversion is not possible. It does not come with the four-wheel drive system from the factory, and there’s no factory 4×4 conversion available. However, there are aftermarket company options available that can convert the Ram ProMaster into a 4×4 vehicle.

This van conversion is usually expensive and may void the vehicle’s warranty. Additionally, the conversion process can take several weeks or months, depending on the company and the specific modifications you want. You should thoroughly research and consult with professionals before modifying your vehicle.

Conclusion

The Ram ProMaster is a versatile and reliable commercial van that meets the various needs of users. While the Ram ProMaster van does not come with a 4×4 and AWD system from the factory, aftermarket options are

available for those needing their respective capabilities.

• The Ram ProMaster does not come with four-wheel drive and the all-wheel drive as a standard component or as an added option. It comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) in the standard models.
• The front-wheel drive provides excellent handling and maneuverability for Ram ProMaster vans, making them ideal for urban environments.
• 4×4 systems are better suited for off-road driving and provide even power distribution between the front and rear wheels
• AWD systems are better suited for on-road driving and provide power distribution to all four wheels, with the ability to adjust power based on road conditions.
• The Ram ProMaster 4×4 conversion is not possible because it does not come with the four-wheel drive system from the factory.

4WD or AWD systems add to the ProMaster van’s maintenance and fuel economy cost. However, it may be worth the investment if you need the added capability and performance.