Ram ProMaster City (2022)
Compact, capable, and efficient for city work, but reliability concerns warrant caution.
The 2022 Ram ProMaster City is a nimble, box-on-wheels problem solver for small businesses that need enclosed cargo without full-size-van bulk. Its 1,890-pound payload, sliding doors, and barn doors make deliveries and trades work genuinely practical, while the compact footprint, clear visibility, and roughly 24 mpg combined support easier city driving and lower running costs. Experts generally praise its lively engine, smooth nine-speed automatic, and comfortable ride, broadly supporting Ram’s utility claims, though users report cramped loading for bulky gear, dated technology, and intrusive highway noise. The bigger question is durability, with oil use, hard shifts, and component failures reported by some owners. It offers solid utility for the money, but maintenance history and warranty coverage heavily influence its overall recommendation.
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Benefits
Small dimensions make parking, tight turns, and crowded delivery routes noticeably easier.
Good fuel economy helps reduce stops and keeps routine business driving more manageable.
High payload and boxy storage handle tools, supplies, and everyday delivery loads confidently.
Comfortable seats and clear sightlines make long workdays and frequent stops easier.
Cargo and Wagon layouts support work routes, passenger trips, camping, and family errands.
Trade-Offs
Loud road and exhaust noise can make highway conversations harder and longer drives less relaxing.
The small, dated touchscreen makes everyday audio controls and phone interaction feel needlessly cumbersome.
Shorter, less upright cargo space can leave larger tools or crew gear awkwardly packed.
Reported oil use, hard shifts, and repairs can interrupt otherwise dependable workday routines.
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YouTube
8 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Scotty KilmerScotty Kilmer is strongly negative on the Ram ProMaster City, despite acknowledging its useful space and lively performance. He credits the 2.4-liter engine with decent pickup, the ZF nine-speed automatic with smooth shifting, and the van with a comfortable ride, maneuverability, and roughly 25–27 mpg. However, he is alarmed that this nearly new van reportedly burns oil and makes pronounced startup noise, interpreting both as signs of poor engine quality. His practical advice is to lease rather than buy, since warranty coverage limits the risk; for long-term ownership, he recommends avoiding it.
Shooting CarsZach is warmly positive about the Ram ProMaster City, enjoying its maneuverability and practical fleet-focused design. He praises the clear backup-camera display, useful cargo access, shelving, tactile controls, and solid nine-speed automatic, while acknowledging that acceleration is merely adequate, the seats are firm, and the cargo area feels shorter and less upright than a Ford Transit Connect. His most distinctive conclusion is that neither van clearly wins; for fleet buyers, local dealer support and the purchase deal matter more than small differences.
Scotty KilmerScotty Kilmer is strongly negative on the Ram ProMaster City, despite acknowledging its useful space and lively performance. He credits the 2.4-liter engine with decent pickup, the ZF nine-speed automatic with smooth shifting, and the van with a comfortable ride, maneuverability, and roughly 25–27 mpg. However, he is alarmed that this nearly new van reportedly burns oil and makes pronounced startup noise, interpreting both as signs of poor engine quality. His practical advice is to lease rather than buy, since warranty coverage limits the risk; for long-term ownership, he recommends avoiding it.
Shooting CarsZach is warmly positive about the Ram ProMaster City, enjoying its maneuverability and practical fleet-focused design. He praises the clear backup-camera display, useful cargo access, shelving, tactile controls, and solid nine-speed automatic, while acknowledging that acceleration is merely adequate, the seats are firm, and the cargo area feels shorter and less upright than a Ford Transit Connect. His most distinctive conclusion is that neither van clearly wins; for fleet buyers, local dealer support and the purchase deal matter more than small differences.
Scotty KilmerScotty Kilmer is strongly negative on the Ram ProMaster City, despite acknowledging its useful space and lively performance. He credits the 2.4-liter engine with decent pickup, the ZF nine-speed automatic with smooth shifting, and the van with a comfortable ride, maneuverability, and roughly 25–27 mpg. However, he is alarmed that this nearly new van reportedly burns oil and makes pronounced startup noise, interpreting both as signs of poor engine quality. His practical advice is to lease rather than buy, since warranty coverage limits the risk; for long-term ownership, he recommends avoiding it.
Shooting CarsZach is warmly positive about the Ram ProMaster City, enjoying its maneuverability and practical fleet-focused design. He praises the clear backup-camera display, useful cargo access, shelving, tactile controls, and solid nine-speed automatic, while acknowledging that acceleration is merely adequate, the seats are firm, and the cargo area feels shorter and less upright than a Ford Transit Connect. His most distinctive conclusion is that neither van clearly wins; for fleet buyers, local dealer support and the purchase deal matter more than small differences.
Scotty KilmerScotty Kilmer is strongly negative on the Ram ProMaster City, despite acknowledging its useful space and lively performance. He credits the 2.4-liter engine with decent pickup, the ZF nine-speed automatic with smooth shifting, and the van with a comfortable ride, maneuverability, and roughly 25–27 mpg. However, he is alarmed that this nearly new van reportedly burns oil and makes pronounced startup noise, interpreting both as signs of poor engine quality. His practical advice is to lease rather than buy, since warranty coverage limits the risk; for long-term ownership, he recommends avoiding it.
Shooting CarsZach is warmly positive about the Ram ProMaster City, enjoying its maneuverability and practical fleet-focused design. He praises the clear backup-camera display, useful cargo access, shelving, tactile controls, and solid nine-speed automatic, while acknowledging that acceleration is merely adequate, the seats are firm, and the cargo area feels shorter and less upright than a Ford Transit Connect. His most distinctive conclusion is that neither van clearly wins; for fleet buyers, local dealer support and the purchase deal matter more than small differences.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Redditors are cautiously positive about the 2022 Ram ProMaster City, though reliability concerns remain. Owners praise its strong, economical performance, useful compact size, easy maneuverability, and ability to handle daily driving, camping, and mild dirt roads. Its width and practical layout appeal to weekend users, while some consider it too cramped for crews or heavy commercial equipment. The major reservations involve reports of oil consumption, premature engine or transmission failures, and uneven reliability, especially in earlier models. Overall, it seems appealing when space and price matter, but buyers should verify maintenance history and avoid assuming it is trouble-free.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Cargo AccessDesigned with sliding doors and barn doors.
- •Payload CapacityAdvertised to carry up to 1,890 pounds.
- •City ManeuveringDesigned for tight streets, lots, and garages.
- •Fuel EconomyReviewers report efficient 25–32 mpg operation.
Considerations
- •Reliability ConcernsOwners report oil use, failures, and hard shifts.
- •Cargo ConstraintsShorter height limits bulky or crew-oriented loads.
- •Cabin NoiseRoad and exhaust noise intrude on highways.
- •Dated TechnologySmall touchscreen and basic audio feel outdated.
Ram’s ProMaster City is a compact work van built for businesses that value urban maneuverability over maximum size. Positioned below full-size commercial vans and competing with the Ford Transit Connect, it serves delivery drivers, tradespeople, fleets, and weekend converters with a practical layout, 131.7 cubic feet of cargo space, and a useful 1,890-pound payload. Its 2.4-liter engine, nine-speed automatic, and front-wheel-drive packaging aim to keep daily operation straightforward and economical, while dual sliding doors and barn doors simplify loading. Real-world feedback is encouraging but limited, with reviewers praising efficiency and visibility while raising questions about cabin noise and long-term reliability. The sections ahead examine its carrying and towing ability, city-friendly dimensions, fuel use, drivetrain behavior, and ownership risks—because the right small van should fit both the parking space and the workload.
Payload and Towing Capability
This compact van carries more working weight than its size suggests. Ram rates the ProMaster City for up to 1,890 pounds of payload, covering cargo, passengers, and equipment, plus 2,000 pounds of towing with the appropriate hitch. That combination suits deliveries, mobile trades, and light trailers better than its compact footprint might imply. Brand claims are supported by comparisons favoring it over the Transit Connect, though payload depends on configuration and loading. It is still not a substitute for a larger van when crews or heavy machinery are involved.
Build Quality and Reliability
Reliability is the biggest reason to approach this van with measured expectations. The practical layout, comfortable seats, and durable work-focused packaging are clear strengths, but oil-consumption reports and accounts of premature engine or transmission trouble complicate its value. One long-term owner also described CV-joint, blower-motor, battery, tire, and camera failures, including recurring transmission-shift issues. These are individual reports, not proof that every 2022 example will fail, yet they justify checking service records and considering extended warranty coverage before buying used.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Running costs are one of this van’s more convincing advantages. The official rating is 24 mpg combined, or 21 city and 28 highway, while individual reviewers reported roughly 25–27 mpg in mixed use and as much as 30–32 mpg on highway trips. That efficiency helps offset the demands of frequent delivery driving and regular gasoline is all it needs. Results will vary with payload, traffic, and conversion equipment, so the strongest real-world figures should be treated as personal test results rather than a universal expectation.
Urban Maneuverability
The ProMaster City is easiest to appreciate when parking and route access matter more than maximum size. Its front-wheel-drive layout, compact dimensions, clear sightlines, and roughly 12.8-meter turning circle make tight streets, alleys, and small lots less stressful. Reviewers consistently praise its maneuverability, dual sliding doors, backup camera, and garage-friendly height. The trade-off is limited all-wheel-drive availability, which weakens its appeal for conversions or consistently snowy conditions. For ordinary city work, its small footprint is a genuine usability advantage.
Engine and Transmission Performance
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder gives the ProMaster City adequate power without making it feel sluggish in normal urban use. Its 178 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque provide decent pickup, and the nine-speed automatic is generally described as smooth and responsive. Reviewers liked the lively performance and comfortable ride, although acceleration is not exceptional when heavily loaded. Some long-term owners report hard shifts and repeated software reflashes, while separate reports of startup noise and oil use raise concerns about durability beyond the otherwise positive driving experience.
Cargo Capacity and Loading
The ProMaster City makes everyday cargo work straightforward, especially in tight urban routes. Its cargo van offers up to 131.7 cubic feet of space, a flat load floor, dual sliding doors, and 180-degree rear barn doors, while threaded mounting points help organize shelving or tools. The 48.4-inch width between wheel wells is useful for bulky equipment, though reviewers note the cargo area is shorter and less upright than a Ford Transit Connect. The bare metal interior can also echo and expose unsecured tools.
Conclusion
The ProMaster City makes its case with 131.7 cubic feet of cargo space, sliding doors, barn doors, and an impressive payload that suits deliveries, tools, and light trailers without demanding full-size-van dimensions. Its compact footprint, clear visibility, and urban maneuverability are genuine advantages, while the 2.4-liter engine and nine-speed automatic provide capable performance and respectable fuel economy. Expert praise is tempered by user reports of oil consumption, hard shifts, and component failures, so long-term reliability deserves careful verification and warranty protection. The cabin can be noisy, the technology feels dated, and taller or crew-heavy loads may expose its limits. This is a sensible choice for small businesses, city routes, and compact camper projects—not buyers needing maximum refinement, all-weather traction, or unquestioned durability. Its practical strengths justify consideration, but the ownership risks keep the recommendation measured rather than wholehearted.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Acceleration Responsiveness
4/5
Highway Passing Capability
3/5
Ride Comfort
4/5
Cabin Quietness
2/5
Fuel Economy
4/5
Powertrain Reliability
2/5
Cargo Flexibility
4/5
Towing Capability
4/5
Value
Purchase Affordability
4/5
Operating Cost
3/5
Resale Value
2/5
Warranty Coverage
3/5
Design
Exterior Proportions
4/5
Interior Ergonomics
3/5
Passenger Space
3/5
Access Convenience
4/5
Interior Material Quality
3/5
Health
Cabin Air Quality
TBD
Seating Support
3/5
Occupant Vibration Comfort
3/5
Safety
Crash Protection
3/5
Driver Assistance
3/5
Child Passenger Protection
3/5
Visibility
4/5
Parking Maneuverability
5/5
Sustainability
Tailpipe Emissions
3/5
Fuel Consumption Impact
4/5
Material Efficiency
3/5
End-of-Life Recyclability
TBD
Experience Style
Control Simplicity
4/5
Seating Configurability
3/5
Family Convenience Features
3/5
Technology Integration
2/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
5 Questions
Find Yours
What will you primarily use your gas-powered van or minivan for?
Answer to find your best matches.
