AUTONEWS

RAM ProMaster City: returning for the 2027 lineup

RAM is bringing the ProMaster City back to the North American market for the 2027 model year, following its discontinuation after the 2022 model year. Developed to bridge the gap between compact vans and large commercial vehicles, the new ProMaster City focuses on a combination of cargo capacity, urban usability, and competitive pricing. It will be offered in Tradesman and SLT trim levels—both available as either a Cargo Van or a Passenger Wagon (with five or eight seats)—and production is set to begin in 2026 at the Tofas plant in Bursa, Turkey. The first units are expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the first quarter of 2027.

Despite the "City" name, the new generation has grown significantly compared to its predecessor. Measuring approximately 5.33 meters in length with a 3.28-meter wheelbase, it offers around 4.73 cubic meters of cargo volume and a usable floor length of 2.82 meters. The cargo area is designed to accommodate two standard U.S. pallets placed end-to-end and allows for the transport of 4-by-8-foot sheets. At the same time, the overall height remains around 2 meters, ensuring easy access to urban garages and parking structures.

A single powertrain option is available across the entire lineup. The ProMaster City features a transversely mounted 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 166 hp and 300 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Towing capacity reaches 907 kg, while the maximum payload capacity—as stated by RAM—is 987 kg, depending on the configuration.

A front-wheel-drive unibody architecture was selected to maximize interior space while reducing weight and complexity. The front suspension utilizes a MacPherson strut setup, while the rear employs an independent trailing-arm suspension. Despite its larger dimensions, RAM managed to keep the turning circle just over 12 meters—a key feature for a van designed for urban use.

The Tradesman trim comes well-equipped for a commercial vehicle. Standard features include a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a 5-inch digital rearview mirror, heated front seats, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, and a rearview camera. The goal is to provide professionals with a cabin experience closer to that of a modern passenger car, without sacrificing functionality.

The SLT trim adds a touch more sophistication. It features a body-colored front bumper with fog lights, body-colored rear bumper elements, and 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels. Inside, it adds front parking sensors and a wireless smartphone charger, while a heated steering wheel remains available.

Versatility is another core aspect of the design. The ProMaster City can be ordered with various combinations of side windows and panels, as well as a choice between conventional 180-degree opening rear doors or a new liftgate. In the Passenger Wagon configuration, the cabin seats up to eight occupants, and the second- and third-row seats can be removed to substantially increase cargo space. RAM also offers various upfitting solutions and accessories to tailor the van to specific professions.

Safety has also been prioritized. All versions come with features such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, driver attention monitoring, hill start assist, automatic high beams, rear parking sensors, and the ParkView backup camera. Passenger versions also include side-curtain airbags for enhanced occupant protection. With pricing recently announced, the Tradesman Cargo starts at $39,995, while the Tradesman Passenger Wagon begins at $42,695. The SLT Cargo starts at $41,495, and the SLT Passenger Wagon comes in at $44,195—figures that include the destination charge. With this, RAM positions the ProMaster City as one of the most affordable new commercial vans in the United States.

The strategy is quite clear. Instead of attempting to replace the full-size ProMaster, the new ProMaster City occupies its own niche within the RAM lineup: it offers significant cargo and towing capacity but in a format that is easier to park and use for daily operations. For small business owners, delivery drivers, service providers, and professionals who do not require a large-scale van, this combination can be particularly appealing.

The return of the 2027 RAM ProMaster City represents, therefore, more than just the revival of a familiar name. The new generation transforms the former compact van into a mid-size commercial vehicle featuring increased space, greater cargo capacity, and updated technology, with two versions designed to meet the needs of everyone from professionals seeking an essential work tool to those desiring a more highly equipped commercial vehicle.