The van battle you’ve been waiting for: ram promaster vs. fiat ducato
What To Know
- The RAM ProMaster with the gas engine offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
- The RAM ProMaster offers a higher towing capacity of up to 6,910 pounds, while the Fiat Ducato has a towing capacity of up to 5,990 pounds.
- The RAM ProMaster is more widely available in the United States than the Fiat Ducato, with a larger dealer network and a broader range of configurations and options.
Choosing the right cargo van for your business can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two formidable options like the RAM ProMaster and the Fiat Ducato. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities and features, but understanding their unique strengths and weaknesses is crucial for making an informed decision. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into a detailed comparison of these two cargo titans, exploring their key specifications, performance, features, and more.
Performance and Engine Options
The RAM ProMaster offers a range of engine options, including a 3.6L V6 gas engine with 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 with 174 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Fiat Ducato, on the other hand, comes with a 3.0L MultiJet diesel engine that produces 177 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. While the Ducato’s diesel engine offers impressive low-end torque, the ProMaster’s gas engine provides more power at higher RPMs.
Payload and Cargo Capacity
When it comes to payload and cargo capacity, both the RAM ProMaster and the Fiat Ducato offer ample space for your hauling needs. The ProMaster boasts a maximum payload capacity of up to 4,680 pounds, while the Ducato can handle up to 3,527 pounds. The ProMaster also offers a larger cargo area, with a maximum cargo volume of 463 cubic feet, compared to the Ducato’s 364 cubic feet.
Features and Technology
In terms of features and technology, both vehicles offer a range of options to enhance your driving experience. The RAM ProMaster comes standard with a 5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The Fiat Ducato, however, offers a more advanced infotainment system with an 8.7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a navigation system.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount when it comes to commercial vehicles. Both the RAM ProMaster and the Fiat Ducato offer a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your cargo. The ProMaster comes standard with electronic stability control, traction control, and hill start assist, while the Ducato offers additional features such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning.
Fuel Economy and Emissions
Fuel economy is a key consideration for any business owner. The RAM ProMaster with the gas engine offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. The diesel-powered Ducato, on the other hand, provides better fuel efficiency with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Maintenance and Ownership Costs
Routine maintenance and ownership costs are important factors to consider when choosing a commercial vehicle. Both the RAM ProMaster and the Fiat Ducato offer competitive maintenance costs, with the Ducato having slightly lower scheduled maintenance intervals. However, the ProMaster’s wider availability and larger dealer network may result in lower labor costs.
Key Points: Making the Right Choice
The choice between the RAM ProMaster and the Fiat Ducato ultimately depends on your specific business needs and preferences. If you require a vehicle with ample payload capacity, a powerful gas engine, and a spacious cargo area, the RAM ProMaster is an excellent choice. However, if fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and a lower overall cost of ownership are your top priorities, the Fiat Ducato may be the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has the higher towing capacity?
A: The RAM ProMaster offers a higher towing capacity of up to 6,910 pounds, while the Fiat Ducato has a towing capacity of up to 5,990 pounds.
Q: Does the Fiat Ducato offer any unique features not found on the RAM ProMaster?
A: Yes, the Fiat Ducato offers features such as lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and a more advanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Q: Which vehicle is more widely available in the United States?
A: The RAM ProMaster is more widely available in the United States than the Fiat Ducato, with a larger dealer network and a broader range of configurations and options.