Chrysler LLC launched Ram Truck as one of its brands in 2009. The line-up has been strong and that momentum continues with the 2014 model year vehicles, including an all-new commercial van and a diesel engine option for the half-ton pick-up (Ram 1500). Select media were invited to a program that featured the Ram 1500 pick-up fitted with the new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel, the Ram ProMaster commercial van as well as Ram heavy-duty trucks (2500 and 3500). Ride and drive time featured craggy mountain roads, off-road excursions within the 2000-acre Ventura Farms ranch as well as the scenic Southern California coastal highway.

Even after just a few miles behind the wheel of a ProMaster powered by the standard Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 (280 horsepower/258 pounds-feet of torque), this driver was highly impressed with the van’s maneuverability. Based on the European-sold Fiat Ducato, the ProMaster serves up several best-in-class features, including fuel economy, payload, cargo capacity, step-in height, and turning radius. By no means is the ProMaster a direct carryover of the Ducato. Various engineering alterations make the ProMaster’s performance (i.e. ride and handling) well-suited to the wants and needs of American drivers. Stay tuned for future test drive reports on 2014 Ram Trucks.