2027 Ram ProMaster City Tradesman Returns: Bigger, More Practical, Built for Small Businesses
Table of Contents
The small van segment was quietly fading away. Then Ram ProMaster City decided to make a comeback.
Spotted at the New York International Auto Show, the 2027 model brings noticeable changes. It is bigger, more powerful in the right areas, and clearly designed with small business owners in mind.
Let’s break it down properly.
Why the ProMaster City Is Back
Ram discontinued this van back in 2022. The demand did not go away though.
- Small business owners kept asking for a compact cargo van
- Full size vans felt too big and expensive
- Competitors like Ford exited the segment
So Ram brought it back. And this time, it sits in the Class 2 small van category, meaning it has grown in size and capability.
Engine and Performance: More Torque Where It Matters
The old model used a 2.4L naturally aspirated engine. This one goes in a different direction.
New engine setup
- 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine
- Direct injection with DOHC setup
- 166 horsepower
- 221 lb ft torque
This engine is shared with the Jeep Cherokee (without hybrid tech).
What actually improved?
- Power is slightly lower than before
- Torque is up by nearly 50 lb ft
That matters more in a cargo van. You feel torque when hauling tools or climbing with load.
Transmission and capability
- 8 speed automatic gearbox
- Approx towing capacity: 2,000 lbs
- Better efficiency promised by Ram
No diesel or EV option for North America. Other markets get those.
Exterior Design: Familiar Yet Functional
This van is actually based on the Fiat Scudo, but Ram has done enough to give it its own identity.
Key design highlights
- New Ram script logo up front
- LED headlights with twin DRL signature
- Tall front bumper for added protection
- Optional LED fog lamps
The tall bumper is not just styling. It protects headlights from minor impacts. That makes sense for a work vehicle.
Size and Dimensions: Now Much Bigger
The biggest update is size. This van has grown significantly.
| Dimension | New Model | Old Model |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 210 inches | 187.5 inches |
| Wheelbase | 129 inches | shorter |
| Height | Under 77 inches | similar |
| Width | Under 76 inches | similar |
What this means in real life
- Nearly 2 feet longer than before
- Still fits in standard garages
- Only long wheelbase version available
That balance is important. Bigger inside, still manageable outside.
Cargo Space and Utility: The Real Highlight
This is where the 2027 ProMaster City makes a strong case.
Cargo capacity
- 167 cubic feet total space
- 30 cubic feet more than before
- Payload capacity: 2,175 lbs
Practical usability
- Fits standard 4×8 plywood sheets
- Floor length: 111 inches
- Cargo height: 54 inches
- Width between wheel wells: 49 inches
Door and access features
- Sliding door with wide opening
- Split rear doors opening up to 90 degrees
- Doors can swing fully open when needed
There is also a digital rearview mirror as standard. Useful since cargo versions do not have rear windows.
Passenger Version Option
Not just a cargo van.
- Available with up to 8 seats
- Optional liftgate in passenger version
This adds versatility. One vehicle can handle both work and family duties.
Interior: Basic but Surprisingly Well Equipped
This is the base Tradesman trim, but it does not feel stripped down.
What you get
- Black cloth seats with decent comfort
- Heated front seats (standard)
- Leather wrapped steering wheel
- Paddle shifters
Tech features
- 10 inch digital instrument cluster
- 10 inch touchscreen
- USB C charging ports
- Manual climate controls with physical buttons
The infotainment system is not the usual Ram Uconnect. It feels more European, which makes sense given its origins.
Storage and usability
- Multiple storage compartments
- Hidden dash storage
- Adjustable armrest
- Durable hard plastics
It is clearly built for use, not for show.
Driving and Practicality
Ram focused on usability here.
- Turning circle: just over 42 feet
- Visibility is good
- Seat offers decent adjustment
Even though the van is longer now, it remains easy to maneuver.
Price and Availability
- Expected starting price: under $40,000
- Production begins in Turkey
- US launch expected in early 2027
Pricing will go higher with upper trims like SLT.
Final Thoughts: Does It Make Sense?
The 2027 Ram ProMaster City fills a gap that was starting to grow.
You get:
- More space without going full size
- Strong torque for load carrying
- Practical dimensions for city use
- Enough tech to stay modern
It is not flashy. It is not trying to be.
It is built for people who need to get work done.
And honestly, that is exactly why it might succeed again.
Sources and References
2027 Ram ProMaster City FAQs
Is the 2027 Ram ProMaster City coming back to the US?
Yes, Ram is bringing back the ProMaster City for the 2027 model year after discontinuing it in 2022. The return comes mainly due to demand from small business owners who wanted a compact and practical cargo van.
What engine does the 2027 Ram ProMaster City use?
The van comes with a 1.6L turbocharged gasoline engine that produces 166 horsepower and 221 lb ft of torque. It shares its base with the Jeep Cherokee engine but without hybrid support. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
How much cargo space does the new ProMaster City offer?
The 2027 model offers up to 167 cubic feet of cargo space, which is about 30 cubic feet more than the previous version. It can also carry up to 2,175 pounds of payload.
Can the ProMaster City carry plywood or large materials?
Yes, the cargo area is designed to fit standard 4x8 sheets of plywood. The floor length is around 111 inches, making it practical for construction and business use.
What is the towing capacity of the 2027 ProMaster City?
The van has an estimated towing capacity of around 2,000 pounds, which is suitable for light trailers and equipment.
How big is the new ProMaster City compared to the old model?
The new version is significantly larger. It is about 210 inches long, which makes it nearly 2 feet longer than the previous generation, with a longer wheelbase as well.
Is there a passenger version available?
Yes, apart from the cargo van, Ram will offer a passenger version with seating for up to 8 people, making it useful for both business and family needs.
What features are available inside the cabin?
Even the base model includes heated seats, a 10 inch digital instrument cluster, a 10 inch touchscreen, USB C ports, and multiple storage spaces. The interior focuses more on usability than luxury.
When will the 2027 Ram ProMaster City be available?
Production is expected to begin soon, with availability in the US market starting in early 2027.
What is the expected price of the 2027 ProMaster City?
The starting price is expected to be under $40,000 for the base model, making it a relatively affordable option compared to larger commercial vans.
