If you’re looking for a work vehicle, vans are probably on your wish list. They can haul tons of cargo, and you don’t have to worry about your equipment getting wet when it rains. However, you might want to skip the 2021 Ram ProMaster.

Is it a bad vehicle? Not really. But there are much better choices.

The 2021 Ram ProMaster is a big no

If you’re the Lone Ranger heading from job to job on your own, the ProMaster might be a good deal for you. But if you work with three or more crew members, you better call shotgun fast. Otherwise, you’ll be sitting on the floor. That’s because the 2021 Ram ProMaster doesn’t come with rear passenger seats as a standard feature or even an option.

Its driving capabilities aren’t impressive either, Car and Driver reports. “When it comes to overall handling, the Ram ProMaster is notably less refined than many of its rivals,” a recent review says. “The steering system is loose and numb, and competing vans provide smoother ride quality.”

Another flaw is the noise level. If you’re driving in traffic, you’ll hear everything going on outside the van. 

The final area where the ProMaster really lacks is towing ability. It can trailer up to 6,910 pounds, according to Ram. That’s not bad, but other vans can haul more. For example, the Ford Transit can tow up to 7,500 pounds.

Does the ProMaster have any redeeming qualities?

Despite its flaws, the Ram ProMaster it’s completely irredeemable. It boasts several safety features, such as a backup camera, rear parking sensors, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking. 

And the crosswind-assist function is a cool feature. It helps keep the van stable in high winds. 

The base model also comes with some features that make unloading cargo easier. They include a rear step bumper, a sliding passenger-side door, and a split swing-out rear door. 

Inside, you’ll find a five-inch infotainment touchscreen, air conditioning, and a manually adjustable telescopic steering column. If you have to make calls while driving, Bluetooth phone connectivity comes standard. 

The one area where the 2021 Ram ProMaster truly shines is payload capacity. It can accommodate up to 4,680 pounds. That’s over 100 pounds more than the most powerful Ford Transit can handle.

With a base MSRP of $29,625, the Ram ProMaster is one of the cheapest new work vans. But it’s simply not that great. Many other cargo vans are superior in almost every way.

Better options

If you’re looking for a great, relatively affordable van, the Ford Transit gets Car and Driver’s approval. Starting at $36,000, it can go from 0 to 60 in 6.8 seconds and tow 7,500 pounds.

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is Car and Driver’s second pick. And at $35,690, it’s shockingly cheaper than the Transit. 

Other vans on the list include the Nissan NV1500/2500/3500, Chevrolet Express, and GMC Savana. The Ram ProMaster earns the sixth spot, making it the poorest-rated van on the list.

So, should you skip it? Unless you have a soft spot for it, skip it. There are just too many other great options.