Vans for Business: Chevrolet Express Vs. Ram ProMaster Vs. Ford Transit

A used cargo van is a great investment for any business. At Indy Auto Man, Indianapolis, we strive to maintain a superb inventory of used cargo and passenger vans from Chevrolet, Ford, Ram, and other automakers to help you find your perfect model to drive across Indiana state and abroad.

But how to choose your best suit with so many options available for sale? Let’s take a closer look at three exceptional commercial vehicles: Chevy Express, Ford Transit, and Ram ProMaster so that you can buy the one to perfectly fit your goals and budget.

The Chevrolet Express has been produced since 1995 and has mostly stayed the same. In 2002, the Express and its twin brother GMC Savana formally changed the generation, but the bogie and almost all components remained the same. However, the Express minivan became more of a passenger car.

From 2004, all configurations are equipped with the ESP system already in the base, and from 2008, the van has an updated interior.

With proper maintenance, a used Chevy Express van will last up to 300 thousand miles on the original motor. There are four gasoline engines on the model to choose from:

• The most basic had a volume of 4.3 liters (200 hp). This is the only 6-cylinder unit for the Express model.
• The V8 with a volume of 4.8 to 6 liters.
• The 5.3- and 6-liter versions could be with all-wheel drive, but rear-wheel-drive is the most common for this van.
• There is also a diesel Express auto with a mighty 6.6-liter Duramax V8 with 260 horsepower and 525 Nm.

The interior of the Express, compared to the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster, is very controversial. However, the van has very comfortable leather seats. The front ones are equipped with an electric drive.

This is a truly comfortable minivan. Its suspension is softer than the Ram’s or Ford’s, but at the same time, its passengers are more prone to motion sickness.

Chevrolet vans often come in like-new condition and will last a very long time for the future owner. The motor based on GM technology from the 1980s, with proper maintenance, will go hundreds of thousands of miles.

The Ram ProMaster is a van based on the FIAT Ducato with front-wheel drive. Since 2009, Ram engineers have begun work on adapting Ducato to American needs. Ram ProMaster 2014 is the first commercial vehicle jointly designed by Ram and FIAT Professional.

The ProMaster has 13 configurations with a long wheelbase, roof height, cargo van, chassis, etc.

The volume of the cargo compartment is 13 cubic meters, which makes it possible to carry very large luggage. The floor is covered with a special rubber coating; there are also 17 mounting rings. The rear-hinged doors, which can open 180 and 260 degrees, and a non-slip rear step contribute to the convenience of the loading process. Thanks to the side sliding door, pallets can be loaded not only from the rear but also from the side. In addition, you can transport up to 400 lbs on the roof.

Inside, the ProMaster van is quite comfortable and functional. The dashboard is ergonomic and easy to use. All functionality is available from the driver and passenger seats.

The ProMaster car uses the UConnect option to control the audio system, navigation, and phone. There are special radio control buttons on the steering wheel. The dashboard features a 5-inch screen. There is also a USB port where you can charge portable devices.

A set of systems and devices is responsible for safety while driving in this large van, such as Brake Assist (emergency braking system), brake differential lock system, and Hill Start Assist, that prevents the vehicle from rolling over on the road.

Compared to the Chevy Express, the RAM ProMaster has a stronger engine – the 6.4-liter V8 HEMI with the 8-speed automatic transmission.

The Ram ProMaster van is also provided with two types of Pentastar V6 engines:

• a diesel engine with a volume of 3.6 liters and a power of 280 hp; gearbox M40 automated six-speed;
• a 3.0-liter eco-diesel engine with 174 hp. The transmission is also a 6-speed automatic.

Ford Transit is a series of cargo vans and minibusses manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. The Transit became one of the most common and best-selling light commercial vehicles in the Old World and remained so for 40 years. The word “Transit” even came into use as the name of any commercial van with similar dimensions. Ford Sollers has created even more modifications based on the Transit, used on public transport routes, ambulance services, schools, and other social institutions.

Ford Transit has great visibility and does not require truck driving skills to maneuver around a big city like Indianapolis. This van is easy to keep in the desired lane and drive in narrow places. However, the driver must remember, especially on tight bends, that the long part of the car is behind him. Wheelbases are available from 129.9 to 147.6 inches and lengths from 219.9 to 266.1 inches. And the gas mileage with the EcoBoost engine is decent – 14/19 mpg city/highway.

Two other engine options are available on the US market:

• 3.7-liter V6, 275 hp, 260 lb-ft;
• a turbocharged 3.2-liter diesel, 185 hp, and 350 lb-ft.

The standard V6 engine has the same gas mileage as the EcoBoost but less towing and hauling capability. All engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with a shift lever to manual control.

The Ford Transit can pull 7,500 pounds or carry a load of up to 4,6 ton. The largest high-roof Ford Transit van can hold 487 cubic feet of cargo.

• The Chevrolet Express may seem obsolete in design, mechanics, and functionality. But this vehicle can boast decent reliability and minimal maintenance costs.
• The RAM ProMaster has a practical and functional threshold of its floor in the cargo area.
• The Ford Transit is distinguished by its modern design and high-tech features. It offers the best handling and driving comfort.

Overall, all three vans deliver on value, price, and versatility. Visit Indy Auto Man for a test drive around Indianapolis and buy the best commercial vehicle for your business.