Well, it's a Fiat, and the service will be by Chrysler.  Both of those are big question marks, but it has been around Europe for a while.

I have been hopeful regarding something to replace my VW camper that would be reliable.  Don't know about this.

mcneely

---- Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET> wrote: 
> Since it's Friday, I'll put this out:  
http://wot.motortrend.com/2014-ram-promaster-cargo-van-starts-at-29625-diesel-is-4000-more-337795.html#axzz2OITfgyOz
> 
> Anybody
 thinking beyond Vanagon?  I love my 85 tintop Vanagon and it's 
predecessor a 70 Baywindow.  Been lots of fun and adventure over the 
past 39 years.  Roadtrips will always be a part of my life, and I've 
been thinking about a future vehicle.  The future may be arriving soon. 
 October.
> 
> Have been reading a lot online about MB Sprinters, and 
then was getting excited about then new Ford Transit (not Transit 
Connect).  Both seemed to be okay platforms.  But have now discovered the 
Fiat Ducato, a huge seller in Europe and currently being made in Mexico 
and re-badged as a Chrysler Ram ProMaster.   In USA showrooms this October.  Like the others, will be 
available in an array of
 bodies and wheelbases.  For me, I would start out with an empty cargo 
van with the high roof, 116-inch wheelbase, and then build out my own camping interior.  
> 
> Really
 like the front-wheel drive of the ProMaster which results in lowest 
step-in height in it's class.  Also, pretty tight turning radius (gets 
bigger with the mid- and long-wheelbase versions).  Gas engine has an 
impressive 27 MPG highway; diesel engine is an option for $4K more.  
Presumably, parts and service would be readily available across the 
entire North American continent.  And the price is reasonable too for 
the cargo versions (passenger versions not announced yet).  The version I
 want looks to be around $32K.
> 
> I'm sure the van conversion people
 will be all over this vehicle!  And lots of interior goodies to shop 
for from the RV equipment suppliers.  My plan is to buy such a vehicle 
in the next couple years, then design (I used Solidworks  3D
 CAD) a versatile interior that meets my needs and desires, and then 
build it out.  Would be a labor of love I imagine.  But have done the 
same with my Vanagon.  The goal is to have a 4 season retirement vehicle
 for travels across the continent over the next 20 years.
> 
> Take a look at the above link (copy and paste as needed).....plenty of information out there, more arriving daily.  What do ya'll think?
> 
> Rich
> San Diego

--
David McNeely