I would be willing to bet you can't get that thing into parking decks -
at least not like a tin-top Vanagon.

John

On 3/22/2013 2:40 PM, Richard Koerner 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
>