2012 Ford E-150: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2012 Ford E-150 is a light-update model led by one practical change: the factory radio gains a standard audio input jack. Otherwise, the cargo vans and passenger wagons carry over without major changes.
About the 2012 Ford E-150
Long-running pre-Transit E-Series generation, late-cycle minor-update year.
Ford positions the E-150 as a full-size van built first around space and utility. In cargo form, it is a simple work van for tools, deliveries, and upfits. In wagon form, it is a straightforward people mover for large families, church groups, shuttle duty, and fleet use. Its appeal is familiar controls, a proven rear-wheel-drive layout, V8 power, big interior space, and a body shape that works well for hauling either equipment or passengers.
The 2012 E-150 lineup covers basic work duty and large-group transportation. Regular- and extended-length cargo vans have two-seat cabins and open cargo areas, while the XL and better-equipped XLT wagons add rear seating; the XLT also has cloth front seats, power windows and locks, and chrome exterior trim. Every version uses a 4.6-liter V8, a four-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive.
What changed, by category
2012 Ford E-150 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.6 Liter / V8, 5.4 Liter (E150) | V8, 4.6 Liter / V8, 5.4 Liter | V8, Flex Fuel, 4.6 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.4 Liter | V8, Flex Fuel, 4.6 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Flexible Fuel | Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 12–13 mpg | 12–13 mpg | 12–13 mpg | 12–13 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 16–17 mpg | 16–17 mpg |
| Horsepower | 225–255 hp | 225–255 hp | 225–255 hp | 225–255 hp |
| Torque | 286–350 lb-ft | 286–350 lb-ft | 286–350 lb-ft | 286–350 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7000 lb | 7000 lb | 7400 lb | 7300 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 237.8 cu-ft | 278.3 cu-ft | ||
| Rear Legroom | 41.4 in | 41.4 in | ||
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 5 | 2 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Traction Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Ford E-150 compared with the 2011 model?
The main change is a standard audio input jack added to the factory radio. The rest of the E-150 carries over without a major redesign or broad mechanical update.
Was the 2012 Ford E-150 redesigned?
No, the 2012 E-150 was not redesigned. It remained part of the long-running E-Series generation and received only a small audio-system update.
Did both 2012 E-150 cargo vans and passenger wagons get the new audio input jack?
Yes, the audio input jack became standard across both cargo and passenger versions of the 2012 E-150. Cargo vans use a two-speaker radio, while XL and XLT passenger wagons use a six-speaker setup.
Is the 2012 Ford E-150 substantially different from the 2011 model?
No, the 2012 E-150 is substantially similar to the 2011 model. Its meaningful update is the standard audio input jack, with no major design, powertrain, safety, or structural changes.