2012 Ford Explorer: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2012 Ford Explorer’s biggest change is a new 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder for front-wheel-drive models, aimed at buyers who value fuel economy. Otherwise, this is a light update to the redesigned 2011 Explorer.
About the 2012 Ford Explorer
5th generation (2011-2019), second model year before any major refresh.
Ford positioned the 2012 Explorer as a modern family SUV that blended three-row usefulness with better fuel economy, a smoother on-road feel, and more technology than traditional truck-based SUVs. The core pitch was simple: it still handled family hauling, towing, and bad-weather travel, but did it with a more polished cabin, easier daily drivability, and standout safety features. Against rivals, Ford leaned on the Explorer’s mix of seven-passenger flexibility, smart traction systems, and upscale tech.
Ford positioned the 2012 Explorer lineup as a clear step-up range for family use. The base trim covers seven-passenger duty, XLT adds voice controls, a USB port, and rear parking sensors, while Limited brings leather-trimmed heated front seats, push-button start, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a 12-speaker Sony audio system.
What changed, by category
2012 Ford Explorer specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.0L / V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.0L / V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.0L / V6, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd / Auto, 6-Spd SelectShift | Automatic, 6-Spd / Auto, 6-Spd SelectShift | Automatic, 6-Spd / Auto, 6-Spd SelectShift |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 2WD | 2WD / 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17–20 mpg | 18–20 mpg | 17–20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23–28 mpg | 25–28 mpg | 23–28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 237–290 hp | 237–290 hp | 237–290 hp |
| Torque | 250–255 lb-ft | 250–255 lb-ft | 250–255 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 5000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 80.7 cu-ft | 80.7 cu-ft | 80.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.2 in | 33.2 in | 33.2 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Hill Descent Control | |||
| Inflatable Seat Belts | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| HID Headlights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Tow Hooks | |||
| AM/FM Radio | |||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||
| LCD Instrument Cluster | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | |||
| SD Card Slot | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Video Input | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Cooled Seats | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Memory Pedals | |||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Ford Explorer?
The biggest change is the addition of a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine for front-wheel-drive models. Most of the Explorer otherwise carries over from the major 2011 redesign.
Does the 2012 Ford Explorer have an EcoBoost engine?
Yes. A 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder joined the 2012 front-wheel-drive Base, XLT, and Limited trims, while the V6 remained in the lineup.
Did the 2012 Explorer’s V6 transmission change from 2011?
Yes. For 2012, the V6 received a six-speed SelectShift automatic with manual shift control as standard equipment across the Explorer lineup.
What changed on the 2012 Explorer XLT?
The 2012 Explorer XLT made Ford’s SYNC voice-control system and USB media connection standard, and front-wheel-drive versions gained the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine option.
Is the 2012 Ford Explorer a major update over the 2011 model?
No. The 2012 Explorer is a light update to the redesigned 2011 model. Its main reasons to favor it are the EcoBoost four-cylinder, the standard SelectShift automatic on V6 models, and added standard technology on XLT.