2012 Ford F-350: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Ford F-350 is a light-update year, led by higher maximum diesel towing ratings on certain Lariat, XL, and XLT configurations. The truck otherwise stays close to 2011, with no redesign or engine change.
About the 2012 Ford F-350
2011-2016 Super Duty redesign era, second model year after the major 2011 update.
Ford positioned the 2012 F-350 as a heavy-duty pickup built for serious towing and hauling, whether that meant jobsite work, commercial use, or pulling large trailers for recreation. Its core appeal was big capability with a wide range of configurations, plus factory towing tools like trailer sway control and large trailer mirrors. Compared with lighter-duty pickups, the F-350’s identity was straightforward: more payload, more towing muscle, and more room to choose the setup that matched the job.
The XL remains the straightforward work truck, while XLT adds everyday conveniences such as power accessories, cruise control, and an integrated trailer brake controller. Lariat brings leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and power-folding trailer mirrors; King Ranch adds Chaparral leather, heated and cooled front seats, a rearview camera, and illuminated side steps.
What changed, by category
2012 Ford F-350 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Flex Fuel, 6.2 Liter / V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.7L / V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.7L | V8, Flex Fuel, 6.2 Liter / V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.7L / V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.7L | V8, Flex Fuel, 6.2 Liter / V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.7L | V8, Flex Fuel, 6.2 Liter / V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.7L |
| Transmission | Auto, HD 6-Spd w/SelShft | Auto, HD 6-Spd w/SelShft | Auto, HD 6-Spd w/SelShft | Auto HD 6-Spd SelectShift |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Flexible Fuel / Diesel | Flexible Fuel / Diesel | Flexible Fuel / Diesel | Flexible Fuel / Diesel |
| Horsepower | 385–400 hp | 385–400 hp | 385–400 hp | 385–400 hp |
| Torque | 405–800 lb-ft | 405–800 lb-ft | 405–800 lb-ft | 405–800 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 12500–17500 lb | 12500–17500 lb | 14000–17500 lb | 14000 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 31.6–42.1 in | 31.6–42.1 in | 31.6–42.1 in | 42.1 in |
| Seats | 3–6 | 3–6 | 6 | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 2–4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Cooled Seats | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Pedals | ||||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2012 Ford F-350 redesigned?
No. The 2012 F-350 is the second model year following the major 2011 overhaul, so its styling, chassis, suspension, and basic lineup carry over.
Did the 2012 Ford F-350 get new engines or a new transmission?
No. The 2012 F-350 keeps the 6.2-liter gas V8, 6.7-liter diesel V8, and six-speed automatic transmission from 2011.
Did the 2012 Ford F-350's towing rating increase?
Yes. The maximum diesel towing rating rises from 16,000 to 17,500 pounds for certain Lariat, XL, and XLT configurations. The exact rating still depends on the truck's configuration.
What technology changed on the 2012 Ford F-350?
SYNC-equipped 2012 F-350 trucks gain AppLink smartphone integration. The Lariat's standard power-sliding rear window also adds defrost, while the rest of the technology setup remains largely unchanged.
Is the 2012 Ford F-350 meaningfully different from the 2011 model?
Only slightly. The 2012 model brings higher diesel towing ratings for certain configurations and AppLink integration on SYNC-equipped trucks, but its engines, transmission, styling, and basic structure remain the same.