2012 Ford Mustang: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Ford Mustang is the return of the Boss 302, a street-legal track model with a 444-hp V8. The full lineup also gains driver-selectable steering effort, while the other Mustang models change very little from 2011.
About the 2012 Ford Mustang
5th generation Mustang (2005-2014), within the 2010-2014 facelift; second year after the major 2011 V6/GT powertrain update.
Ford positioned the 2012 Mustang as the broadest expression of the classic American pony car idea: rear-wheel drive, bold styling, coupe or convertible body styles, and a ladder that ran from a strong V6 daily driver to serious V8 performance models. Against rivals, Mustang leaned on accessible performance, a recognizable shape, open-air freedom, and a lineup that could be comfortable, loud, track-focused, or supercharged depending on trim.
The 2012 lineup stretches from a 305-hp V6 coupe or convertible to several distinct V8 models. The 412-hp GT delivers the traditional muscle-car experience, the Boss 302 adds track-focused brakes and suspension, and the 550-hp supercharged Shelby GT500 sits at the top. Premium trims focus more on comfort and cabin features, with leather seats, upgraded audio, and Ford’s voice-controlled connectivity system.
What changed, by category
2012 Ford Mustang specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 Liter | V6, 3.7 Liter | V6, 3.7 Liter | V8, 5.0 Liter | V8, 5.0 Liter | V8, Supercharged, 5.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 19 mpg | 19 mpg | 17 mpg | 18 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 30–31 mpg | 30–31 mpg | 26 mpg | 25 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 412 hp | 305 hp | 305 hp | 444 hp | 412 hp | 550 hp |
| Torque | 390 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft | 380 lb-ft | 390 lb-ft | 510 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | |
| Trunk/Cargo | 9.6–13.4 cu-ft | 9.6–13.4 cu-ft | 9.6–13.4 cu-ft | 13.4 cu-ft | 9.6–13.4 cu-ft | 9.6–13.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 29.8 in | 29.8 in | 29.8 in | 29.8 in | 29.8 in | 29.8 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| HID Headlights | ||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Ford Mustang?
The biggest change is the return of the Boss 302. It is a street-legal track model with a 444-hp 5.0-liter V8, upgraded suspension and brakes, and model-specific styling.
How is the 2012 Ford Mustang different from the 2011 model?
The 2012 Mustang adds the Boss 302 and makes selectable-effort electric power steering standard across the lineup. The V6, Premium, GT, GT Premium, and Shelby GT500 otherwise change very little from 2011.
Does every 2012 Ford Mustang have selectable steering effort?
Yes. Selectable-effort electric power steering is standard across the 2012 Mustang lineup, giving the driver Standard, Comfort, and Sport settings.
What makes the 2012 Mustang Boss 302 different from the GT?
The 2012 Boss 302 is more track-focused than the GT. Its 444-hp V8 exceeds the GT’s 412 hp, and it adds adjustable shocks and struts, larger Brembo front brakes, a 3.73 limited-slip rear differential, and a four-outlet exhaust system.
Where does the 2012 Boss 302 fit in the Mustang lineup?
The 2012 Boss 302 sits between the 412-hp GT and the 550-hp supercharged Shelby GT500. It emphasizes road-course balance and repeatable track performance rather than the GT Premium’s added comfort or the Shelby’s maximum power.