Overview

What's New for 2012:

• New 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine

Exterior Features
The 2012 Ford Explorer is a midsize crossover, offered in a 4-door body style with three trim levels. Seventeen-inch steel wheels are standard, with larger wheels available on other trim levels.

Interior Features
The 2012 Ford Explorer offers seating for up to 7 passengers. Base Explorer models feature cloth upholstery, air conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, integrated blind-spot mirrors, tilt-and-telescope steering wheel, and more. Upgraded trim levels are fitted with dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, keyless entry code pad, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, upgraded audio system, and other amenities. The range-topping Explorer Limited trim combines nearly all the option packages and adds keyless entry/ignition, 20-inch wheels, remote engine start, and other premium equipment.

Optional Features
Major option packages on the 2012 Ford Explorer include a dual-panel sunroof, blind-spot warning system, adaptive cruise control, and more.

Under the Hood
Ford Explorer models are fitted with one of two engines. The standard model features a 3.5-liter V-6 engine rated at 290 horsepower. An optional engine is a new 2.0-liter 4-cylinder rated at 237 horsepower. All engines are mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is optional on some 2012 Explorer models. The Explorer V-6 is rated to tow 5000 pounds, according to Ford.

Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy figures for the 2012 Ford Explorer are:

• Ford Explorer AWD with 3.5-liter V-6 engine: 17/23 mpg (city/highway)
• Ford Explorer FWD with 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine: 20/28 mpg (city/highway)

Safety
Standard safety features of note on the 2012 Ford Explorer include side-impact curtain air bags and air bag seat belts in the second row. The 2012 Ford Explorer has not been crash tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but in tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Explorer received a "Good" rating-the Institute's highest-for frontal-offset and side-impact crash protection. Roof strength results from the Institute were also "Good."