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2012 Ford Explorer review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Ford Explorer highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Mileage (EPA estimate)

17 city, 23 highway, 19 combined

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.3 out of 5

26 customer reviews
The 2012 Ford Explorer is praised for its impressive interior space, advanced safety features, and robust technology. While its handling and ride comfort satisfy most drivers, critiques mention underwhelming fuel economy and occasional blind spots. Reviewers rate it highly in overall satisfaction, making it a strong contender for family-friendly versatility.

RepairPal reliability rating

3
1
2
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Ford Explorer an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Ford Explorer 23rd out of 32 among Midsize SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Ford Explorer

Ford Explorer features and specs

Curious how Ford Explorer trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

XLT 4D Sport Utility 2WD

Standard Features

  • Cloth Seats
  • Heated Mirrors
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cruise Control
  • Fold-Away Third Row
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Side Airbags
  • Third Row Seat
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Sync System
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • CD Audio
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Optional Features

  • Cloth Seats
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather Seats
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Rear View Camera
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Running Boards
  • Tow Hitch
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Rear Entertainment System
  • Navigation System
  • Sync System

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

240

Torque (ft-lbs)

270

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

18.6

Wheelbase

112.6"

Overall length

197.1"

Width

78.9"

Height

70.4"

Leg room

F 40.6"/M 39.8"/R 33.2"

Head room

F 41.4"/M 40.5"/R 37.8"

Front tires

P245/60R18

Rear tires

P245/60R18

Seating capacity

7

Max towing capacity

300/2000 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2012 Ford Explorer FAQ

Ford Explorer articles

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2023 SUVs Compared: Ford Explorer vs. Kia Sorento

The Ford Explorer kicked off America's love affair with SUVs, but the competition has long ago caught up with the midsize SUV. The Kia Sorento is a perfect example of an upstart coming for the Explorer's crown.
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The Best Ford Explorer Alternatives

The Ford Explorer can be credited for kickstarting the SUV craze, but it's not the only impressive midsize three-row SUV available. Take a look at five SUV alternatives to the Ford Explorer.
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I Bought a Used 2017 Ford Explorer for Car Camping and I Love It

Are you curious about popular cars for camping? Learn how your SUV, minivan, or car could become your weekend adventure vehicle. Angela shares how her 2017 Ford Explorer Sport allows her to travel easily and on a budget.
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Minivans vs. SUVs: What's Better for Your Family?

Minivans are known as the kings of family cars. But are modern SUVs that much of a trade-off? We take a close look and find out.
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Best Used 3-Row SUVs

If you're looking for a great used 3-row SUV, you're in the right place. From family haulers to luxury cruisers, this list of the 10 best used 3-row SUVs for 2024 shoppers has you covered.
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Best Used Midsize SUVs

Are you looking for a vehicle offering utility, performance, and style? Check out this list of the best used midsize SUVs for shoppers to discover which model has the spacious interior, advanced features, and enjoyable driving experience to match your lifestyle.
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Best Used SUVs for 2023

If you're looking for a great used SUV, you're in the right place. From family haulers to impressive off roaders, this list of the 10 best used SUVs for 2023 shoppers has you covered.
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Ford Explorer vs. Chevrolet Traverse

Do you have a busy life and need a vehicle that can handle people, cargo, and everything in between? Read on to learn about how the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse compare. Each has three rows of seating and a range of well-equipped trims to accommodate your crew.
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8 Best Times to Buy a Used Car

If you're undergoing a big life change, like getting hitched, adding to your family, or starting a new job, you might also be feeling the itch to refresh your ride. If so, read on to learn more about the best times to buy a used car to help you on your search for the right car for you.

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Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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