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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2012 Ford Explorer

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Overview

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2012 Ford Explorer Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 7.5

Twenty-odd years ago, Ford's Explorer introduced America to the new wagon, a truck-based SUV large enough to carry the family and all their gear, but not much larger than average mid-size sedan of the day. Over its long run the Explorer had its up and downs, but while the Explorer name carries on into the 21st century, the vehicle that now wears it couldn't be more different from the original. Instead of a truck chassis, the Explorer is wrapped in a unit body, meaning its construction is stamped and welded into a single frame making it both lighter and stronger. The 2012 Ford Explorer can still hold seven passengers or any number of bulky items, but its interior is now more sophisticated, as is its suspension, engine and available all-wheel-drive system. Set to do battle with the Dodge Durango, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Traverse, the Explorer has its work cut out for it. And, where the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee offer a powerful V8 engine, no such muscle exists under the Explorer's hood. That's because Ford has chosen to go a more economical route, offering a V6 and a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that provide plenty of power with superior fuel economy. The Explorer also relies on a host of innovative electronic and technology triumphs that help it keep one step ahead of the competition. Ironically, the one vehicle that stands to lose market share to the Explorer is its own sibling, the Ford Flex.

You'll Like This Car If...

You'll like the 2012 Ford Explorer if you seek the tall ride height and useful interior space provided by a traditional mid-size SUV, but not the poor handling and fuel economy penalty. The 2012 Explorer is exceptionally well mannered, has a beautifully designed interior and is an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

You May Not Like This Car If...

While the 2012 Ford Explorer's available four-wheel-drive (4WD) system is one of the most versatile Ford has produced, it is not intended for serious off-roading. Those who need to tow more than 5,000 pounds will have to look to the Explorer's V8-powered competitors.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

7.5
Driving Dynamics

7.4
Comfort & Convenience

7.0
Design: Interior & Exterior

8.0
Value

7.2
Safety

8.0

How It Ranks

#44

out of 60

MPG

#5

out of 61

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

7.7 out of 10

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consumer ratings

What's New for 2012

Ford's EcoBoost 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is added to the front-wheel-drive Explorer's option list. The EcoBoost engine produces 240 horsepower when fed premium fuel and is expected to return fuel economy figures in the high 20s.

Driving the Explorer

2012 Ford Explorer Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions It takes only a few minutes behind the wheel of the 2012 Ford Explorer to realize this is no old-fashioned truck-based SUV. The stiff body banishes squeaks and rattles from...

the passenger compartment, while the adept suspension aided by Ford's Curve Control system tackles winding roads like a lithe sports sedan. Match that with a bounty of standard computer-controlled handling aids, impressively weighted electrically-boosted power steering and more than capable anti-lock disc brakes, and the Explorer turns in a world-class open-road experience. Our short time testing the Terrain Management 4-wheel-drive system netted some pretty impressive results, especially considering the Explorer's modest 7.6 inches of ground clearance and somewhat soft suspension. Still, we wouldn't put this vehicle up against a Toyota 4Runner, for example, whose body-on-frame architecture and hi/lo transfer case make it more conducive to serious off-road challenges. Then again, few truck-based SUVs can match the 2012 Explorer's outstanding fuel economy, exceptional cabin comfort, user-focused functionality plus class-leading connectivity, all of which make the Ford Explorer a most accommodating travel mate.

Favorite Features

My Ford Touch
This latest and most capable version of Ford's driver-connect technology is standard on the Explorer Limited and available on the XLT. It utilizes an even more advanced and expanded version of the automaker's SYNC voice-command system to allow and facilitate a broader range of input commands for the audio, navigation, climate control and phone systems.

Curve Control
A world-exclusive, this standard safety enhancement automatically senses when the vehicle is entering a given corner too quickly and automatically engages throttle and braking intervention to help it maintain the desired driving path.

2012 Ford Explorer Details

2012 Ford Explorer Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Look inside a Toyota 4Runner or Nissan Pathfinder and you'll find the same dash and door panels as in their pickup truck counterparts. But, look inside the 2012 Ford Explorer and you'll see something entirely different. The elegant cabin is awash in high-quality, soft-touch surfaces, with careful attention to detail found in the most minute places. The Explorer's instrument cluster is clean and simple on the base models, and on XLT and Limited can be upgraded to include the MyFord Touch package that features configurable LCD screens in place of the traditional analog gauges. Features like the media hub, four 12-volt outlets and numerous storage spots speak to the needs of today's mobile electronics, while supportive seats in all three rows provide plenty of room for adults. At the rear, a single-piece rear liftgate opens to expose 15.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be expanded to a maximum of 80.7 cubic feet by folding down both rows of rear seats.

Exterior

Where the Explorers of old were easily identified by their square edges and boxy upright cabins, the 2012 Explorer displays a different attitude. The lines are more elegant and the boldly rakish front end sets the tone for the rest of the Explorer's design, which includes reverse-raked C-pillars and blacked-out A-, B-, and D-pillars. The Explorer's tall doors and lower roof give it a slick, almost gangster look that mirrors the Ford Taurus, but the design is an optical illusion because there is plenty of head room inside as well as ground clearance below (7.6 inches to be exact). The Explorer's wide track benefits interior occupants with more hip and shoulder room, as well as greatly aids in improved handling and cornering. Finishing the exterior embellishments are standard 17-inch wheels on the base models, with 18-inchers on the XLT and massive 20-inch alloys on the Limited models.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

In addition to its 290-horsepower V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, the base 2012 Ford Explorer boasts numerous power assists, MyFord driver connectivity, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with media hub, air conditioning, cruise control, tilt/telescoping steering column and more. The XLT adds interior/exterior trim embellishments, auto headlights, foglights, 18-inch wheels/tires, rearview camera with zoom function, premium cloth upholstery, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, SecuriCode keyless-entry pad and the SelectShift feature. Leather-upholstered, the Limited gets all that and the XLT's Driver Connect and Comfort Packages – plus a Sony premium audio system with HD Radio. Safety items include AdvanceTrak with Roll Stability Control and Curve Control, Hill Start Assist, anti-lock brakes (ABS), front/front-side/side-curtain airbags and a rollover sensor.

Optional Equipment

All Explorers offer four-wheel drive (4WD) with multi-mode Terrain Management System and Hill Descent Control. Base model upgrades include SIRIUS Satellite Radio and a tow-prep package while XLT buyers can add the Driver Connect (MyFord Touch/SYNC, premium audio, dual-zone climate control, and rearview camera) and Comfort Packages (all that plus heated leather seats). The Limited's Luxury Seating Package (perforated leather, heated/cooled front buckets, power-folding third-row seat, power liftgate and voice-activated navigation system) is available with/without the 302A Group (Blind Spot Information System, adaptive cruise control, Auto Park, HID headlamps and rain-sensing wipers). Single XLT/Limited options include navigation, dual-panel power moonroof, power liftgate, inflatable second-row outboard seatbelts and the blind spot system.

Under the Hood

The 2012 Explorer's standard engine is Ford's high-tech 3.5-liter Ti-VCT (twin-independent variable camshaft timing) V6 that makes 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. Teamed to a 6-speed automatic, this engine earns a class-leading 17/25 mpg city/highway EPA numbers in front-drive Explorers and 17/23 mpg marks in the 4WD versions; it also serves up 60 mph in roughly 8.0 seconds and gives the Explorer a 5,000-pound max-tow rating. Optional on front-drive models is the new 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine that churns out 240 ponies and 270 pound-feet of twist, but is recommended to run on premium fuel. Fuel economy ratings for the EcoBoost are an estimated 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

2.0-liter turbocharged in-line 4
240 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
270 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750-4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/28

3.5-liter V6
290 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
255 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/25 (FWD), 17/23 (4WD)

Pricing Notes

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) on the 2012 Ford Explorer starts right at $29,000 for a base model with an Explorer XLT opening around $32,000 and the top-line Explorer Limited commanding close to $38,500. Opting for 4-wheel drive will add another $2,000, but even a fully loaded base Explorer should still slip in around $35,000. Although more extensive personalization choices on the XLT and Limited can add $4,000-$5,000 to their bottom lines, they remain solid buys relative to their peers when new. Before you head to the dealership, check the Fair Purchase Price on kbb.com to ensure that you're getting the best deal at your local Ford dealership. When it comes to resale, KBB projects they'll also retain better-than-average residual values over time.

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2012 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

7.7

Out of 10

Based on 86 Ratings for the 2011 - 2014 models.

Review this car

Value

7.8/10

Quality

8.0/10
Reliability

8.1/10

Performance

8.3/10
Comfort

8.4/10

Styling

8.5/10

Ford has stepped up their game!

By RachelK (KY) on Thursday, July 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 3,800

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Room, design, features, gas mileage"

Cons: "Turn signal kinda tricky"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This re-designed Explorer is GREAT! It drives so much better than the previous Explorers and it's soooo roomy! I can fit all of my family's luggage in the back and still have room for visibility and comfort! The wider and longer Explorer make it much more roomy on the inside too, and my kids finally have enough room to fall asleep, if they aren't watching movies! I can not live without the backup camera! I'm so glad Ford did what they did to the Explorer, it has really paid off!!"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Ford should not have re-designed

By What happened to the leg room? (MD) on Tuesday, July 23, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000

10 4.0

overall rating 4 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 4/10
Value: 1/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 5/10
Comfort: Not Rated

Pros: "Back-up camera, MyTouch, Towing Ability"

Cons: "Leg room, Poor visibility, Gas mileage"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"I purchased my 2013 Ford Explorer XLT over two weeks ago and wish I had not. I did not notice what is referred to as the "dead pedal" on the left side of the floor board when test driving but after purchasing realized I could not stretch my left leg out! I am 6'3" which is above average height but I am no giant. The old Explorer had plenty of leg room which is odd that they changed it. I feel cramped whenever I drive long distances because I cannot stretch out in this thing. I took it back to the dealership to see if I could trade it on a F-150 but they informed me I would take a huge loss. I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone who is over 6 feet tall. The new Explorer looks good with some awesome features but not for someone with height."

3 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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Wonderful Machine!

By Jonathan (FL) on Monday, July 22, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 8,600

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "MyFord, Gas Mileage, Comfort, Features"

Cons: "No such thing!"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought this car 2 months ago and I drive all accross town, it gets Great MPG even in the City! At times I was topping out at 24! That's just with the regular V6 engine! The MyFord Touch system is amazingly fast and helpful and the navigation helps me get to where I need to be on time. My Kids have PLENTY of room in the back seats and really enjoy looking out the moonroof and watching movies on the back of the front head-rests. I have owned Explorers all of my life and have no plans of buying anything else!"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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AWESOME!

By HA713 (GA) on Sunday, July 21, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 4,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Nice, high quality, quiet ride"

Cons: "None at all!!"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This Explorer is AMAZING! It has great MPG and handling! I have completed long journeys in this car in comfort and style, and haven't had one problem! This Explorer is a Must-Have!!"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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2013 Ford Explorer Base with Ecoboost

By Mrsb (TX) on Saturday, July 20, 2013

I owned and sold this car
Reason: Husband wanted a new 2014 Mustang - My approximate mileage is 18,500

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Decent price, loved the interior, comfy seats"

Cons: "weird emgrcy brake, sometimes noticeable turbo lag"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I purchased my 2013 Ford Explorer base in May 2012. I upgraded to leather as I did not want cloth that comes with the base model. It was nice but I have a 3 year old and cloth seats wont survive juice spills like leather will. It was an upgrade of 1000 bucks. Totally worth it. I had 2 escapes an 06 and 09 model prior to upgrading to this explorer. I owned a 03 explorer prior to the escapes. I was iffy about the redesign and I did not want to rush out and by the 2011 model when it came out. I test drove this vehicle 3 different times before I decided to proceed with my purchase. I had a few gripes i've listed them here: Cons- The emergency brake would hit my shin on my left leg when entering or exiting the vehicle. I am 5'5 and i think its just awkwardly placed. It didnt seem to bother my husband who is 6'5. They do not come with cabin air filters. After about 9-10 months my ac developed a funk smell. I took it in and was informed i needed a cabin air filter with parts and labor $60 bucks from dealership...crazy. I order the part ($16) and installed myself. You would think paying 30k for a vehicle a cabin air filter would be in there. If you plan to extend rear face and happen to have a large rear facing car seat it can be a pain in the rear. I managed to fit my sons Diono Radian XTSL just fine but it took a little adjusting. Honestly that's the only stuff I can come up with. I fell in love with this truck and while I am sad to see her go I am gaining my husbands 2013 ecoboost f150 with all the options that my base model explorer doesnt have. I averaged over the life of my explorer 22.4 mpg thats with combined city and hwy and I traded her in at aprx 19k miles. I did a lot of city driving/ idling and hwy over my 19k miles. I would spend about 60 bucks every 2 weeks refueling. I can honestly say that when i used premium my explorer performed much more powerfully. She seemed more responsive to acceleration. I used regular unleaded majority of the time. I reserved the premium fuel for when I took the toll roads."

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Ford has out done themselves.

By bskrich (IL) on Friday, May 31, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 17,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "looks quality my touch system and the ride"

Cons: "turn signal lever."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I cant say anything bad about my suv because i would be lying. the ride and comfort make you feel like your gliding on air. the my touch system is very nice. took a bit to get use to the commands it needs to do things but you'll get it."

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

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See all 86 reviews