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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2012 Ford F150 Super Cab

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Ford F150 Super Cab

Overview

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2012 Ford F150 Super Cab Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 8.3

Holding the title of America's best-selling pickup truck for 34 years running is no small feat, which is why the 2012 Ford F-150 pickup deserves every accolade it receives. With stiff competition from Ram and Chevy, not to mention Toyota and Nissan's full-size entries, Ford refuses to rest on its laurels, continuing to improve the F-150 full-size pickup with new features and better mechanical components. Last year, Ford gave the F-150 all-new engines and transmissions, and this year there's expanded use of an electronic locking rear axle replacing the old limited-slip unit. Yet, despite all its improvements, the 2012 Ford F-150 remains a tough workhorse designed to tackle big payload and towing jobs. With class-leading capabilities, impressive fuel economy and the only turbocharged 6-cylinder engine in the segment, the more than 30 different version of America's favorite pickup truck should continue to set sales records and send the competition scrambling to keep up.

You'll Like This Car If...

"Built Ford Tough" isn't just an advertising slogan, it's the reason the Ford F-150 is the best-selling truck in the country. An impressive range of models and options permits the F-150 to be everything from a simple work truck to a super-plush family hauling machine.

You May Not Like This Car If...

With its strong resale and reliability ratings, about the only reason not to like the 2012 F-150 comes down to whether you like its bold and boxy styling.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

8.3
Driving Dynamics

7.6
Comfort & Convenience

7.8
Design: Interior & Exterior

8.0
Value

8.0
Safety

8.0

How It Ranks

#7

out of 31

MPG

#12

out of 31

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

8.7 out of 10

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consumer ratings

2012 Ford F150 Super Cab Low/wide front photo

What's New for 2012

The 2012 F-150 pickup receives a few important new features, beginning with the addition of Hill Start Assist and the inclusion of neutral tow assist on all 4x4 trucks. A new automatic 4x4 system is added to Lariat and higher trims, while a new FX Appearance package adds flat-black wheels and accents, black leather seats with red piping, and FX graphics. The FX Luxury package gains heated and cooling front seats.

Driving the F150 Super Cab

2012 Ford F150 Super Cab Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions Despite its impressive payload and towing ability, the 2012 Ford F-150 doesn't ride like a stiffly-sprung work truck. In fact, it rides more like a plush Lincoln SUV. Every version...

of the F-150 we tested was devoid of a rough ride, with no shudder or hopping over rough or unpaved roads and a level of quiet unheard of (no pun intended) in a full-size pickup. Each version also provided ample power, with the least-liked engine being the base V6, and the most appreciated being the new twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6. Thanks to the F-150's electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), we experienced a level of steering feel and control that belied the big Ford's size and heft. Perhaps most impressive was the towing demonstration in which we hauled 20-foot trailers with absolutely zero drama, thanks in large part to the pickup's trailer sway control, rearview camera and integrated trailer brake controller.

Favorite Features

Tailgate Step
Designed to deal with the awkward and potentially dangerous chore of getting into the pickup truck's bed, the integrated tailgate step on the 2012 Ford F-150 scores big. It deploys easily and even offers a safety hand-hold.

Roomy SuperCrew Cab
The cab in the 2012 F-150 SuperCrew is so roomy it out-measures some full-size sedans. In fact, the rear-seat legroom is absolutely limousine-like, and the mechanically-articulated second-row seat flips up and out of the way, delivering an ample 57.6 cubic feet of space behind the front seats.

2012 Ford F150 Super Cab Details

2012 Ford F150 Super Cab Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

The 2012 Ford F-150 has a sophisticated yet practical truck interior. Knowing that the hands controlling the F-150 will often be clad in some type of glove, be it work or ski, the F-150's design team has created buttons, knobs and switches that are slightly oversized, widely spaced and easy to reach. A thoughtful center console design can swallow two or more laptops or tablets; there are even slotted ridges along the sides for holding hanging files in place. In fact, there are clever storage compartments throughout the 2012 F-150's cabin for holding everything from beverages to cell phones. There are even two 12-volt outlets, one on the dash and one in the console, for recharging portable electronics, and an available 110-volt outlet. As for overall comfort, we think the F-150's contoured front seats are among the most comfortable in the class. The same goes for the rears seats, at least those on SuperCrew models.

Exterior

With the exception of one generation late in the 1990s, the F-150 has always had an easily-identifiable boxy shape. The 2012 Ford F-150 continues the tradition but adds a healthy dose of oversized ornamentation (think grille, bumpers and mirrors) usually covered in chrome on upper trims. The 2012 F-150 features a strong front end, powerful shoulders and a tall bed wall creating a nice, deep box. Those tall bed walls, however, can be a bit of a hindrance when trying to access a tool box or gear in the bed's center. Understanding this problem, Ford offers an extendable side step on most models. Ford's 3-bar grille receives varying styling treatments depending on the trim level, ranging from simple black plastic pieces on base trucks, to a black mesh grille with the Ford name spelled out in huge block letters on the SVT Raptor, to a chrome-slathered behemoth found on the King Ranch and Platinum versions.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2012 Ford F-150 full-size truck comes in flavors ranging from plain vanilla all the way to banana split with whipped cream, nuts and sprinkles, but one thing all levels share is a robust, hydro-formed, boxed-section chassis that offers superior torsional rigidity while actually being lighter than the old-fashioned ladder frames of the past. The level of standard safety equipment is truly outstanding, including AdvanceTrac with RSC traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Safety Canopy side-curtain airbags with roll-fold technology for enhanced head protection in rollovers and side impacts. Safety is also enhanced by front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, "smart" airbags and seatbelts, a second-row center head restraint and integrated spotter mirrors.

Optional Equipment

For those who really use their pickup trucks as trucks, the 2012 Ford F-150 offers some exclusive options that are right on the money. Our two favorites are the integral tailgate step that makes clambering into the box easy and the spring-out box side steps that make reaching into the vehicle's deep cargo box much more convenient. Also earning high marks are the stowable bed extender and beefy cargo management system. And for those who have ever left a tool on a work site, never to see it again, the Tool Link radio-frequency identification tracking system enables you to maintain a detailed real-time inventory of the tools and/or equipment stored in the pickup box. When it's kick-back time, Ford's SYNC, SIRIUS Travel Link and a high-powered Sony brand audio system help you while away the time.

Under the Hood

Do you want a gasoline engine or a gasoline engine? Perhaps the only shortfall with the 2012 F-150 is the lack of a diesel option, but the four available gasoline engines – two V6s and two V8s – offer reasonable fuel economy, aided significantly by the addition of a 6-speed automatic transmission. A twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 is offered, a first for this segment and an engine that promises both strong performance and good fuel economy. Both the 3.7-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8 are fitted with fuel-saving twin-independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) technology and, for towing needs, nothing can beat the two-valve-per-cylinder 6.2-liter V8's best-in-class 11,300-pound tow rating.

3.7-liter V6
302 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
278 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/23 (2WD), 16/21 (4WD), 12/17 (2WD, E85), 12/15 (4WD, E85)

3.5-liter V6, Twin-Turbocharged
365 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
420 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/22 (2WD), 15/21 (4WD)

5.0-liter V8
360 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
380 lb-ft of torque @ 4,250
EPA city/high fuel economy: 15/21 (2WD), 14/19 (4WD), 11/15 (2WD, E85), 10/14 (4WD, E85)

6.2-liter V8
411 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
434 lb-ft of torque @ 4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 13/18 (2WD), 12/16 (4WD)

Pricing Notes

With more than 30 different variants, the 2012 Ford F-150 pickup pricing chart covers a wide spread. Regular Cab XL models have a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) right around $24,000, while a fully-laden Platinum SuperCrew can run well over $50,000. Somewhere in between those two extremes is where most buyers will find themselves. A look at the Fair Purchase Price on kbb.com shows the typical transaction price being paid for the 2012 Ford F-150 in your area, so be sure to check it out before you set out to buy. The 2012 Ford F-150 is expected to retain a better-than-average residual value, with the SuperCrew models at the top of the chart, followed by the Regular Cab and then the SuperCab. Over a 5-year period, the F-150's projected residual value is expected to be nearly on par with the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra, better than the Ram 1500 and Nissan Titan, but slightly below the Toyota Tundra.

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2012 Ford F150 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.7

Out of 10

Based on 488 Ratings for the 2009 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

8.6/10

Quality

8.8/10
Reliability

9.0/10

Performance

8.9/10
Comfort

9.1/10

Styling

9.2/10

Best Truck in the World....period.

By Nova1962 (PA) on Tuesday, July 30, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,700

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: "Power, technology, quality"

Cons: "none"

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

"These trucks are built for work and performance. I pulled my 26 ft. tow-behind camper half way across Pennsylvania and my 2013 F150 drove like there was no load on it even though I had the bed half full of fire wood and bicycles and other camping gear in addition to the full-loaded camper! The 5L V8 didn't even downshift much on the many hills enroute either. Can't brag this truck up more. The changeable instrument panel is a nice touch and the technology available while you drive is absolutely amazing. Getting great gas mileage too."

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Finest vehicle I have ever owned

By Big guy (VA) on Friday, July 26, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 42,000

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: "Fun, and it has 10 cup holders"

Cons: "I cannot say anything negative"

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

"This is the vehicle for anyone that wants comfort, luxury, convenience, decent mileage, great power, the convenience of 4 wheel drive, and all the bells and whistles you could possibly want. I have driven it several times to Ohio and never even stopped during the 7 hour trip. The 36 gallon tank allows me to go as much as 700 miles without filling up, and I get positive comments everywhere I go about the great looks. The back seat is larger than any sedan I have owned including a full size Lincoln Town Car. I would strongly recommend this vehicle to anyone. It is especially comfortable for big people. At 6'2" and 300 plus pounds, I have no trouble getting in or out of the vehicle and it is extremely comfortable."

2 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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This is a Great Truck

By BAR (TX) on Wednesday, July 24, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 18,500

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "All around good truck"

Cons: "Price"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I am on my fifth Fseries and I love these trucks. Now with the 6.2L, this truck is perfect. I have had some small problems with my truck like a new front wheel bearing and a bad backup camera, but in all this is a great truck. Rides nice, well thought out cabin and runs great!"

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Well built truck!

By Alex (CA) on Tuesday, July 23, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 400

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: Not Rated
Quality: 7/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Spacious, fun to drive, phenominal brakes"

Cons: "Steering response and poorly positioned controls"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I just bought this truck a couple of weeks ago and have thoroughly enjoyed it. I have owned mostly all Hondas and Toyotas and this is my first brand new Ford. I used to own a Ford Ranger but I am very impressed with the 2013 F-150 SuperCrew Cab. I think the steering is less responsive compared to other vehicles I have driven and the interior plastic is a little cheap in my opinion. I am confident that this thing is gonna last for the long haul and thats why I made the purchase without hesitation. I am not a fan of the center controls in the truck either...they are a little too far away for convenience in the driving position. I am 5'11 and feel a little distracted from the road any time I need to lean over and make any adjustments. Hope this helps! I am confident with this truck and think it will make any owner happy!"

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Engine Failure from Condensation

By Texas Truck Man (TX) on Wednesday, July 17, 2013

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

10 2.0

overall rating 2 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 2/10
Value: 1/10
Reliability: 1/10
Quality: 1/10
Performance: 6/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Looks Nice"

Cons: "Not Reliable"

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

"This is the worst new vehicle I have owned in 50 years and my last Ford. Ford has no solution to the condensation build up in the engine and the damage it has caused."

4 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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Don't buy this truck!

By Disappointed (AL) on Sunday, July 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 4,200

10 1.0

overall rating 1 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 1/10
Value: 1/10
Reliability: 1/10
Quality: 1/10
Performance: Not Rated
Styling: Not Rated
Comfort: 3/10

Pros: "It's a good looking truck"

Cons: "Looks don't matter if it's poorly engineered"

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

"I was extremely happy the day I purchased my new F-150 Lariat 4X4 with Ecoboost, but over the next 4000 miles I have grown very unhappy with the truck. To start, there are widespread problems reported with these Ecoboost engines losing power during humid or raining conidtions under hard acceleration (merging onto a highway, passing, etc.)and my truck is no exception. I was almost run off the road by a big rig because the engine misfired and check engine light began flashing. Again, a well known problem by Ford and dealers with no known fix at hand. The NHTSA has an open investigation because of the problem. Ford however, says they are working on it, and it's safe to drive until they come up with a fix. How they can say it's safe to drive a truck that loses power when you need it most and it's to the point you are a traffic hazard is beyond me. Then there is the steering. The first couple thousand miles were fine, but now it feels like the shocks are lose or something else in the front end it lose. The dealer drove it and agreed, but checked it out and couldn't find anything notably wrong so they rotated and balanced the tires. This has not fixed the problem and there are other problems just like it posted by consumers on the national highway traffic safety agency website. As much as I like some other things about the truck, if the basics like engine and steering are major engineering issues the cosmetics just don't matter. Ford's customer service (not dealer)is pathetic and and I can't recommend this truck to anyone nor will I purchase another Ford because of the poor customer service."

10 people out of 15 found this review helpful

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