2012 Ford F-Series Total Car Score Analysis

For years, the Ford F-Series pickup has been the best-selling vehicle in the U.S., car or truck, and the segment-topping Total Car Score earned by the 2012 F-150 indicates the latest model isn’t giving any ground to its competitors.  
 
The trait the media appreciated most about the F-150 is its versatility, as its model lineup spans seemingly every truck buyer’s needs, from no-frills work-oriented models to several posh high-end editions. Complaints about the F-150 were few, though a couple of critics felt its ride quality wasn’t as good as some of the competition.  
 
The last few years have seen a complete revamp of the F-150 line, with four all-new engines added to the mix last year. For 2012 Ford has made no major changes but has tweaked several of its models.  
 
FX2 and FX4 versions are now outfitted with a new appearance package that offers 20-inch wheels; Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum editions receive a new 4WD system with an automatic mode that engages the front wheels in low-traction situations without the need for driver input; and all models receive Hill Start Assist -- all aimed at making the 2012 Ford F-150 even more user friendly, says its maker.

2012 Ford F-Series Model Line-Up

The 2012 Ford F-150 is available in a wide range of variations, with regular cab, SuperCab and SuperCrew bodies, four engines, 4x2 and 4x4 powertrains, three bed lengths and no fewer than 10 distinct models, from the base XL to the top-tier King Ranch and Premium editions (plus the F-150 SVT Raptor covered separately).  
 
Interior amenities range from the vinyl seats in the XL to leather upholstery, heated and cooled seats, a rearview camera and Ford’s SYNC connectivity system in higher-end models.  
 
The F-150’s base engine is a 3.7-liter V6 producing 302 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. The 3.5-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6 makes 365 hp and 420 lb-ft, bettering the 5.0-liter V8, which is good for 360 hp and 380 lb-ft. The top-dog engine is a 6.2-liter V8 rated at 411 hp and 434 lb-ft. All are backed by six-speed automatic transmissions.  
 
Fuel economy varies widely depending on the powertrain: The EcoBoost V6 in a 2WD truck is EPA rated at 16 mpg city, 22 highway and 18 combined, while the 6.2 V8 in a 4x4 earned a 12/16/13 rating.  
 
Properly equipped, a 2012 Ford F-150 can tow up to 11,300 pounds and carry up to 3,060 pounds of payload.

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