The 2012 Ford Explorer is powered by a 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine.
For that model year, Ford did not offer an EcoBoost option; the 3.5-liter V6 is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and is available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on configuration.
Engine specifications
Key specifications and characteristics of the 3.5-liter V6 engine used in the 2012 Explorer are listed below.
- Engine: 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 (Duratec)
- Horsepower: around 290 hp
- Torque: around 255 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic with Drive and SelectShift
- Drivetrain options: rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
These specifications summarize the engine option for the 2012 Explorer and its typical performance profile for that year.
Notes on later model years
EcoBoost introduction
In 2013, Ford expanded Explorer powertrains with the addition of a 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder as an optional engine, followed by other refinements in subsequent years. The 2012 model did not offer the EcoBoost engine.
Summary
The 2012 Ford Explorer relies on a single engine option: a 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 producing roughly 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and available with either rear- or all-wheel drive. EcoBoost did not appear in the 2012 lineup but was introduced in later years.