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Ford F-150 Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Ford F-150 ranks 1 out of 10 Full Size Pickup Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 51 published reviews and test drives of the Ford F-150, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

For 2012, the Ford F-150 continues to be a comfortable and supremely capable full-size pickup truck that can be configured to fit almost any budget or use.

Test drivers say that one of the 2012 Ford F-150’s greatest attributes is how much it can be customized. Among its 10 trim levels, four powertrains, three cab styles and three bed lengths, you can configure an F-150 for hardcore work, luxurious commuting, off-road adventuring and nearly anything in between. Reviewers say that even the most basic trim is easy to use and well laid-out, and that both V6 engines are economical yet decently capable.

However, the areas where the F-150 falls short are when it’s compared with its rivals. Test drivers say that competitors like the Ram 1500 have a smoother ride and an even more decadent top-of-the-line trim. The Chevrolet Avalanche has more car-like handling than the F-150 while retaining truck-like capabilities, and the GMC Sierra 1500 costs less.

Overall, this means that full-size pickup shoppers have a wealth of choices available. Still, reviewers say that the Ford F-150 is worth a look to anyone shopping for a pickup. It’s one of the most fuel-efficient trucks on the market, and has a brawny towing capacity that can handle most light-duty tasks. "All said, though, the F-150 is still one of the most appealing trucks on the market thanks to its user-friendly features and pleasant driving dynamics,” writes Edmunds.

Other Trucks to Consider

Test drivers say that the Ram 1500 has a smoother ride than the Ford F-150, thanks to its more-advanced suspension. Though that somewhat decreases its towing capacity compared with the Ford, it also comes with more luxurious interior trim options. Together, that means the Ram is a better choice if you plan on using your truck more for commuting than towing.

If you’re looking for a no-frills, capable work truck and you can sacrifice a bit of interior luxury, consider the GMC Sierra 1500. It offers a host of engines, cab configurations and bed options, as well as a hybrid model. Plus, its price is competitive with the F-150’s as well.

In the pickup truck world, buyers tend to have brand loyalties that run deep. But reviewers say that for the most part, the full-size trucks on the market are all pretty good vehicles, so it’s hard to make a bad choice no matter which truck you buy.

Details: Ford F-150

The 2012 Ford F-150 is available in 10 different trims, ranging from a bare-bones base model to the luxurious King Ranch. Depending on the trim, you can outfit your F-150 with a regular, extended or crew cab, one of four engines and a short, standard or long bed.

For this model year, the F-150 adds hill start assist, greater availability of electronic locking rear axles, an FX appearance package and an upgraded four-wheel drive system.

See the full list of 2012 Ford F-150 specifications.

• "Last year's wholesale engine updates made the perennially popular F-150-more folks buy one than any other vehicle annually-even better. The interiors are nice, the chassis is rugged, and enthusiasts can dig the Raptor, which rockets across desert landscapes like a dealer-ready trophy truck.” -- Car and Driver

• "Ford's F-150 remains a Best Buy in this class for its depth and breadth of powertrains, body styles, bed lengths, features, and overall capability. … The F-150 shines and remains a must-see for those shopping full-size pickups.”-- Consumer Guide
• "If you want a truck with serious towing and payload capabilities, yet as quiet and comfortable as many luxury sedans, then the F-150 should surely be on your shopping list.” -- Kelley Blue Book

F-150 Performance - 8.6 (Very Good)

Besides a few gripes about its steering, test drivers say the 2012 Ford F-150 is one of the most capable full-size pickup trucks on the market. Read More

F-150 Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)

Reviewers say the Ford F-150 is an especially muscular and tough-looking truck. The Ford F-150 has “an imposing front end, strong shoulders and a deep, deep pickup box,” writes Kelley Blue Book. View Photos

F-150 Interior - 9.1 (Excellent)

Whether you choose a bare-bones basic trim or a higher-end luxe trim, reviewers say the cabin of the 2012 Ford F-150 is a comfortable and functional place to be. Read More

F-150 Safety - 9.4 (Excellent)

The 2012 Ford F-150 gets excellent safety scores from the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  Read More

F-150 Reliability - 4.0 of 5

The 2012 Ford F-150 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. The 2012 Ford F-150 comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Read More