What is the fuel economy of a 2012 Ford Explorer L 100km?
A 2012 Ford Explorer with the common L-trim configuration typically achieves about 12.4 liters per 100 kilometers (L/100 km) on combined driving, based on EPA estimates for the era. Real-world results can vary, but this gives a baseline for most 2012 Explorers equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine.
The 2012 Explorer marked Ford’s return to a traditional SUV layout, with the most common powertrain being the 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6. Fuel economy depends on whether the vehicle is two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), as well as the driving conditions and maintenance. This article outlines the official EPA figures and how they translate into L/100 km for this model year.
EPA ratings by configuration
EPA estimates provide a baseline for a typical Explorer of this vintage. The following figures reflect the 3.5L V6 configuration and conversions to metric consumption (L/100 km).
- Two-wheel-drive (2WD) with 3.5L V6: 19 mpg combined, which converts to about 12.4 L/100 km.
- Four-wheel-drive (4WD) with 3.5L V6: 19 mpg combined, which converts to about 12.4 L/100 km.
In more familiar EPA terms, this breaks down to roughly 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, equating to about 13.8 L/100 km city and 10.2 L/100 km highway. EPA numbers are guidelines and real-world mileage will vary based on driving style, terrain, cargo, and vehicle condition.
Real-world driving considerations
Actual fuel economy for the 2012 Explorer can differ from EPA ratings due to factors such as load (passengers and cargo), roof rack usage, tire type and pressure, acceleration patterns, and average road grade. Expect a typical real-world range that may fall between roughly 11–14 L/100 km depending on conditions.
Context and note on model variants
The specific trim level and drivetrain can influence fuel economy figures slightly, but for the 2012 Explorer L with the standard 3.5L V6, the combined figure of about 12.4 L/100 km is representative. Later Explorer generations introduced other engines (including EcoBoost options) that improved efficiency, but those changes do not apply to the 2012 model year in the U.S. market.
The figures above come from EPA ratings available at the time and subsequent automotive data compilations. For buyers or owners, maintaining proper tire pressure, following recommended maintenance schedules, and avoiding unnecessary weight can help approach these estimates in daily use.
Summary
In metric terms, the typical 2012 Ford Explorer L with the common 3.5L V6 achieves about 12.4 L/100 km combined, with city/highway splits around 13.8 L/100 km (city) and 10.2 L/100 km (highway). Real-world mileage varies with driving conditions, and updates to engines in later years led to improved efficiency in other model years.
What is the fuel economy of the Explorer L 100km?
The Explorer equipped with this engine and rear-wheel drive achieves an estimated fuel economy of: City: 11.2 L/100km. Highway: 8.4 L/100km.
What year to stay away from Ford Explorer?
Otherwise, going back further in time, Explorers from 2002 to 2006 are generally to be avoided because of problems with the transmission (especially in 2002 and 2006), engine, brakes, paintwork, air conditioning and windows.
Do Ford Explorers get good gas mileage?
The 2024 Ford Explorer base model boasts impressive mpg estimates, reaching up to 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with rear-wheel drive and a four-cylinder engine.
What is the gas mileage on a 2012 Ford Explorer 3.5 V6?
Mechanical
| Gasoline Fuel | |
| EPA Fuel Economy Est - City (MPG) | 18 |
| EPA Fuel Economy Est - Hwy (MPG) | 25 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx (gal.) | 18.6 |
