Edging into the world of work-truck chic is the 2012 Ford F-150 Lariat full-size pickup. This mid-level trim comes in either the 5-passenger SuperCab (rear-opening back doors) or SuperCrew (4 independently opening doors) versions. Astern of the SuperCab Lariat is the standard 6.6-foot bed, while SuperCrew editions can be configured to carry either the standard-length bed or for a more compact rig, the 5.6-foot bed. Standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) can be deleted in favor of available on-demand 4-wheel drive (4WD), with the latter boasting manual hi-lo gear selection and auto-locking hubs. Standard appearance features for this handsome truck include a power sliding rear window, trailer hitch and wiring, 18-inch alloy wheels mounting all-terrain tires (4WD trims) and heated power-adjustable outside mirrors, while the cabin sports leather upholstery, front bucket seats, heated power-adjustable front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and floor mats in front and rear. Further standard amenities include cruise control, dual-zone climate control, driver memory settings, a single-CD player, remote power door locks, power windows, satellite radio and a USB connection. Finally, the upgraded SYNC Applink system, with Smartphone interface, audio control and Bluetooth hands-free communications technology, also comes standard with this hefty hauler.
Options, meantime, include a power moonroof, hard-drive-based navigation, 20-inch aluminum or chrome-clad wheels, tubular running boards, upgraded audio components that include a 6-CD changer, rear-view camera and a hard-drive-based navigation system. Look for a universal remote garage door opener and rear-view camera, among other things in the Lariat Plus Package, while the Off-Road Package (4WD trims only) boasts skid plates and a heftier suspension for some heady all-terrain action.
Standard power for the 2012 Lariat comes from the well-wrought 5.0-liter E85-capable Flex Fuel (FFV) V8 mated with the ubiquitous 6-speed automatic transmission. This matchup throws down 360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, good enough to tow 10,000 pounds of trailer when properly equipped. EPA-estimated gas mileage for RWD versions is 15 mpg city/21 highway and for 4WD trims, 14/19. Then there’s the available turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and 6-speed automatic combo, putting out 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque and able to tow up to 11,300 pounds (RWD) with the proper equipment. Mileage with this potent turbo V6 is estimated at 16/22 with RWD and 15/21 with 4WD.
Primary standard safety features for the new F-150 Lariat include 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags and front side-mounted airbags. Further safety equipment includes Ford’s My Key programmable speed and volume governors, a post-collision safety system, turn-signal-integrated mirrors, a trailer brake controller, front fog/driving lights, dusk-sensing headlights and a remote antitheft alarm.
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