The 2012 Ford F-250 Super Duty was available in four trim levels (the Platinum trim was introduced in 2013). Below is a breakdown of the trim levels, key features, towing capabilities, and optional packages for each.
2012 Ford F-250 Trim Levels & Features
Trim Level
XL (Base Model)
XLT (Mid-Level Work Truck)
Lariat (Luxury & Performance Mix)
King Ranch (Western-Themed Luxury)
Key Features
- 6.2L V8 Gas Engine (6.7L Diesel optional)
- Vinyl seats & flooring
- AM/FM radio
- Manual windows & locks
- Black grille & bumpers
- 17” steel wheels
- Vinyl seats & flooring
- AM/FM radio
- Manual windows & locks
- Black grille & bumpers
- 17” steel wheels
- Cloth seats
- Power windows & locks
- SYNC infotainment system
- Chrome grille & bumpers
- 18” alloy wheels
- Trailer brake controller
- Power windows & locks
- SYNC infotainment system
- Chrome grille & bumpers
- 18” alloy wheels
- Trailer brake controller
- Leather-trimmed seats
- 8” MyFord Touch infotainment
- Dual-zone climate control
- Power-adjustable pedals
- Premium Sony audio system
- Fog lights & keyless entry
- 8” MyFord Touch infotainment
- Dual-zone climate control
- Power-adjustable pedals
- Premium Sony audio system
- Fog lights & keyless entry
- Unique “King Ranch” leather seats
- Heated & ventilated front seats
- Power-folding & telescoping tow mirrors
- Wood grain interior accents
- Remote start
- 20” chrome wheels
- Heated & ventilated front seats
- Power-folding & telescoping tow mirrors
- Wood grain interior accents
- Remote start
- 20” chrome wheels
Best For
Work truck, fleet use, budget buyers
Work & personal use, budget-friendly with more features
Balanced comfort & towing, ideal for daily use & work
Ranch owners, towing, high-end style & comfort
Note: The Platinum trim was not available in 2012 (it debuted in 2013).
2012 F-250 Engine Options & Towing Capacities
Engine
6.2L V8 Gas – 385 HP / 405 lb-ft Torque
6.7L Power Stroke Diesel V8 – 400 HP / 800 lb-ft Torque
Max Conventional Towing
12,500 lbs
14,000 lbs
Max 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing
15,800 lbs
31,200 lbs
Max Payload
~4,290 lbs
~4,050 lbs
The diesel engine is the best option for heavy towing, especially with a gooseneck or 5th-wheel trailer.
2012 F-250 Cab & Bed Configurations
- Cab Choices: Regular Cab, SuperCab, Crew Cab
- Bed Lengths: 6.75-ft Short Bed, 8-ft Long Bed
Optional Packages & Features by Trim Level
XL (Base Work Truck)
- STX Appearance Package (adds chrome bumpers, grille, and 18″ alloy wheels)
- Power Equipment Group (adds power windows, locks, keyless entry)
- XL Décor Package (adds upgraded trim and sound insulation)
Snow Plow Prep Package (heavier alternator, wiring for plow)
Camper Package (heavier suspension for carrying campers)
Best For: Budget buyers, fleet trucks, worksite use
XLT (Mid-Level Work Truck)
- XLT Value Package (adds fog lights, power-adjustable pedals, auto-dimming rearview mirror)
- FX4 Off-Road Package (adds skid plates, off-road tuned shocks, hill descent control)
- Camper Package (heavy-duty rear suspension & stabilizer bars)
- Trailer Tow Package (integrated trailer brake controller, extra cooling)
- Snow Plow Prep Package (for heavy-duty plowing needs)
- Chrome Package (adds chrome grille, tow hooks, exhaust tips)
Best For: Those wanting a well-equipped work truck with more comfort
Lariat (Luxury & Towing Balance)
- Lariat Ultimate Package (adds navigation, power tailgate release, remote start, memory seats, moonroof)
- FX4 Off-Road Package (adds off-road shocks, skid plates, hill descent control)
- 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Hitch Prep Package (adds in-bed hitch mounting points)
- Chrome Package (adds chrome mirror caps, exhaust tips, tow hooks)
- Snow Plow Prep Package
- Camper Package
Best For: Those who want both towing power & comfort for daily use
King Ranch (Premium Western-Themed Luxury)
- King Ranch Ultimate Package (adds navigation, power moonroof, tailgate step, remote start)
- 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Package
- FX4 Off-Road Package
- Snow Plow Prep Package
- Camper Package
Best For: Ranch owners, horse trailers, high-end towing needs
Which Trim & Package Should You Get for Towing?
- For Heavy Towing (30,000+ lbs): → 6.7L Diesel, F-250 Lariat or King Ranch, 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Package
- For Light-Medium Towing (12,000-18,000 lbs): → XLT or Lariat with the Trailer Tow Package
- For Off-Road & Towing: → FX4 Package + Diesel Engine (on XLT, Lariat, King Ranch)