Ford has once again revived a storied nameplate from its European heritage, this time reimagining the iconic Capri as an all-electric crossover aimed at the European market. Departing significantly from its historical roots as a sporty coupe, the new Ford Capri embraces the future of mobility with a sleek, electric SUV design built upon Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform.
Heritage Reimagined –
The original Ford Capri, known affectionately as the “Euro Mustang,” captivated enthusiasts with its fastback coupe design and sporty performance. It was a symbol of driving pleasure and accessibility, much like its American counterpart. In contrast, the new Capri takes a bold step into the electric era, emphasizing sustainability and innovation over the traditional combustion engine thrill.
Design and Styling –
While the classic Capri was defined by its sweeping fastback profile, the modern Capri SUV adopts a contemporary crossover stance. Its roofline, although not a classic coupe silhouette, hints at coupe influences with a nearly flat roof and a refined, sedan-like appearance from the side. The design cues echo modern trends with a nod to the past, such as the horseshoe-shaped rear window and distinctive shoulder line.
Inside, the Capri boasts a spacious cabin reminiscent of the conventional Explorer, with a vertically oriented 14.6-inch touchscreen that can adjust for optimal visibility. The interior features modern amenities like heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and a suite of driver assistance technologies, reflecting Ford’s commitment to comfort and convenience.
Powertrain and Performance –
Underneath its sleek exterior, the new Capri packs an electric punch. The base model features a rear-wheel-drive layout powered by a single electric motor delivering 282 horsepower and 402 lb.-ft. of torque. This configuration accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in a respectable 6.4 seconds, suitable for daily driving and occasional spirited runs.
For those seeking more power and traction, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant enhances performance with a combined output of 335 horsepower and 501 lb.-ft. of torque. This setup propels the Capri from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.3 seconds, providing a thrilling driving experience without compromising on efficiency.
Utility and Range –
Despite its coupe-inspired design elements, practicality remains a priority for the Capri. It offers 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 53.3 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. These figures surpass even its stablemate, the Explorer, making the Capri a versatile choice for both everyday errands and weekend adventures.
Range anxiety is addressed with a robust battery pack—77 kWh for the rear-wheel-drive model and 79 kWh for the all-wheel-drive variant. The rear-wheel-drive Capri achieves an impressive WLTP range of 390 miles, while the all-wheel-drive version delivers 368 miles on a single charge. Fast charging capabilities further enhance convenience, with the ability to recharge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 28 minutes for the base model and 26 minutes for the dual-motor variant.
Market Position and Pricing –
Set to be manufactured in Cologne, Germany, the new Capri aims to capture the hearts of European drivers with its blend of heritage and innovation. Pricing starts at €51,950 ($56,180 USD) for the rear-wheel-drive model, positioning it competitively within the electric crossover segment. While availability in other markets like the United States remains uncertain, the Capri represents Ford’s commitment to expanding its electrified lineup and honoring its European legacy.
