Europe’s most controversial car? That has to be the all-electric Ford Capri. Reviving a name long synonymous with sporty nostalgia, the SUV has brought heated debate into focus in Britain. Some admire its modern practicality, but others bemoan its divergence from the style of the iconic 1970s original. Still, if the fuss has been worth it, the new Capri is solid, if uninspired, at least in its entry into the EV market.
A Controversial Rebirth
For some, Ford’s decision to revive the “Capri” nameplate for this electric SUV has been in poor taste. A much-loved icon of accessible sportiness, the original Capri is warmly remembered in British automotive history. Those who worshipped at the altar of the beautiful, rear-wheel-drive coupé were not exactly anticipating the family-friendly EV built on VW’s MEB platform. Borrows its underpinnings from VW’s ID lineup, Ford adds its touches and assembles the vehicle in Cologne, Germany.
Drive Experience: Smooth but Not Groundbreaking
For a 4,828-lb vehicle, the Ford Capri feels surprisingly pleasant to drive. With its dual-motor setup making 340 bhp and 501 lb-ft of torque, it launches from 0-62 mph in 5.3 seconds. Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual modes are available, but most drivers will probably find themselves in one of the two energy-saving options, Eco or Normal.
The Capri will confidently handle city streets and winding country roads. Its steering, though not especially dynamic, is well-weighted, leaving the ride comfortably passenger-friendly. It boasts a quiet cabin and smooth performance on the highway, supported by advanced noise-cancellation measures and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Range, Charging, and Tech Features
The Capri’s 79 kWh battery provides a range of up to 346 miles, though real-world driving often reduces this to around 2.9 mi/kWh. Fast charging at 185 kW allows for a 10-80% recharge in about 26 minutes, making long trips relatively stress-free. Inside, the 14.6-inch infotainment screen impresses with responsive controls and useful features, including Apple CarPlay, charging station locators, and over-the-air updates.
Features for Europe’s Most Controversial Car
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Price | £56,175 ($69,000) |
| As-Tested Price | £60,325 ($74,000) |
| Battery Options | 52 kWh, 77 kWh, 79 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | 243 to 390 miles (depending on battery and drive type) |
| Efficiency | 3.8 mi/kWh (official), 2.9 mi/kWh (real-world mixed driving) |
| Charging Speed | 185 kW Max DC Fast Charging (10-80% in ~26 minutes) |
| Drivetrain | Single motor (RWD) or dual motor (AWD) |
| Power Output | 340 bhp |
| Torque | 501 lb-ft |
| 0-62 MPH | 5.3 seconds |
| Weight | 4,828 lbs |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal, Sport, Individual, Traction |
| Infotainment | 14.6-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, OTA updates |
| Sound System | Bang & Olufsen premium audio |
| Interior Features | Heated seats, heated steering wheel, hidden storage compartment |
| Build Platform | Volkswagen MEB (shared with ID.4, ID.5, etc.) |
| Charging Infrastructure | Charging location suggestions via infotainment |
| Trims | Select (standard equipment) and Premium (additional luxury features) |
| Notable Features | One-pedal driving, automated driver assistance, panoramic roof option |
Verdict: Solid, but Not Revolutionary
The new Ford Capri is hardly earth-shattering. While it promises a smooth and comfortable ride with decent EV credentials, it certainly doesn’t revolutionize the game. Its name will probably remain its most provocative feature, to say the least, stirring many debates among aficionados. Still, for those who can tolerate the change, the Capri provides a respectable and family-friendly electric experience if you go for the bright yellow paint job.
Also, see: Tesla announces price hike on all electric vehicles in Canada