If you’re a car fan of the 80s, you can’t help but remember the original Ford Capri. The Mustang-lite for Europe was launched in 1968, spanned three generations, and was discontinued in 1987, when coupes weren’t cool anymore.
Ford has a ‘future grounded in iconic models,’ as explained by Ford Europe Design boss Amko Leenarts, who has led the resurrection of the ‘Capri’. The use of the name isn’t surprising, but it and some styling cues, are the only links to the original.
What the Capri is, is a sportier looking and driving version of the Volkswagen-based Ford Explorer sister car. Rather than a coupe, this Capri has gained a pair of extra doors, and the taller stance of an SUV. In fact, it’s 4,634mm long, 2,063mm wide and 1,626mm tall, similar to the Volkswagen ID.5, which isn’t surprising, as they share the same platform.
Where the Capri differs from the Explorer, is that like the original, the new car gets a coupe-like shape, with a curvier window line. Another link to the original is the bespoke front end where the distinctive LED headlights, and ‘dog bone’ wraparound contrasting grille, are a direct nod to the Mk3 Capri.
The back of the new Ford looks similarly retro, with the large, wraparound LED-lit rear lights and ‘Capri’ badging.
Inside, this Capri feels largely like the Explorer on which it’s based. So, there’s the same 14.6in central touchscreen that slide back to reveal a ‘secret’ stowage cubbie, and the 17-litre ‘megaconsole’ between the front seats. It is more practical than the original, with 527-litres of boot space. Although, Ford has turned up the sporty wick, with one-piece sports seats, and a squared-off steering wheel, for this new EV.
The new Capri will be available in single-motor 77kWh and dual-motor 79kWh versions, both with a company car tax BIK figure of just 2%. The 77kWh version gives 390 miles of range and can be charged at 135kW, whereas the Premium range-topper with 79kWh is capable of 368 miles of range and can be charged at up to 185kW.
Prices for the Capri start at £42,075, and it will be available to order later this year.
