The Ford Capri Returns: Has It Retained Its Soul in the Electric Age?

The Capri is back. Let that sink in for a moment. For generations of driving enthusiasts, that name conjures powerful and sometimes traumatic images of long bonnets, roaring V6 engines, and an almost entirely European take on the muscle car formula. It wasn’t just a car; it was a cultural touchstone, representing obtainable performance and style. Bringing the legendary name back from the dead is a bold move on Ford’s part, but it comes with a massive twist that already has people shaking their heads: the new Capri will be a sleek, all-electric SUV-coupe. It’s a clear nod toward the future, but still raises a basic question: can a new EV capture the spirit of a car that defined an era of inexpensive fun?

The challenge Ford has embraced is daunting. It’s a lot more than just slapping a familiar badge onto a different vehicle. What follows is an attempt to distil these intangibles: the defiant attitude, driver-focused involvement, and eye-catching design and then reformat them for a new generation of drivers. This redesigned Capri has to win over those who lived the original with a smile and pick up a new audience by traditional electric vehicle (EV) buyers looking for leading-edge technology, pragmatism and the thrill of sustainable performance. It’s a fine line between tradition and innovation, nostalgia and moving on.

You can tell Ford has thought long and hard from the moment you get behind the wheel. The Capri EV is more than just a superficial homage; it is a purpose-built craft house EV that is a fully fledged machine in its own right. Its goal is to demonstrate that the soul of a car isn’t defined by its engine type or body style, but rather the experience it gives its users. Over the week I spent with it, I wanted to see if this car is just capitalising on a legendary name, or if it actually brings a new kind of excitement, usefulness and style. The question to be answered is not “Is this a Capri, pur sang?” but Is it a deserving successor that can stake an identity for itself in the crowded electric market? In all respects, it mostly does.

Quick Recap: The Reimagined Ford Capri EV

The Ford Capri EV reimagines a classic nameplate as a stylish, all-electric SUV-coupe, blending heritage with modern performance and everyday usability. It delivers engaging driving dynamics, advanced technology, and practical interior space, making it a compelling option for families, commuters, and enthusiasts.

• • Choose RWD for efficiency or 337bhp AWD for 062 mph in 5.4 seconds, and enjoy thrilling performance.

• • Go further with a remarkable long range of 374 miles in the extended-range RWD version.n

• • Take the road with confidence thanks to nimble handling, a low-mounted battery and a finely tuned suspension system that inspires confidence when cornering.

• • Enjoy seamless interaction with cutting-edge cabin technology, such as a 14.6-inch movable touchscreen and SYNC Move system.

• • Passengers and luggage are a doddle to cater for with five-seat comfort and a 570-litre boot.t

• • Drive with confidence through a suite of safety aides, like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.

• • Enjoy cost-effective ownership with low running costs, tax incentives, and a comprehensive battery warranty.

• • Make a statement with a unique, coupe-inspired design that honours the Capri’s heritage and the future.e

Behind the Wheel: My Driving Experience with the Ford Capri EV

As soon as you sit in the Capri EV’s driver seat, you realise this is not a car designed based on nostalgia. Rather, it’s a fully modernised crossover built for today’s roads. The high seating position gives drivers a panoramic view of traffic around them, a confidence booster right from the word go, especially when it’s a busy-city drive, so you can feel the tight space. Although it doesn’t have the low-slung, aggressive stance of the original, the unobstructed sightlines and well-thought-out, ergonomic control layout allow you to feel instantly connected to the car. It’s all where you expect it to be, so you can concentrate on the driving rather than hunting for controls.

Urban driving is where the Capri EV first reveals its refined nature. The immediate torque of the electric motor also makes it surprisingly nimble, leading to quick and silent starts from stoplights and easy merging into traffic. Driving through traffic jams is also less of a drag and more of a dicey game. One-pedal driving. The one-pedal driving, which uses regenerative braking to decelerate when you release the accelerator, is a feature to stands out during busy traffic. The whole experience is homogenised, which leaves daily commuting as an unexpectedly calming experience. Add in light, accurate steering and a surprisingly tight turning circle, even the trickiest multi-storey car parks become a doddle, thanks also to crystal clear cameras and responsive sensors.

As soon as you get out of the city and on the highway, the Capri EV becomes a peaceful and capable long-range tourer. On the highway, its superior aerodynamic shape and well-insulated compartment combine to reduce wind and tyre noise to a point where you need to lower your voice to talk or turn up the volume on the premium audio system. High-speed handling is superb, and the car feels stable and well-planted, which gives great driving confidence. The acceleration for overtaking is a quick, seamless burst of power, especially in the all-wheel-drive version. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems are finely honed and diminish the wear and tear on the driver during long drives and remind you that this Capri is a thing that takes city agility and distils it into long-distance calm.

• • The higher seating position provides a commanding view of the road for greater visibility.

• • Ready torque makes for nimble-minded and responsive pulling for easy driving in the city.

• • Regenerative braking on one pedal makes for a seamless and calming experience in stop-and-go traffic.

• • The quiet and comfortable interior keeps road and wind noise from disturbing your ride.

• • Sophisticated driver aids such as adaptive cruise control help prevent fatigue on long motorway runs.

Performance and Handling: A Modern Capri for the Enthusiast

Ford knew that for the Capri EV to live up to the name, it needed to be more than just a name on a modern-day body. It had to be fun to drive, and in this respect, they have more than lived up to that expectation. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) version, which sports a 337bhp dual-motor powertrain, is obviously the performance superstar. The response is instant, and it’s surprisingly gratifying, stamping you back into your seat with a quiet, fluid rush of acceleration. Rocketing away from rest or zipping past a slowcoach on a twisty backroad, both become heart-thumping experiences, proving that electric performance can be as thrilling as that of the previously internal combustion-driven vehicles, just a bit more polished.

But performance isn’t only about top speed. Handling is where the Capri EV really shines, a surprise for a crossover of this dimension. The suspension is incredibly well-balanced for both agility and comfort. This is mostly due to the battery pack being placed low in the car, which lowers the centre of gravity, making for a very balanced and planted car. When you guide it into a corner, it responds with confidence and precision. Body roll is remarkably small, even when you get a bit more spirited with the car, so you can carry speed through turns on winding roads without disturbing the car or your passengers. The steering is another signature feature, being nice and light for easy town manoeuvring but then firming up reassuringly at speed, giving great feedback and stability.

None of this dynamic capability is hard work in day-to-day use. The Capri EV is still a calm, polished vehicle for daily chores. The RWD model has a more modest, but still quick level of performance, yet that variant is primarily focused on maximising efficiency, which could also be considered an intelligent choice for range-prioritising drivers. Model aside, the car soaks up imperfections in the road with ease, and the effect is a tranquil cabin. It is this split personality that makes the Capri EV such a fantastic proposition; it delivers the razor-sharp, reactive character an enthusiast wants, without compromising on the compliance and stability required to make the family car comfortable. It’s a modern, sophisticated expression of performance that works perfectly with its electric core.”

• • AWD with 337bhp offers immediate, exciting acceleration for a lively drive.

• • A battery pack that’s mounted low down in the chassis also enhances balance and stability for assured handling.

• • Tuned correctly for its sportier cornering, the car should have very little body roll.

• • Sensitive steering enables light and precise manoeuvring around town and high-speed stability on the motorway.

• • The ride has the engaging dynamics and the everyday comfort of a real expert.

Interior and Practicality: Modern Comfort Meets Everyday Use

Sitting inside theFord Capri EV, you will find a cabin that combines futuristic technology with well-thought-out design with the user in mind. The cabin feels immediately roomy and tidy, giving a comfortable ride to the driver and passengers. Your eyes are immediately drawn to the prominent 14.6-inch adjustable touchscreen, which acts as the control centre of the SYNC Move infotainment system. This high-resolution screen is astonishingly quick and easy to use, allowing effortless navigation of media, vehicle settings and navigation. Its dual portrait and landscape modes are a nice touch, so you can choose how to view the interface. A soundbar extending the width of the dashboard is the latest elegant touch that is as much a visual as a sensorial element of refined luxury.

Aside from the amazing technology, the Capri EV is great at what it was designed to do: be a functional car for the average person’s day-to-day life. The seats, designed to comfortably seat five adults, provide ample head and legroom front to back. This makes it possible for everyone on board to stretch out and not feel cramped, even on long journeys. Even though the boot is practical, it boasts a staggering 570 litres of space that beats many rivals in the small crossover class. This vast space is more than enough for a week’s shopping, several large suitcases on a family holiday, or hefty sports gear. Still need more space? The back seats fold to create a huge, level load floor, so hauling that new sofa from the furniture store is surprisingly pain-free.

Ford’s designers have obviously had families in mind when they designed the interior of the Capri. The rear doors open wide, making it easy to install and reach child seats, and ISOFIX anchors (there are three on the rear bench) are placed strategically for secure mounting. Clever storage space can be found throughout the cabin, including deep door bins, a large central cubby, and small-item pockets. The materials feel solid and long-lasting, and the overall build quality is fantastic, leading you to believe that this is a car designed to be hammered on day in, day out by wheels-junkie parents. It is this ingenious blend of futuristic technology, astonishing spaciousness and family-oriented features that makes the interior of the Capri EV not just a good place to be, but an extremely useful and versatile place as well.

• • A 14.6-inch movable touchscreen provides an intuitive and responsive central control point.

• • The roomy interior is comfortable and spacious enough for five adults.

• • An expansive 570-litre boot offers practical and class-leading space for storage.

• • Life is easier with family-focused features such as ISOFIX anchor points and smart storage solutions.

• • Solid build quality and premium materials result in a robust yet refined cabin.

Technology and Safety: Smart, Connected, and Secure

Ford has equipped the new Capri EV with a comprehensive suite of technology designed to enhance safety, convenience, and entertainment without overwhelming the driver. At the core of its safety features is an array of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that work seamlessly in the background to provide an extra layer of protection. Features like automatic emergency braking with pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality are integrated with remarkable subtlety. During my time with the car, these systems proved their worth, offering gentle steering corrections and timely alerts that felt more like a helpful co-pilot than an intrusive backseat driver. This intelligent implementation ensures you remain confident and in control, whether navigating dense urban traffic or cruising on a long motorway journey.

Charging facilities and ability are just as up to date, so that’s another box ticked for anyone thinking about an EV. The Capri EV can be charged at home or at a public charging station efficiently. A 160-mile daily user should just leave it charging overnight with a 7kW home wallbox to start the next day with a full ‘tank.’” For extended travel, the vehicle’s support for 150kW DC fast-charging stations also helps. In practical terms, that means you can get about 175 miles of range in just about 25 minutes, just enough time for a coffee break. This feature “eliminates range anxiety and puts extended travel within reach as a realistic and worry-free experience,” said the automaker. All the necessary charging info is shown on one screen in the digital driver display, so you know the status of your range and charging at a glance.

The result is a connected and fun place to be, combining leading-edge form with intuitive function in the infotainment system. The “Moveable Squircle” dashboard soundbar is more than a visual centrepiece; It also produces immersive, high-fidelity sound for all passengers. SYNC Move, meanwhile, is available on the large central touchscreen and offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy phone integration. This fluid interface is there to make sure that a driver’s sense of direction, selection of tunes and way to communicate is never more than an arm’s length away. Ford has integrated that highly advanced technology into the driving experience so well that it simply feels like a natural part of what the vehicle is. It makes every trip better by making the Capri EV smarter, safer and more fun to live with.

• • A full suite of driver aids, such as automatic braking and adaptive cruise, makes it safer.

• • With a charging power of 150kW, this adds about 175 miles of range in around 25 minutes.

• • 7kW home charging is convenient, and a full charge can be done overnight.

• • A simple digital driver at-a-glance display for all essential vehicle and charge information at any time.

• • Part premium infotainment with an upmarket soundbar and easy-to-use controls makes for a connected cabin.

Running Costs and Ownership: An Intelligent Investment

The Ford Capri EV is not just a pretty design and fun drive: it makes a strong argument for budget-conscious buyers. The switch to electricity also offers huge money-saving benefits, particularly in running costs. By charging on private land, and in many cases eligible for cheap off-peak electricity rates, owners can slash their “refuelling” bill to a tiny fraction of what they would pay for petrol or diesel. That migration from the gas station to the home charging station changes the ownership experience, making daily commutes and school runs more economical than they have ever been. The advantage is even more significant for company car drivers in the UK with the Capri EV qualifying for a rock bottom Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rate, which is vastly cheaper than its traditionally-powered business class rivals.

In addition to fuel and taxes, the Capri EV is also expected to have lower maintenance costs over its life. The simplicity of electric powertrains, which have significantly fewer moving parts than an internal combustion engine, means no routine oil changes, exhaust system repairs, or other routine maintenance tasks. That’s good for your wallet, and it also means the vehicle spends less time in the shop, making it that much more convenient overall. Insurance ratings are expected to be similarly competitive to like-for-like electric SUVs and should avoid any large premiums that can sometimes be associated with high-performance vehicles. With its combination of low daily running costs and low maintenance, the Capri EV is a financial winner for the well-informed modern motorist.

Ford also gives long-term owners more peace of mind by offering a generous battery warranty, the most crucial component of the car, covering eight years or 100,000 miles. This is a ground-breaking promise of confidence and reassurance, as it safeguards the owners from any potential devaluation, and it keeps the vehicle as a trustworthy commodity for many years. The Capri’s distinctive position in the market as a classic nameplate with new EV drives and an eye-catching shape should also help in bolstering residual values. In a segment where accounting for depreciation is key, the Capri EV is likely to keep its value better than many of its more ordinary rivals, making it a safe and sensible bet from purchase to sale.

• • Charging at home is cheap, so the running costs are low, particularly if you have an off-peak electricity tariff.

• • Lower maintenance requirements because of fewer moving parts mean you can say goodbye to things like oil changes.

• • An extensive eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty ensures you are covered for the long term.

• • Generous tax benefits, including extremely low BiK rates, make substantial savings for company car users.

• • Good residual values expected, based on the iconic nameplate and its unique styling.

Ford Capri EV vs.The Rivals: How Does the Capri EV Compare?

The electric Ford Capri also competes in a crowded electric SUV-coupe market, where styling, performance and tech have to come together to stop would-be buyers in their tracks. Its main competitors are the Volkswagen ID.5, the Skoda Enyaq Coupé and of course the Tesla Model Y. The Capri immediately sets itself apart in a positive way when compared to the other Volkswagen Group vehicles. The ID.5 and Enyaq Coupé are certainly able and comfortable long-distance cruisers, but driving both can feel a little too cautious and predictable. In contrast, the Capri’s Ford heritage in suspension tuning affords it a crisper, more responsive feel that invites enthusiastic driving. Steering is more responsive, body roll is better controlled, and the immediate throttle response, particularly in the AWD model, imparts a thrill that some of its Teutonic cousins lack.

And the Tesla Model Y is still very dominant when it comes to sheer numbers and availability in the great Supercharger network. It is still a tough contender with jaw-dropping performance and industry-best efficiency. Yet the Ford Capri forges its own distinctive identity in terms of character and feel-good factor. The Capri badge has a lot of heritage and nostalgia behind it, which significantly influences the potential market share in the UK and Europe. This is not just any faceless electric crossover; it’s the return of an icon. That emotional connection is something the Capri has that the more clinical, all-too-ubiquitous Model Y just can’t match. It has a narrative and an element of theatre, which many buyers find tempting.

More info about driving dynamics and heritage then the Capri EV also impresses with its interior design and everyday functionality. It’s more special and user-friendly than a lot of its competitors. The huge, adjustable 14.6-inch touchscreen is more user-friendly and visually stunning than the ones in the ID.5 or Enyaq, and the built-in dashboard soundbar brings a touch of luxury. In addition, its family-oriented design with a 570-litre boot provides more practicality than some rivals, all without compromising on its coupe-like looks. The Ford Capri EV takes a well-rounded approach to balancing nostalgia, utility, and modern driving fun, successfully mixing fun driving dynamics, smart tech, and a storied name.

• • The driving dynamics are more involving with the VW ID.5 and Skoda Enyaq Coupé, feeling a little sharper and more agile.

• • The iconic Capri name gives heritage and emotional character that rivals such as the Tesla Model Y just simply don’t have.

• • State-of-the-art cabin technology, including a massive moveable touchscreen, provides an unparalleled user experience.

• • It’s versatile for a family with a practical cabin and spacious boot.

• • Its 374-mile long-range potential also makes it a strong contender for long-haul trips.

Who Should Buy the New Ford Capri?

The Ford Capri EV is an impressively adaptable car that plays well in both the day-to-day practicality and genuine excitement buckets. It’s this broad level of appeal that makes it suitable for a diverse range of drivers. Families will appreciate it, particularly. The interior is not just large enough for five adults to comfortably sit, it is also intelligently engineered to accommodate the needs of a household. And with a cavernous 570-litre boot, rear doors that open wide for easy access and easily reachable ISOFIX anchors for child seats, whether it’s tiding the weekly shop or packing for a summer holiday, this five-seater makes light work of it. It also has the usual advanced safety kit, including automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, so those looking for a safe and family-oriented EV should be eyeing the Capri EV as a compelling choice in the electric vehicle market.

For city dwellers and commuters, the Capri EV’s combination of efficiency and refinement redefines the everyday drive. The result is a college-looking gate with a satisfying, crisp and quiet impact that covers you from city noise and traffic chaos. The instant torque from the electric motor makes practising your right-of-way on busy streets and merging into traffic effortless, while the one-pedal driving regime compensates for the stop-and-go rhythm of city driving. Together with its responsive handling and small size, the Capri is at home in a busy car park as it is on a country road. In addition, it’s a financially savvy choice for anyone who wants to get the most out of their commute because it is low-cost to run, qualifies for tax credits and requires less maintenance.

The Capri EV is also quite attractive for driving enthusiasts and those who like to show off. Although it doesn’t have the raw mechanical character of the original, the all-wheel-drive model is exhilarating, with dynamic handling that invites you to push it. Its slender coupe-crossover shape is both unique and contemporary , ensuring that you are still turning heads for all of the right reasons. For everyone else, the Capri is an excellent place to start, with technology that is easy to use, a charging procedure that’s not complicated, and a range that is comforting. It takes the mystery out of the EV experience and has a fun and fashionable package. In the end, this is a car that balanced the practical, the thrilling, and the quirky so well that it should be on everyone’s list when it comes to buying an electric vehicle with character.

• • Spacious family cabin: Accommodates five adults comfortably and simplifies daily tasks with generous boot space and wide-opening doors.

• • Comprehensive safety features: Offers peace of mind to parents and all occupants with advanced driver-assistance systems.

• • Urban refinement: Whisper-quiet cabin, agile handling, and instant torque make city driving both easy and enjoyable.

• • Cost efficiency: Low running costs, eligibility for tax benefits, and reduced maintenance appeal to budget-conscious professionals.

• • Engaging performance: AWD option delivers dynamic driving for enthusiasts and those who appreciate spirited handling.

• • Distinctive style: Coupe-crossover looks and heritage cues attract those seeking individuality and standout design in an EV.

• • First-time EV readiness: Intuitive tech and seamless charging make the transition to electric motoring accessible and stress-free.

Why the New Ford Capri EV Matters in a Modern Era

The Ford Capri EV is more than the rebirth of a classic badge; it’s a well-considered and realised pairing of heritage and contemporary automotive design. It demonstrates that a classic brand can be updated for a new age without losing the essence that made it so iconic. It’s not able to mimic the raw, visceral experience of the original, but it’s able to capture that spirit from the sleek, coupe-like roofline to the sharply creased bodywork. On the road, the Capri EV holds its own stylishly and confidently, heads turning not only because of nostalgia but also because of the undeniable uniqueness of the design. This is a car that looks forward while it looks back in time.

Performance is the Capri EV’s real claim to being an adequate replacement. The immediate torque of the electric powertrain makes acceleration exhilarating and is also easy and controlled. The AWD version delivers exciting performance for the enthusiast, and the RWD version offers a more relaxed, efficient drive for the range prioritizers. This is matched with a responsive, low-mounted battery and well-damped suspension for precise handling. The result is a vehicle that feels planted and confident through corners, yet comfortable and composed enough for daily use. It strikes a perfect balance between fun and functional, showing that a single vehicle can excel at spirited drives on the weekend and tackling school runs day after day with grace.

The Ford Capri EV makes the most of its slot on the sporting spectrum by offering a rounded package. Among the images of practicality, safety and convenience, the RAV4 features a spacious interior, ample cargo space and family-friendly features to be one of the most versatile SUVs. State-of-the-art technology, such as the retractable SYNC touchscreen and an extensive array of driver assistance features, makes every trip more comfortable and relaxing. Add to those qualities the low cost of operation and maintenance, and favourable tax concessions, and the Capri EV becomes an electric crossover that is as sensible as it is fun to drive. It is more than just an homage to a legendary nameplate; it is a new electric vehicle that embodies personality, capability, and efficiency like no other.

• • Combines classic heritage with contemporary stylish EV design

• • Strikes the perfect balance between exhilarating and practical driving for everyday use

• • Features a flexible, family-friendly cabin with cutting-edge, intuitive technology inside and out

• • Provides an economically wise ownership experience with low running costs and less maintenance

• • It differentiates in the EV world by delivering a distinctive mix of personality, capability and efficiency

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