The automotive world is no stranger to controversy, and Ford’s latest offering, the electric Ford Capri, has found itself in the eye of the storm.
Much like Jaguar’s rebranding debacle in late 2024, the Capri’s launch has been met with a chorus of skepticism, mostly centered around its departure from the beloved 1970s sports coupe lineage.
But is the criticism deserved, or is it just a tempest in a teapot?
Let’s delve into the heart of this automotive enigma.
First off, let’s address the elephant in the room.
The name “Capri” conjures images of a sleek, sporty two-door—a design beloved by enthusiasts and immortalized by its spirited presence on the roads from 1968 to 1986.
Yet, Ford’s latest creation is anything but a direct descendant.
Instead, this iteration is a chunky SUV, much to the chagrin of purists.
However, before you dismiss it outright, there’s more to this story than meets the eye.
Ford has cleverly maneuvered the current trend of coupe SUVs, which aim to marry the practicality of an SUV with a dash of sportiness.
The electric Capri might not share much DNA with its namesake, but it’s certainly a bold attempt to redefine expectations.
With dimensions that overshadow the Ford Explorer by nearly 17cm, this isn’t just a facelifted Volkswagen ID.5.
Ford promises a refined driving experience, thanks to substantial drivetrain tuning and a bespoke infotainment system.
The Capri’s interior, although a sea of black regardless of trim level, offers surprising comfort and technology.
The Select version boasts heated seats and wireless phone charging, while the Premium trim ups the ante with a massage function for the driver’s seat and a high-end B&O sound system.
A panoramic sunroof and a nifty adjustable infotainment screen add to the cabin’s appeal, making it a pleasant place for both short commutes and long hauls.
Performance-wise, the Capri is no slouch, though it won’t be challenging Tesla’s speed demons anytime soon.
The all-wheel-drive version sprints from 0-62mph in a respectable 5.3 seconds, a far cry from the original Capri’s handling quirks that required TV cops to drive a little more carefully during high-speed chases.
Nevertheless, it’s a reminder that this isn’t a sports SUV, but rather a sporty-looking family car that comfortably navigates the daily grind.
Range anxiety, a common concern with electric vehicles, is somewhat alleviated with the Capri’s offerings.
With a WLTP range of up to 390 miles on the 77kWh battery, it promises a decent driving distance, though real-world conditions might trim that down.
Charging speeds keep pace with competitors, ensuring that long road trips remain a viable option.
However, the Capri’s Achilles’ heel might just be its price tag.
Starting at £42,075 ($53,000) for the base model, it doesn’t fit snugly within Ford’s traditional image of affordable quality.
It faces stiff competition from not only European stalwarts like Volkswagen and Skoda but also emerging Chinese brands keen on capturing the European market.
In conclusion, the electric Ford Capri is a conundrum wrapped in a mystery, presented as an SUV.
It challenges preconceived notions of what a “Capri” should be and attempts to carve a niche in a crowded market.
Whether it can transcend the initial backlash and find a loyal customer base remains to be seen.
For now, it stands as a testament to Ford’s willingness to push boundaries, even if the nameplate’s legacy casts a long shadow.
