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When Ford announced the 2026 Capri, the automotive press and enthusiasts alike were quick to point out the name’s nostalgic weight. The original two‑door coupe, a 1970s icon, was a modest sports car, not a luxury machine. The new model, however, is a fully electric SUV that borrows the Volkswagen ID4 platform and re‑imagines the Capri as a premium crossover. With a price tag of £49,000, the vehicle promises a blend of heritage styling, modern technology, and respectable range, raising the question: does the name live up to the expectations of today’s buyers?
Design and Heritage
Ford has taken a cautious approach to the Capri’s exterior. The front fascia features the familiar Capri badge, indented into the grille, and a sloping roofline that echoes the original coupe’s silhouette. The design team has also incorporated a distinctive rear light strip that wraps around the tail, a nod to the classic model’s signature “C” shape. While the overall shape feels more like a contemporary SUV than a sports coupe, the subtle references to the past give the car a sense of continuity. The use of a single‑point LED daytime running light and a subtle chrome accent on the side mirrors keeps the look clean and modern.
Powertrain and Range
The Capri is powered by a single‑motor, rear‑wheel‑drive layout that delivers 77 kW of power. Despite its modest output, the vehicle achieves an impressive range of up to 380 miles on a full charge, thanks to a 77 kWh battery pack and an aerodynamic body. Ford claims the range outperforms the Volkswagen ID4 and the VW Golf SportWagen, largely due to the Capri’s lower drag coefficient and efficient powertrain. The car also offers a heat‑pump system, but it is an optional extra that adds roughly £1,000 to the price, a decision that has drawn criticism from some reviewers who expected it as standard on a premium‑priced EV.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Capri feels more like a Volkswagen than a Ford. The dashboard layout mirrors the ID4’s layout, with a 15‑inch touchscreen that retracts into the centre console when not in use. The steering wheel features a touch‑sensitive click wheel for media and climate controls, though some users find the interface a bit clunky compared to physical buttons. The cabin is fitted with soft‑touch leather upholstery, a two‑tone colour scheme, and ambient lighting that can be customised through the Ford Connect app. Premium trims offer a Bang & Olivesson sound system, while the base model comes with a standard audio package. Storage is generous, with a split‑folding rear seat and a large boot that holds a spare tyre, a compression kit, and a 12‑volt socket.
Driving Experience and Practicality
On the road, the Capri behaves like a typical electric SUV. The single‑motor setup provides a smooth, quiet ride, and the rear‑wheel‑drive layout gives the car a sporty feel. The vehicle offers three drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—though the Sport mode mainly sharpens the throttle response rather than tightening the steering. The suspension is a standard MacPherson strut front and a multi‑link rear, lacking adaptive dampers that many competitors include at this price point. Despite this, the car handles well over rough roads, and the high roofline offers decent headroom for taller occupants. The boot space is adequate for everyday use, and the rear seats fold flat to create a versatile cargo area.
Verdict and Market Position
Ford’s decision to name the vehicle Capri rather than a more descriptive title like Explorer Sport has sparked debate. While the name carries brand heritage, it also creates confusion, as the new Capri bears little resemblance to the original coupe. The car’s price, features, and performance place it squarely in the premium electric SUV segment, competing with the VW ID4, the Audi Q4 e‑Tron, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5. For buyers who value a blend of heritage and modern EV technology, the Capri offers an attractive package. However, the optional heat‑pump and the lack of adaptive suspension may deter those seeking a fully premium experience.
In the end, the 2026 Ford Capri is a bold attempt to revive a classic name in a new era. It delivers a respectable range, a well‑equipped interior, and a design that pays homage to its past while embracing contemporary EV standards. The price is steep for a single‑motor SUV, but the added value of the brand name and the vehicle’s practicality make it a contender for buyers looking for a premium electric crossover. Whether the Capri will become a staple in Ford’s lineup remains to be seen, but it certainly has sparked conversation and curiosity among the automotive community.