There’s a certain magic to the name 'Capri' for those of us who remember the original – that rakish coupe that turned heads in the 1970s and 80s, a proper working man’s GT with a whiff of rebellion. Now, Ford has dusted off the badge and plonked it on the back of a thoroughly modern, all-electric coupe-SUV. The Capri is not just a nod to nostalgia, but a bold stride into the future. But does it have the soul to match the badge, or is it just another SUV in a crowded field?

First Impressions

The new Capri is a big beast, and you’ll spot it a mile off. The Premium trim, sitting atop the range, gets 20-inch alloys, a panoramic glass roof, and Matrix LED headlamps that cut through the murk of a Yorkshire morning like a hot knife through butter. There’s a sense of occasion as you approach – the LED light bar that stretches across the tailgate, the muscular haunches, and that unmistakable coupe silhouette all hint at something a bit special.

Slip inside and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s as plush as anything Ford’s ever built. The 14.6-inch SYNC Move touchscreen dominates the dash, floating above a swathe of recycled materials and soft-touch trim. The driver’s seat offers 12-way power adjustment, heating, and a massage function – a godsend after a long day at the wheel. Ambient lighting and a 10-speaker B&O sound system round out the sense of luxury, while the panoramic roof floods the cabin with light, even on the dullest of days.

Performance and Handling

Under the skin, the Capri Premium AWD uses Ford’s latest electric powertrain, based on the Volkswagen MEB platform. With 340PS and a whopping 679Nm of torque, it’ll sprint from 0-62mph in just 5.3 seconds – brisk enough to embarrass many a hot hatch at the lights. The all-wheel-drive system ensures there’s no drama, even on the slipperiest of roads.

But this isn’t a sports car in the old Capri mould. The ride, thanks to Ford’s adaptive suspension, is impressively supple, soaking up potholes and ridges with aplomb. There’s a sense of heft – at over two tonnes, the Capri is no lightweight – but it’s well controlled, and there’s enough feedback through the steering to encourage a brisk pace on a twisty B-road. The selectable drive modes let you tailor the experience, but even in Sport, the Capri remains composed rather than raucous.

Range, Charging, and Practicality

Ford claims a WLTP range of up to 346 miles for the AWD model, though real-world figures in mixed Yorkshire driving are closer to 260-280 miles, especially if you drive briskly and indulge in the full suite of heated seats, massage functions, and B&O audio.

Fast charging is a highlight – the Capri’s 800V architecture allows a 10-80% top-up in just 26 minutes on a suitable charger, perfect for a quick break at a motorway services.

Boot space is a generous 572 litres, making the Capri one of the most practical EVs in its class. The powered tailgate and flat load floor make loading up for a weekend away a doddle. Rear seat space is decent, though the sloping roofline does eat into headroom for taller passengers.

Technology and Safety

The Capri Premium is bristling with tech. The SYNC Move system is intuitive, with Google built-in, voice navigation, and seamless smartphone integration. There’s an augmented reality head-up display, projecting directions onto the windscreen – a proper boon when navigating unfamiliar lanes in the dark.

Safety is top-notch, with Ford’s Co-Pilot suite offering adaptive cruise, lane keeping, intersection assist, and more. The Capri has gained a five-star Euro NCAP rating.

Verdict

So, does the Capri live up to its iconic name? In many ways, yes. It’s a thoroughly modern, well-equipped, and rapid family car that happens to wear a famous badge. The driving experience is more about comfort and refinement than outright thrills, but there’s enough poke and poise to put a smile on your face when the mood takes you.

It’s not cheap – at just over £60,000 as tested, it’s a world away from the affordable Capris of old. But as a statement of intent from Ford, there’s much to like. The Capri is back, and while it may not be the rebel it once was, it’s certainly ready for the future. Yorkshire’s roads have a new electric contender, and it wears its heritage with pride.

Fast Facts
Ford Capri Premium AWD
Price £56,185 (£60,335 as tested)
Max Power 340PS
Torque 679Nm
0-62mph in 5.3 seconds
Overall combined range 346 miles
10-80% charge in 26 minutes

Options Fitted
Metallic paint - £800
21-inch alloy wheels - £1,000
Driver assistance pack - £1,300
Heat pump - £1,050