Ford Capri Electric Fastback Tested: Spacious, Long-Range EV Wins Over Critics
Ford has revived the iconic Capri nameplate as a fully electric fastback, delivering a surprisingly spacious family car with long-range options and a driving experience that quietly impresses. Despite initial controversy over borrowing the heritage name, the new model focuses on practicality and modern electric performance.
Design and Performance Specifications
The new Capri features a fastback profile with a jacked-up saloon stance and subtle sporty cues. It offers two battery options: a 52kWh version with 170bhp and a 240-mile range, and a 77kWh Extended Range model capable of up to 385 miles. Pricing starts comfortably below £40,000, rising into the £50,000s depending on specification, with all variants coming well-equipped.
Interior Space and Driving Dynamics
Despite its sporty pretensions, the Capri surprises with excellent interior space, feeling substantial on the road. The driving experience is composed, with the car hiding its weight well, offering a neat ride, secure grip, and minimal body roll. While not truly sporty, Ford has tuned the handling to be enjoyable for country lane cruising.
The dashboard is shared with the Ford Explorer but features sporty seats, nicer materials, and an 1980s-inspired steering wheel detail. Most controls are integrated into a large central infotainment screen, which slides back to reveal hidden storage when unlocked, though the mechanism is noted to judder uncomfortably.
Practicality and Final Verdict
The interior is practical and comfortable, despite touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons that may irk some drivers. The boot offers an enormous 567 litres for a fastback, compensating for the lack of storage under the bonnet. The car stands as a compelling option in its segment, with prejudices over its name potentially causing buyers to miss out on a genuinely good vehicle.
This review is based on testing conducted on UK roads, highlighting the Capri's strengths as a family-oriented electric vehicle that transcends its controversial heritage.
