Ford Capri Reborn As A Coupe Version Of Euro Explorer EV

Ford is at it again, dipping into its archive of classic badges to help generate a buzz around a new EV. This time it’s the Capri name that’s been resurrected for an electric coupe-SUV based on Europe’s new compact Explorer.

Both cars use the same VW MEB platform found under EVs like the ID.4 and ID.5 and share a 2,770 mm (109 inch) wheelbase. But whereas the boxy Explorer appeals to families looking for practicality, the sportier Capri sacrifices some space with a sloping fastback tail.

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VW did something similar to turn the ID.4 into the ID.5, but Ford’s attempt to coupe-ify the Explorer didn’t stop with a sloping rear hatch. To justify the Capri badge Ford’s design team threw in some design cues inspired by the 1969-86 Capri coupe, which was Ford’s attempt to replicate the success of the Mustang for a European audience.

Spot the vintage details

So there’s a black band across the nose mimicking the look of the original’s grille, and the lights at each corner have DRLs arranged in pairs to evoke the Mk1 Capri’s quad-headlight setup. Other retro-inspired details include the subtle fender peaks and oval rear side window, a flicked-up tail that tips a hat to the RS3100’s ducktail spoiler and rear DRLs that evoke memories of the Mk3 Capri’s taillights.

But even if potential buyers don’t remember the Capri – and there’s a good chance they won’t, seeing as it was axed almost 40 years ago – the design still works. It kind of looks like a Polestar 2 after two rounds of P90X and some leg-lengthening surgery.

Inside, it’s mostly carried over from the Explorer, down to the 14.6-inch portrait infotainment screen and secret, lockable stash hole behind it. But there is one fun retro detail: the bottom spoke of the steering wheel riffs on the look of classic sports steering wheels with their drilled metal spokes, like the one fitted to some of the Capri RS2600 homologation specials.

VW hardware delivers up to 335 hp

But the only similarity between the new Capri and old under the skin is that the base version of the SUV is rear-wheel drive. Thankfully it doesn’t have a live rear axle, instead getting a modern multi-link setup, and even the entry-level single-motor Capri’s 282 hp (286 PS / 210 kW) output is almost double what the most powerful naturally-aspirated production V6 Capri could deliver. None of the vintage coupes could touch this one’s 6.4-second zero to 62 mph (100 kmh) time, either.

Drivers looking for even more muscle, or just all-wheel-drive security, have the option of upgrading to the 335 hp (340 PS / 250 kW) dual-motor Capri, though its 5.3-second 0-62 mph capability means giving up on some driving range miles. The bi-motor car gets a 79 kWh battery instead of the base version’s 77 kWh pack, but its curb weight is up, too, from 2,098 kg (4,625 lbs) to 2,174 kg (4,793 lbs) in its lightest form.

Ford says you’ll get up to 390 miles (627 km) out of a 282 hp model but only 368 miles (592 km) from the 335 hp, twin-motor EV. The dually does charge slightly faster because it can accept 185 kW instead of the base model’s 135 kW, though two minutes (10- 80 percent in 26 versus 28 minutes) is hardly a deal breaker.

Premium trim adds equipment, costs range

All Capris come with dual-zone climate; heated, 12-way massage seats; heated and folding door door mirrors that project an image of a Capri onto the ground; keyless entry and start; wireless phone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Going Premium adds a 10-speaker B&O sound system with subwoofer, ambient interior lighting, Matrix LED lights, and a hands-free rear hatch, but the extra weight and rolling resistance that comes with it costs up to 20 miles (32 km) of range.

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Premium models also get an upgrade from 19- to 20-inch wheels, though both versions can upgrade to 21s and improve on the standard safety features with a driver assist pack that includes a head-up display, active park assist, assisted lane change, and a 360-degree camera.

Ford hasn’t announced prices yet but they’re likely to be very close to the Explorer’s. That starts at £45,875 ($58,750) in the UK for a single-motor 282 hp SUV, jumps to £49,975 ($64,000) for the same thing in Premium trim, and £53,975 ($69,100) for the AWD, which comes only in Premium guise.

What does this mean for Mach-E?

As far as we know Ford has no plans to export the Capri to North America from its Cologne, Germany, plant. The Capri coupe the new SUV wants us to believe it carries on from was actually sold in the US between 1970 and 1978, but the latest EV tax credit rules mean it doesn’t make sense for Ford to import the modern version or the Explorer.

Ford’s US arm also already has the Mustang Mach-E, of course, but then so does Europe. The Stang has a slightly longer wheelbase and a powerful GT range-topper the Capri lacks, but the two cars do pretty much the same thing and for similar money. We asked Ford of Europe if it will drop the Mach-E but have yet to hear back. It seems like the only logical move.

What’s your take on the new Capri? Should Ford have pushed the retro angle harder or not bothered with the Capri schtick at all? And GT-excepted, would you rather have one of these or a Mustang Mach-E? Drop a comment below and let us know.