The New Ford Capri EV: A Worthy Revival or Insult to the Original?

Few cars have captured the spirit of everyday performance and style quite like the Ford Capri. First introduced in 1969, the Capri offered a European alternative to the Mustang, making sports coupe thrills more accessible. It became a pop culture staple throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s, remembered fondly by enthusiasts for its sleek design, spirited drive and attainable price point.

Now, Ford has announced the Capri’s return after decades of dormancy — not as a gas-powered sports car but as an all-electric crossover. The move has sparked passionate debate. Is the new Capri a thoughtful nod to the original or a marketing ploy that disrespects its roots? The answer might not be so simple in a world increasingly driven by electric vehicle (EV) innovation.

The original Ford Capri — also famously known as “the car you always promised yourself” — carved a lasting niche in automotive history. Designed to bring the American muscle car spirit to European roads, the Capri combined sleek styling with various performance options that suited

diverse budgets. The Capri offered something for almost all driving types, from the nimble 1.3-liter base models to the V6 variants.

Its long hood, sharp coup silhouette and rear-wheel-drive dynamics gave it a sporty character that resonated with a generation hungry for affordable thrills. Across its three major iterations, the Capri evolved without losing its fundamental appeal — stylish performance wrapped in an accessible package.

The Capri became a cultural symbol in film, television and motorsport. For many enthusiasts, it was more than just transportation. It was an aspiration realized on four wheels.

The Modern EV Landscape

To understand Ford’s controversial decision to electrify the Capri, it’s important to consider the broader automotive landscape. The shift toward EVs has accelerated dramatically in recent years, fueled by consumer demand, government regulations and environmental urgency.

The idea of electric vehicles goes back as far as the 1800s, but the push for EVs as we know them now can be traced back to General Motors’ release of the EV1 in 1997 — an experiment in mass-produced EVs and one of the first electric cars to be taken seriously since the 1920s. This vehicle, and the documentary “Who Killed the Electric Car?” about its demise, fueled interest in EVs for the decades to come. Today, legacy automakers like Ford face mounting pressure to modernize iconic brands for a carbon-conscious future.

Some see EVs as a necessary evolution of the classics rather than a betrayal. Reviving the Capri name for a sleek electric crossover may be Ford’s attempt to merge past emotional resonance with the demands of a new era. However, not everyone is convinced.

Meet the New Ford Capri EV

At first glance, the new Ford Capri EV may be almost unrecognizable to those who worshiped the original. The new Capri is a compact crossover

rather than a sleek sports coupe, built on the Volkswagen MEB platform shared with the Ford Explorer EV. The bold front, aerodynamic lines and coupe-like roof give it a sporty aesthetic, but the resemblance stops there for many purists.

The Capri comes in rear- or all-wheel drive configurations, with battery ranges estimated at around 385 miles, depending on the model. It offers modern features like a 15-inch touch screen, autonomous driving assists and rapid charging capabilities that reflect Ford’s intention to compete seriously in the EV market.

However, despite its cutting-edge tech, the connection to the original Capri feels tenuous to some. Where the classic model offered lightweight agility and affordable excitement, the new Capri leans into practicality and electric performance. Whether that evolution honors the Capri name or waters it down remains a heated debate.

Divided Loyalties Among Fans

The new Capri has triggered fierce reactions across the automotive community. Detractors argue that Ford’s use of the Capri name on a family-friendly EV borders on sacrilege. Commentators didn’t hold back, calling the new model out for insulting one of the most beloved coupes of the last century. Chief criticisms center on the new Capri’s SUV-like proportions, front-wheel drive bias and lack of true sports car DNA.

However, not all reactions have been negative. Some voices suggest that bringing the Capri name into the EV age could introduce it to a new generation. From this perspective, the move isn’t about copying the past — it’s about reinterpreting it to meet contemporary demands for sustainability and daily practicality.

Ultimately, much of the controversy comes down to expectation and execution. Can a crossover ever truly capture the spirit of a classic coupe?

Capri Diem

Ford’s decision to resurrect the Capri name has sparked nostalgia and outrage. The new EV may succeed as a modern, capable EV. However, whether it deserves to wear the Capri badge remains unresolved. For many, the heart of the original was about aspiration and spirit.

Jack Shaw brings extensive expertise in automotive journalism, combining a profound understanding of vehicle maintenance and automotive technology with a genuine passion for the industry. As the automotive editor at Modded and a contributing writer for top publications like MOTOR, FleetMaintenance and Car Mechanics Magazine, he provides insightful analysis on the latest developments facing technicians and manufacturers.