It was a sleek 2+2 coupe in the 1970s and ‘80s before being reborn as a convertible sports car for the 1990s.
Now reports out of the UK suggest the Ford Capri is set to make a comeback as a compact pure-electric SUV sitting on the same VW-derived platform as the just-revealed Explorer SUV.
Ford has confirmed a second crossover will sit on the VW MEB chassis, and with a projected reveal in early 2024, the new-generation Capri is lining up as the likely candidate.
In a recent interview with Autocar the Blue Oval’s Chief European Designer, Amko Leenarts reinforced the importance of applying the brand’s historic nameplates to its current and upcoming EVs.
The Mustang Mach-E is a prime example, with the Explorer and fast-approaching Puma EV also extending long-established Ford model lines.
Set to join Ford’s ‘Adventurous Spirit’ EV range, Capri production is anticipated to align with the Explorer in the company’s recently upgraded Cologne plant in western Germany.
Like the Explorer, the rear-wheel drive Capri is rumoured to boast a 500km range with 0-100km/h acceleration in around six seconds.
Expected battery choice will be between 52kWh and 77kWh packs with maximum charging speeds around 170kW – enough to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in 25 minutes.
The original Capri coupe ‘the European pony car’ was marketed as a Ford in Europe, the UK and other export markets over three generations from 1969 to 1986. It was sold under the Mercury brand in North America.
From the late 1980s to the mid-’90s a Ford Australia-developed FWD 2+2 convertible sports car also wore the Capri nameplate, with the car again marketed in North America under the Mercury banner.
Keyword: Ford's Capri comeback! New electric SUV to challenge Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and MG ZS EV - reports