Ford has taken the daring decision to relaunch the iconic nameplates after 40 years. But not all fans will be happy to see it used for a £40k+ electric SUV baring little resemblance to the original.
The US car giant has taken the daring decision to relaunch one of its greatest nameplates after a near 40-year hiatus and it is sure to ruffle a few feathers.
The build up to the vehicle's release has centred around the statement: 'The legend is back!' - a phrase used by Eric Cantona in a podcast interview with Gary Lineker this month as it is revealed the former Manchester United player's recent spate of viral stunts featuring a goat were orchestrated by Ford to promote Capri's renaissance.
It adds: 'The new all-electric Capri is the car the iconic sports coupe was destined to become. No other family EV has heritage like this.' Does the new Ford Capri electric SUV really mirror the two-door sports coupes of old that share its name? We're not entirely convinced... 'We're excited that the new all-electric Capri is ready to bring some swagger to the world of EVs and introduce a whole new generation of drivers to the spirit of a cult classic.'
The former's drivetrain is made up of a 77kWh lithium-ion battery sending energy to a single 282bhp electric motor at the rear axle. Ford's designers say the SUV's svelte shape has helped it to achieve a greater battery range. The furthest it can go on a full charge is up to 389 miles. This is based on the £48,075 RWD Extended Range model
Commenting on its unveiling today, COO of the 'Ford Model e' electric division, Marin Gjaja, said: 'If you want the perfect example of how Model e is transforming the Ford business in Europe, look no further than our new all-electric Ford Capri. Does it really pay homage to Ford Capris of the past? Ask a bunch of Ford fanatics what their favourite model is from the brand's glittering history and plenty will name the Capri.
The two-door coupe instantly became a hit in the early seventies, with the blue-oval brand selling a staggering 400,000 units in the first 24 months. The Capri gained popularity across Europe as one of the most affordable and popular sports cars, earning the moniker of 'the working man's Porsche'. People have already been voicing their opinions about the new Capri on Ford UK's official Instagram account.
more videos Famous Fords: This pair of Carpis that featured on TV screens in hit TV show 'The Professionals' sold last year for £186,000 as a twin auction lot Ford's designers revealed sketches of the car and how it was penned to replicate the original two-door coupe. There's still only very subtle links between the two
The black blade panel spanning the rear - flanked at each end by the brake light clusters - is also a nod back to sporty RS variants of the past. But Ford effectively used the French Manchester United legend to drum up a social media frenzy ahead of the EV's unveiling. Appearing on 'The Rest is Football' podcast - hosted by Gary Lineker alongside Alan Shearer and Micah Richards - on 4 July, Cantona was quizzed about the recent goat appearances. In his response, Eric said: 'When a goat follows his hero in his car it's because the ruler on the race track returns.' After removing his headphones to leave the podcast show, Cantona signed off with: 'The legend is back,' in a nod to the Capri's relaunch.
Read More New cars are 400kg heavier than seven years ago thanks to this vehicle type... The introduction of stricter rules around crash protection, mandated safety features and modern luxuries in today's cars means there's little point comparing old with new - especially across such a significant gulf in time.The lightest measures in at 2,098kg, whereas the heaviest is 2,190kg.
In terms of the wealth of technological safety kit the Capri boasts, the latest systems include Assisted Lane Change and Clear Exit Warning. Capri EV is the 'ultimate getaway car' No, Ford isn't suggesting you rob a bank in its reborn Capri - but it does recommend it for weekend trips and longer holidays.
In terms of boot capacity, the Capri offers around the same as a BMW 5 Series Touring estate, which is pretty impressive. However, this also means it has overlooked heritage by carrying no original Capri cabin features over, such as classic oval dials and a few retro switches. Ford says the Capri has a 'luxurious interior' that - like most new models being unveiled right now - focuses on a 'minimalist and digital feel'
As standard, all Capris have heated front seats and steering wheel. The driver also gets a choice of massage settings and the ability to pre-set their ideal seat position that electronically adjusts when you get in.
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