Top 10 Reasons to Buy the Ford Capri in Australia: A Stylish Electric SUV to Rival Tesla Model Y
By What Car? Team | Published April 18, 2025
The Ford Capri has returned—not as the iconic petrol-powered coupe of the 1970s, but as a bold, fully electric coupe-styled SUV ready to take on Australia’s competitive EV market. Priced from approximately AUD 70,000 (converted from £37,000 UK starting price) to $90,000 for top-spec models, it goes head-to-head with the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and VW ID.5. Built on a shared platform with the Ford Explorer and VW Group EVs (like the Audi Q4 e-tron), the Capri blends sporty aesthetics with family-friendly practicality. But is it the right electric SUV for Aussie drivers? After an in-depth review, we’ve outlined the top 10 reasons why the Ford Capri deserves your attention in 2025. From its cavernous boot to thrilling performance, here’s why it could be your next EV.


Ford Capri Specs at a Glance
- Price: ~$70,000–$90,000 AUD (estimated)
- Battery: 55 kWh, 77 kWh, or 79 kWh
- Range: Up to 390 miles (627 km, WLTP)
- Power: 168–335 hp
- 0-62 mph: 5.3–8.7 seconds
- Charging: 135–185 kW DC
- Safety: 5-star Euro NCAP
- Boot Capacity: Fits 9 carry-on suitcases
- Warranty: 3 years/60,000 km
1. Unmatched Boot Space for Aussie Lifestyles
The Ford Capri’s boot is a game-changer, offering massive capacity that fits nine carry-on suitcases below the parcel shelf, surpassing the Kia EV6 and Cupra Tavascan, which manage only seven. Measuring over a meter deep, the load bay is ideal for family road trips from Sydney to the Blue Mountains or camping adventures in Tasmania. Practical features include:
- Height-adjustable boot floor to minimize loading lip.
- Side hooks and large storage compartments for securing groceries or gear.
- A removable bin and underfloor storage for charging cables.
- 60/40 split-folding rear seats with a ski hatch for longer items like surfboards. While it lacks a front boot (unlike the Tesla Model Y), the Capri’s rear storage makes it a top pick for Aussies needing space for weekend getaways or daily errands.
2. Long Range for Cross-Country Drives
The Capri’s 77 kWh battery (rear-wheel drive) delivers an official WLTP range of 390 miles (627 km), rivaling the Tesla Model Y Long Range. In real-world testing on a cold UK winter day, it achieved 293 miles (471 km), outperforming the Kia EV6 GT Line and Cupra Tavascan V1. In Australia’s warmer climate—think coastal drives along the Great Ocean Road or outback runs from Adelaide to Alice Springs—you could see closer to 500-550 km. The 79 kWh all-wheel-drive model offers slightly less range (due to added weight), while the entry-level 55 kWh battery provides 243 miles (390 km), suited for urban commutes in Melbourne or Brisbane.
3. Thrilling Performance Options for Every Driver
The Capri offers three powertrains to suit different Aussie driving styles:
- Entry-level (55 kWh, 168 hp): 0-62 mph in 8.7 seconds, ideal for relaxed city driving in Perth or Canberra.
- Single-motor extended range (77 kWh, 282 hp): 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, faster than the VW ID.5 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 base models.
- All-wheel drive (79 kWh, 335 hp): 0-62 mph in 5.3 seconds, outpacing the VW ID.5 GTX and matching sportier EVs. The top-spec model’s acceleration delivers an adrenaline rush for enthusiasts tackling winding roads like the Black Spur Drive in Victoria. Even the base model offers ample power for merging onto the M1 or overtaking on country highways, making the Capri versatile for urban and rural Australia.
4. Premium Interior with Exceptional Storage
The Capri’s interior exudes a bright, classy vibe, with higher build quality than the VW ID.5 and a more appealing design than the Tesla Model Y’s minimalist cabin. While it uses some scratchy plastics, it doesn’t feel cheap, falling just shy of the Kia EV6’s top-tier materials. Its standout feature is front storage galore:


- A hidden compartment under the adjustable 14.6-inch touchscreen for wallets or sunglasses.
- A smartphone tray with wireless charging.
- Two cup holders for coffee runs in Sydney’s CBD.
- Large door bins for water bottles or kids’ toys.
- A cavernous center console cubby with removable organizers, perfect for stashing snacks or tech gadgets. This storage abundance makes the Capri a practical companion for busy Aussie families, whether you’re dropping kids at school or heading to Bondi Beach.
5. Cutting-Edge Infotainment with a Twist
The 14.6-inch portrait touchscreen is the Capri’s tech centerpiece, featuring Ford’s Sync Move system. Its unique 30-degree tilt adjusts to reduce glare from Australia’s harsh sunlight, crucial for clear visibility on sunny Queensland roads. Key features include:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard for seamless smartphone integration.
- Sharp graphics and a simple menu layout, though swiping between screens isn’t as slick as the Tesla Model Y’s.
- Voice commands for hands-free control, though reliability varies. The lack of physical climate controls (unlike the Audi Q4 e-tron) can be distracting, and smaller on-screen icons require precision when driving. Still, the adjustable screen and robust connectivity make it a tech-savvy choice for Aussie EV buyers.
6. Generous Standard Equipment for Value
Even the base Capri Select trim (~ AUD 70,000) is loaded with premium features, offering better value than the entry-level Tesla Model Y or Kia EV6. Standard kit includes:
- Heated front seats for chilly Tasmanian mornings.
- Adaptive cruise control for stress-free highway drives on the Hume.
- Dual-zone climate control to keep everyone comfortable. The Premium trim adds 20-inch alloy wheels, matrix LED headlights, an electric tailgate, and a panoramic sunroof, elevating the Capri’s appeal for buyers in upscale suburbs like Toorak or Mosman. A heat pump (optional extra) boosts efficiency in cooler climates, a plus for Victoria or the ACT.
7. Five-Star Safety for Peace of Mind
The Capri earned a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, ensuring top-tier protection for Australian families. Its safety suite includes:
- Adaptive cruise control with lane-centering for long drives on the Stuart Highway.
- Lane-keep assist to prevent drifting on winding coastal roads.
- Automatic emergency braking for busy urban streets in Brisbane.
- A voice command system (though inconsistent) to minimize distractions. While rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 also score five stars, the Capri’s robust safety credentials make it a trustworthy choice for school runs or Outback adventures. Its solid build, backed by Ford’s mid-table reliability ranking, adds confidence.
8. Exceptional Efficiency to Save on Costs
The Capri’s 3.8 miles per kWh efficiency in cold-weather testing outperformed the Kia EV6 GT Line and Cupra Tavascan V1, promising even better results in Australia’s milder climate. For example, a commute from Melbourne’s CBD to Geelong could cost less than $5 in electricity, compared to $15-20 for a petrol SUV. This efficiency, combined with Australia’s growing renewable energy grid, makes the Capri a cost-effective option for eco-conscious drivers facing rising energy prices.
9. Fast Charging for Australia’s Growing Network
The all-wheel-drive Capri supports 185 kW DC fast charging, achieving a 10-80% charge in 25-30 minutes, on par with the VW ID.5. Rear-wheel-drive models offer 135 kW, still competitive. With Australia’s expanding fast-charging network—think Chargefox or Evie stations in Sydney, Melbourne, or the Gold Coast—you can top up during a coffee break. For home charging, a 7.4 kW wallbox delivers a full charge overnight, perfect for suburban garages.
10. Sporty Coupe Styling with Family Appeal
The Capri’s coupe-SUV design sets it apart from boxier rivals like the Tesla Model Y or Hyundai Ioniq 5. Its sleek profile, lowered stance (20 mm below the Ford Explorer), and aggressive front fascia give it a sporty edge that turns heads in urban hubs like Surry Hills or Fortitude Valley. Despite the sloping roofline, it offers generous legroom and a flat rear floor, ensuring comfort for kids or mates on group outings to the Barossa Valley.
Things to Consider Before Buying
- Rear Headroom: The coupe styling limits headroom, potentially uncomfortable for taller passengers (over 6 ft) on long drives.
- Ride and Handling: The firm suspension feels bumpy on Australia’s potholed rural roads (e.g., outback NSW), and light steering lacks the precision of the Kia EV6.
- Price Creep: Top-spec models (~$90,000 AUD) are pricier than better-rounded rivals, so the base or mid-spec offers the best value.
- Warranty: Ford’s 3-year/60,000 km warranty is average, trailing Kia’s 7-year/100,000 km and Hyundai’s 5-year/unlimited km offerings.
- Steering Controls: The touch-sensitive, flimsy steering wheel buttons are frustrating and prone to accidental presses.
Ford Capri vs. Rivals: How It Stacks Up
- Tesla Model Y Long Range ($80,000 AUD): Similar range and price, but offers a front boot and slicker infotainment. Capri wins on boot space and standard equipment.
- Kia EV6 GT Line ($85,000 AUD): Superior ride comfort, handling, and warranty, but smaller boot and less front storage. Capri edges out on range and efficiency.
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 ($75,000 AUD): More spacious rear seating and faster charging (200 kW), but less sporty styling. Capri’s boot and performance are stronger.
- VW ID.5 GTX ($82,000 AUD): Comparable platform, but Capri offers better interior quality and boot space, though ID.5 handles slightly better.
Final Verdict: Should Aussies Buy the Ford Capri?
The Ford Capri redefines electric SUV style with its sleek design, class-leading boot space, and impressive range, making it a strong contender for Australian buyers in 2025. While its firm ride, limited rear headroom, and average warranty trail rivals like the Kia EV6 or Tesla Model Y, its efficiency, performance options, and generous equipment list deliver exceptional value, especially in base or mid-spec trims. Whether you’re cruising through Perth’s suburbs or embarking on a coastal adventure along the Pacific Highway, the Capri blends sporty flair with family practicality. Ready to take it for a spin? Visit your local Ford dealer and share your thoughts in the comments below!
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