TWO OF A KIND

Ford brought back the iconic Capri name for its new coupé-SUV, which shares its platform with the fresh Cupra Tavascan. Which is the top dog?

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FORD CAPRI vs CUPRA TAVASCAN

They have the same DNA, yet there can only be one winner

NAMING a new car after an existing model isn't a new thing, even if it means ditching the heritage of the original vehicle. It certainly shouldn't be a surprise when Ford does it, given its past form. The Puma name was reincarnated from a Fiesta-based coupé for a Fiesta-based crossover, while if you allow us the leeway of some spelling tweaks, a US-market large barge and a forgettable Euro coupé became the Galaxy MPV and Kuga SUV.

Ford was at it as recently as last year, too, when the Explorer was revived as an electric SUV. But rarely has it caused more controversy than with the new Capri. The name, which Auto Express exclusively revealed in March 2023, caused a stir among Fast Ford fans who remembered the original blue-collar hero.

Some of the uproar was no doubt caused by the fact that it's a sign from Ford that a stylish, affordable coupé in the spirit of the original is likely off the cards for some time. Ultimately, though, it's just a name and what matters is whether the new Capri is any good or not.

Here, we've pitched it against another allnew rival. The Cupra Tavascan also plays heavily on sporty looks and distinctive design, but how do the pair compare?

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Ford Capri

FEW names in Ford's back catalogue hold as much prestige as Capri, so for the company to resurrect it, there's plenty of pressure to deliver something special especially if the car in question completely tears up the formula set by the original icon.