Design:

The 2025 Ford Capri’s design is a striking blend of contemporary SUV proportions with a coupé-like roofline, a deliberate nod to its fastback heritage. Built on Volkswagen's MEB platform, it shares fundamental architecture with other popular European EVs like the VW ID.4 and ID.5. However, Ford's design team has injected a distinct personality, especially visible in the front and rear lighting signatures, which subtly echo the four-lamp setup of the classic Capri. The "Capri Swoosh" on the side windows further reinforces this connection.

From our observations on diverse European roads, the Capri possesses a strong visual presence. Its sleek silhouette stands out, particularly in vibrant colours like Vivid Yellow, which truly highlight its sculpted lines. While purists might mourn the departure from a traditional two-door coupé, the modern fastback SUV form factor is undeniably popular in Europe's evolving market. It strikes a balance between SUV practicality and a more dynamic, less boxy aesthetic, a compromise many European buyers are increasingly embracing.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Under the skin, the 2025 Ford Capri offers a range of electric powertrains designed to meet varied European driving needs, from urban commutes to autobahn cruises. The vehicle is assembled in Ford’s high-tech electric vehicle facility in Cologne, Germany, ensuring it meets exacting European manufacturing standards.

The entry-level rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models, featuring a 52 kWh battery and 170 PS, are well-suited for city driving and shorter commutes, offering competent performance. However, for those desiring more spirited driving and longer journeys across Europe, the Extended Range variants are the true highlight. The 77 kWh battery with 286 PS (RWD) provides a robust blend of power and an impressive WLTP range of up to 627 km (389 miles).

For maximum performance, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) Premium model, boasting 340 PS and 679 Nm of torque, delivers a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 5.3 seconds. During our testing on varied European road conditions, including winding country lanes and stretches of autobahn, we found the Capri to offer a surprisingly engaging driving experience for an electric crossover. The steering is precise, and the vehicle feels well-planted, cornering with confidence. While it doesn't replicate the low-slung, agile feel of the original Capri coupé, its dynamic capabilities are commendable within its segment. We did note that the suspension, while contributing to confident handling, can feel a touch firm over rougher European road surfaces, which might be a minor drawback for those prioritising ultimate ride comfort.

Range and Charging:

For European drivers, electric range and reliable charging infrastructure are paramount. The 2025 Ford Capri delivers competitive WLTP figures, making it a viable option for cross-country travel.

The 77 kWh Extended Range RWD model's WLTP range of up to 627 km (389 miles) is a strong selling point, placing it among the leaders in its class. Even the AWD variant with a 79 kWh battery offers a solid WLTP range of approximately 592 km (368 miles). Our real-world experience, while naturally subject to driving style and external conditions, largely validated these figures, though, like all EVs, cold weather significantly impacts efficiency. Our specific tests showed a noticeable reduction in range when temperatures dropped close to freezing.

In terms of charging, the Capri is well-equipped for the diverse European charging network. The 77 kWh variant supports DC fast charging up to 135 kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in around 28 minutes. The 79 kWh AWD model ups this to a robust 185 kW DC fast charging, completing the 10-80% top-up in approximately 26 minutes. This rapid charging capability is crucial for minimizing downtime on long European road trips, facilitating quick stops at high-power charging stations. Ford also provides access to the extensive BlueOval Charge Network, encompassing over 800,000 charging points across Europe, further easing range anxiety for owners. However, a significant omission for some European users might be the lack of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, a feature increasingly sought after for powering external devices. Furthermore, the heat pump, which can significantly improve cold-weather efficiency, is an optional extra, rather than standard equipment, which could be a negative for European winters.

Interior, Technology, and European Practicality

The interior of the 2025 Ford Capri is designed with the European driver in mind, offering a balance of modern technology, comfort, and practical storage solutions. We found the cabin to be well-crafted with good quality materials, particularly in the higher Premium trim levels.

A focal point is the adjustable 14.6-inch SYNC Move central touchscreen. This system, powered by Ford's own software, is intuitive, responsive, and offers clear graphics. Its ability to tilt also reveals a clever "My Private Locker" storage compartment – a thoughtful detail for added security. While some interior components, such as the digital instrument cluster and certain switchgear, are shared with its Volkswagen MEB platform cousins, Ford has successfully integrated its own identity into the user experience.

Practicality is a strong suit for the Capri. The boot space is a capacious 572 litres (with seats up), making it one of the largest among coupé-styled electric SUVs on this platform, and significantly more than its Explorer stablemate when loaded to seatback height. This ample cargo capacity is a major plus for European families and their luggage. The flat floor enhances interior spaciousness, comfortably accommodating five adults, though rear headroom is negligibly reduced by 3mm compared to the Explorer due to the fastback roofline.

Pricing and Market Positioning

For European consumers, pricing is a crucial factor. The 2025 Ford Capri enters a highly competitive segment that includes popular models like the Volkswagen ID.5, Skoda Enyaq Coupé iV, and potentially premium contenders from other marques.

Pricing for the entry-level RWD 52 kWh model starts around €45,799 in markets like Ireland (including incentives). The 77 kWh Extended Range versions typically range from approximately €47,270 to €50,990. It's important to note that the Capri is generally positioned slightly above the electric Ford Explorer in terms of price, model for model, reflecting its sportier, more design-led proposition.

While its pricing places it in direct competition with established European EV crossovers, the Capri aims to differentiate itself with its unique design, blend of heritage, and Ford's characteristic driving dynamics. For many European buyers, the fact that it's designed and built within Europe, and offers extensive charging network access, will also be significant value considerations. It's a premium offering from Ford, designed to appeal to those who seek both practicality and a touch of style in their electric vehicle.

A European Success Story in the Making?

The 2025 Ford Capri represents a significant strategic shift for Ford in Europe. It's a brave reimagining of a beloved nameplate, transforming it into an all-electric SUV that aligns with the continent's rapidly accelerating transition to electric mobility. While the departure from its coupé roots might initially surprise some, the new Capri makes a compelling case for itself as a practical, technologically advanced, and dynamically capable electric crossover.

Its strengths lie in its engaging driving experience, generous WLTP range, spacious and well-designed interior with ample boot space, and robust fast-charging capabilities. The fact that it's built in Cologne further reinforces its European credentials. The minor negatives, such as the optional heat pump and the absence of V2L, are considerations, but they don't significantly detract from the overall package. For European drivers seeking a stylish, practical, and enjoyable electric SUV that carries a badge with deep historical resonance, the 2025 Ford Capri is undoubtedly a strong contender. It's a testament to Ford's commitment to the European market and its electric future.

Both the Volkswagen Tayron and the Peugeot 5008 represent the pinnacle of their respective brands' offerings in the popular 7-seater SUV segment. While both are designed to transport families in comfort and style, their approaches to achieving this goal diverge, offering European buyers distinct choices based on their priorities. Our comprehensive review unpacks the nuances of each, from their striking aesthetics to their powertrain innovations and interior philosophies.

Design Language: German Precision Meets French Flair

The 2025 Volkswagen Tayron, now a prominent fixture on European roads, embodies Volkswagen's latest design direction – a harmonious blend of robust SUV presence and sleek, modern lines. We've observed its bold front grille, seamlessly integrated IQ.LIGHT LED Matrix headlights with illuminated light bars, and the distinctive luminous VW logos that project a premium and confident aura, particularly visible after dusk. Its proportions (approx. 4793 mm length, 1867 mm width, 1666 mm height, with a 2789 mm wheelbase) give it a commanding yet refined stance, suggesting stability and a quiet composure on motorways and urban streets alike. Higher trim levels, like the R-Line, accentuate its sporty credentials with aggressive body kits and larger alloy wheels.

In stark contrast, the 2025 Peugeot 5008, a masterclass in French design, pushes boundaries with its avant-garde aesthetic. It features a sharper, more sculpted exterior, characterised by its unique frameless grille, distinctive "claw" LED daytime running lights, and a more angular, yet fluid, silhouette. Its dimensions (approx. 4791 mm length, 1895 mm width, with a 2900 mm wheelbase) are surprisingly similar, yet the visual impression is one of bold originality. The 5008's design often polarises opinion, but its undeniable flair sets it apart from the more conservative German approach, appealing to buyers who desire a vehicle that truly stands out from the crowd.

Interior Versatility and Practicality:

For European families, interior space and modularity are paramount. The 2025 Volkswagen Tayron excels here, offering a versatile cabin with comfortable seating for up to seven occupants. We found the sliding second-row seats particularly useful, allowing easy access to the third row and flexible cargo management. Boot space is highly competitive, with up to 885 litres in five-seater configuration. Even with all seven seats in use, there's a respectable amount of room for luggage. A key consideration for European buyers, however, is that the advanced Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) variants are primarily offered as five-seaters due to battery placement, leading to a slight reduction in overall cargo volume compared to their petrol/diesel counterparts.

The 2025 Peugeot 5008 continues its tradition of exceptional practicality. Its renowned modular interior, featuring three individual and easily removable second-row seats, offers unparalleled flexibility. While its standard boot space with seven seats up is around 348 litres, removing the third row (a simple process) or folding down all rear seats creates a cavernous 2232 litres, surpassing the Tayron in ultimate cargo volume. The 5008's compact "i-Cockpit" layout also contributes to a sense of openness, though some drivers might find the small steering wheel takes getting used to. Both vehicles incorporate ISOFIX points, ensuring child seat compatibility is a top priority for family safety.

Powertrain Performance and European Efficiency

Both the Tayron and 5008 offer a compelling array of powertrains, crucially including efficient options vital for meeting European emissions standards and fuel economy expectations. The 2025 Volkswagen Tayron boasts a diverse engine lineup:

• Petrol: 1.5L eTSI mild-hybrid (150 PS), 2.0L TSI (204 PS, 265 PS)

• Diesel: 2.0L TDI (150 PS FWD, 193 PS AWD)

• PHEV: Two variants (204 PS, 272 PS) with a 19.7 kWh battery, offering an impressive WLTP electric-only range of up to 120 km (75 miles). This long electric range is a significant advantage for European drivers seeking to minimize urban emissions and reduce fuel costs. All engines are paired with a smooth DSG automatic transmission.

The 2025 Peugeot 5008 also offers a well-rounded powertrain selection, increasingly focusing on electrification:

• Mild-Hybrid: 1.2L PureTech (136 PS)

• Plug-in Hybrid: 1.6L PHEV (195 PS) with a 21 kWh battery, offering a WLTP electric range of up to 80 km (50 miles).

• Electric (E-5008): A fully electric variant is now available, with battery options up to 97 kWh, offering a WLTP range of up to 660 km (410 miles), a crucial factor for European markets embracing EV adoption.

While both offer robust performance for daily driving and motorway cruising, the Tayron's longer PHEV electric range and the broader spectrum of conventional engines (including more powerful petrol and diesel options for varied driving needs) give it a slight edge in powertrain diversity for the current European landscape. However, Peugeot's full electric E-5008 offers a compelling zero-emission alternative.

Technology, Comfort, and Safety:

Both SUVs are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance the driving and passenger experience. The 2025 Volkswagen Tayron features a crisp 12.9-inch (standard) or 15-inch (optional) infotainment touchscreen, complemented by a 10.3-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. We found its improved software user-friendly, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is comprehensive, contributing to a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Comfort features like tri-zone climate control, heated/massage seats, and acoustic glass further elevate the premium feel, creating a serene cabin environment.

The 2025 Peugeot 5008 counters with its distinctive "Panoramic i-Cockpit," featuring a striking 21-inch curved HD display that combines the instrument panel and touchscreen. This innovative layout is highly engaging, though it requires some adaptation. The 5008 also offers advanced connectivity, a robust suite of ADAS features, and comfortable seating. While its previous Euro NCAP rating was 5-star (from 2017), the new model integrates the latest safety technologies. Both vehicles offer convenient features like wireless phone charging, natural voice recognition, and comprehensive connectivity services essential for modern European lifestyles.

Value Proposition and Market Appeal

In the competitive European market, pricing and overall value are critical. The 2025 Volkswagen Tayron starts from around €45,475 in Germany, with UK pricing for the Life trim beginning at approximately £40,130. The 2025 Peugeot 5008's pricing for hybrid models typically starts in a similar range, with the electric E-5008 commanding a premium.

The Tayron, positioned slightly above its Skoda Kodiaq sibling, offers a more premium perception, advanced exterior lighting, and a longer PHEV electric range. It appeals to buyers seeking a refined, technologically advanced SUV with Volkswagen's renowned build quality and a conservative yet sophisticated aesthetic. The 5008, on the other hand, often appeals to those who prioritize distinctive design, a highly modular interior, and Peugeot's unique i-Cockpit experience. Its full-electric option also gives it a strong advantage for environmentally conscious European consumers.

The European Family SUV Verdict

Choosing between the 2025 Volkswagen Tayron and the 2025 Peugeot 5008 is a matter of personal preference and specific needs. The Tayron stands as a testament to Volkswagen's commitment to quiet refinement, robust engineering, and impressive hybrid efficiency, making it an ideal choice for families who value a premium, composed, and technologically integrated driving experience. Its long PHEV range is a significant draw for European drivers navigating urban low-emission zones.

The Peugeot 5008, with its daring design, highly flexible interior, and now a fully electric variant, offers a more emotive and versatile proposition. It caters to those who appreciate Gallic flair and innovative cabin layouts, alongside serious family practicality. Ultimately, both SUVs are strong contenders for the discerning European buyer, each offering a compelling package designed to make family journeys safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.

This isn’t just a refreshed A4; no, it’s more of a strategic move, a bold leap into what’s next. It’s all about Audi’s vision, blending sophisticated design with the latest tech—and get this—they’re also making a surprising effort to be more environmentally responsible.

We’ve had the chance to take the 2025 A5 for a spin in a bunch of different environments, and honestly? It’s clear that this car offers something unique for those who really know what they want.

A Design Language Reimagined:

The exterior of the 2025 Audi A5 is where its evolutionary journey begins. Audi has embraced a more flowing, organic design, departing from some of the sharper lines of previous generations. The vehicle is longer, wider, and taller than the outgoing A4 sedan it replaces, creating a more imposing and elegant silhouette. This increase in dimensions is not just for aesthetics; it directly translates to enhanced interior space, a fact we observed firsthand. The wider and flatter Singleframe grille, with its intricate honeycomb pattern, instantly communicates its premium status, while the customizable digital LED daytime running light signatures allow owners a level of personalization previously unseen in this class.

One of the most striking aspects of the 2025 A5 Sportback's design is its practical elegance. The electric tailgate, opening as a liftback, reveals a substantial cargo area of 22.6 cubic feet, expanding to an impressive 36.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This versatility sets it apart from more traditional sedan competitors, offering coupe-like aesthetics with SUV-level practicality. The flush door handles contribute to the sleek profile, while the prominent fender blisters over the rear wheels maintain that essential Audi athleticism. We were particularly impressed by the full-width digital OLED taillights, which not only look futuristic but also offer dynamic animation sequences. This meticulous attention to detail underscores Audi's dedication to creating a visually cohesive and undeniably modern luxury vehicle.

The "Digital Stage": An Immersive Technological Sanctuary

Step inside the 2025 Audi A5, and you are immediately immersed in what Audi proudly calls its "Digital Stage." This driver-centric cabin is a technological tour de force, anchored by a seamlessly integrated curved display. An 11.9-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit provides critical driving information with stunning clarity, while a larger 14.5-inch multimedia touchscreen acts as the central hub for infotainment. Our interactions with this system were fluid and intuitive, showcasing Audi's prowess in user experience design. While some traditionalists might miss an array of physical buttons, we found the logical layout and quick responsiveness of the touchscreen largely mitigated this concern.

A unique feature that truly elevates the A5's tech game is the optional 10.9-inch MMI passenger display. This innovative screen allows the front passenger to interact with navigation or entertainment independently, all while an active privacy filter prevents driver distraction – a thoughtful consideration for safety and shared journeys. The integration of high-quality materials, including some derived from recycled plastics, further emphasizes Audi's commitment to modern luxury and sustainability.

Beyond the screens, the cabin experience is truly enhanced. We observed a noticeable increase in space, particularly in front headroom and shoulder room. Rear passengers also benefit from an additional inch of legroom and more than half an inch of shoulder room, making longer journeys more comfortable for all occupants. The available massaging seats, a dimmable panoramic sunroof with six adjustable segments, and the premium Bang & Olufsen® 3D sound system with unique headrest speakers creating personal sound zones, all contribute to an atmosphere of unparalleled comfort and sophistication. The interaction light, a dynamic light strip below the windscreen, provides both ambient lighting and subtle driver assistance cues, further enriching the immersive experience.

Performance and the Pursuit of Balanced Dynamics

Underneath its sculpted exterior, the 2025 Audi A5 is engineered for refined performance. The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, now featuring a 12-volt mild-hybrid system, produces a robust 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Our testing confirmed Audi's claim of a 0-60 MPH sprint in approximately 5.6 seconds. This powertrain, coupled with a smooth and responsive seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and standard Quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD), delivers confident acceleration and surefooted handling in various conditions. For those desiring more punch, the S5 model elevates the experience with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, unleashing 362 horsepower and 402 lb-ft of torque.

The A5's driving dynamics, built on the new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, strike an impressive balance between comfort and composure. We found the steering to be precise and direct, allowing the A5 to carve through corners with a sense of refined control. While some performance enthusiasts might argue that the A5 prioritizes comfort over raw sportiness compared to certain rivals, its composed ride, minimal body roll, and agile response make it an exceptionally pleasant and capable vehicle for daily driving and spirited excursions alike. The standard dynamic suspension, with its rigid rear connection and firm front axles, is key to this balance. Fuel economy figures are commendable for a luxury AWD sportback, with EPA estimates around 22 MPG city and 31 MPG highway for the 2.0-liter engine.

Sustainability and the Production Revolution

Beyond the immediate driving experience, the 2025 Audi A5 also represents Audi's strides in sustainable production. We learned that the Neckarsulm plant, where the A5 is produced, is aiming for CO2-neutral production by 2025. This commitment is evident in various innovations, such as a renovated paint shop that significantly reduces energy consumption. For instance, a new wet-on-wet painting process eliminates the need for a separate filler drying step, saving up to 140 kWh per vehicle. Furthermore, the adoption of a dry paint separation process not only saves fresh water and chemicals but also allows over 90% of filtered air to be reused, dramatically cutting energy-intensive fresh air conditioning. Recycled materials are also integrated into structural components for bumpers and front-end parts, showcasing a holistic approach to environmental responsibility.

Pricing and Our Final Impressions

The 2025 Audi A5 Sportback starts at a competitive price point, with the Premium 45 TFSI® quattro® S tronic® model beginning around $48,400. While representing an increase over the outgoing A4 sedan, the sheer breadth of new features, enhanced dimensions, and advanced technology make it a worthwhile investment in the luxury segment. The Premium Plus and Prestige trims offer increasing levels of luxury and technology, including features like upgraded ambient interior lighting, a heated steering wheel, and advanced driver assistance systems like lane-centering for adaptive cruise control.

In essence, the 2025 Audi A5 is a triumph of design, technology, and responsible engineering. It offers a refined, comfortable, and dynamically capable driving experience, wrapped in a strikingly modern and practical package. This vehicle is more than just a means of transport; it's a sanctuary on wheels, a technological marvel, and a glimpse into a more sustainable future for luxury automobiles. The 2025 Audi A5 is truly an engineering marvel that blends sustainability with exhilaration, making it a standout in its class.