Electric Van Dreams Finally Reality
After decades of concept vehicles and broken promises, Volkswagen has finally delivered a modern interpretation of their iconic microbus. The 2025 ID.Buzz represents more than just another electric vehicle – it's a nostalgia-fueled statement piece that transforms the classic van formula for the electric age. Starting at $67,045 for the well-equipped 1st Edition, this isn't budget transportation, but it delivers something no other vehicle can: pure automotive joy wrapped in a boxy, loveable package that turns heads wherever it goes.
2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz
View ListingsPros
- Exceptional interior space and seating for up to seven passengers
- Striking retro-modern design that attracts positive attention
- Better-than-EPA range performance in real-world conditions
- Comfortable ride quality with minimal body roll
- Comprehensive driver assistance features standard
Cons
- Premium pricing limits accessibility compared to competitors
- Frustrating touch-sensitive controls throughout cabin
- Significant wind and road noise at highway speeds
- Dashboard materials feel cheap for the price point
- Limited cargo storage solutions for family needs
Performance That Surprises
The ID.Buzz packs a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 282 horsepower – nearly six times more powerful than the original VW Bus. This setup delivers sprightly acceleration from standstill and confident highway passing power, even when climbing hills. The 91-kWh battery pack (86 kWh usable) provides EPA-rated range of 234 miles, though real-world testing consistently achieved closer to 280 miles in mixed driving conditions. Charging capabilities reach 200 kW maximum, enabling 10-80% charging in approximately 26 minutes. The rear-wheel-drive configuration maintains the original bus's layout while delivering modern performance expectations.
Interior Space Champions
Where the ID.Buzz truly excels is passenger accommodation. The 127.5-inch wheelbase creates genuinely impressive space across all three rows of seating. Even exceptionally tall individuals can sit comfortably in the second row behind an optimal driving position, while the third row offers legitimate adult-sized space. The flat floor design maximizes interior volume, creating an airy, lounge-like atmosphere enhanced by the available electrochromic glass roof. Front seats feature 12-way power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The bench-style second row increases capacity to seven passengers, though individual captain's chairs are also available.
Technology Hits and Misses
The ID.Buzz comes standard with IQ Drive semi-autonomous driving assistance, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These systems perform reliably and feel natural in operation. However, the infotainment system reveals Volkswagen's corporate EV shortcomings. Climate controls and heated seat adjustments are buried in touch menus, while temperature and volume rely on finicky touch sliders. The steering wheel controls are also touch-sensitive, making them prone to accidental activation. Window controls add unnecessary complexity, requiring drivers to switch between front and rear modes to operate all four windows.
Value Proposition Questions
At $67,045 for the 1st Edition, the ID.Buzz enters premium electric SUV territory alongside the Kia EV9, Hyundai IONIQ 9, and Volvo EX90. Traditional pricing tools show the EV9 offering superior value proposition with comparable features at lower cost. The ID.Buzz's premium reflects its unique styling and nostalgic appeal rather than superior technology or luxury appointments. Dashboard materials feel surprisingly cheap for this price point, and storage solutions lag behind more practical competitors. However, no other vehicle delivers the ID.Buzz's distinctive character and head-turning presence.
| Feature | VW ID.Buzz | Kia EV9 | Volvo EX90 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $67,045 | $56,395 | $79,995 |
| Range (EPA) | 234 miles | 304 miles | 308 miles |
| Seating Capacity | 7 passengers | 7 passengers | 7 passengers |
| Charging Speed | 200 kW | 210 kW | 250 kW |
| Cargo Space | 39.6 cu ft | 81.7 cu ft | 37.4 cu ft |
Final Verdict
The 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz succeeds as an emotional purchase rather than a rational one. It delivers genuine joy through distinctive styling, exceptional passenger space, and solid electric performance. The driving experience proves surprisingly engaging for such a tall, boxy vehicle, while advanced safety features provide confidence. However, the premium pricing, cheap interior materials, and frustrating controls prevent it from being a clear recommendation over more practical competitors. For buyers seeking maximum value and utility, alternatives like the Kia EV9 make more financial sense. But for those drawn to its unique character and nostalgic appeal, the ID.Buzz offers an irreplaceable automotive experience that justifies its premium positioning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz cost?
The 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz starts at $67,045 for the 1st Edition model, including destination charges. This pricing positions it as a premium electric vehicle competing against luxury three-row SUVs. Lower trim levels like the Pro S may be available at reduced prices, though specific pricing hasn't been announced. The premium reflects the unique styling and nostalgic appeal rather than superior technology compared to competitors like the Kia EV9, which starts around $56,000 with similar features and better range.
What is the real-world range of the ID.Buzz?
While the EPA rates the 2025 ID.Buzz at 234 miles of range, real-world testing consistently achieved closer to 280 miles in mixed Los Angeles driving conditions. The 91-kWh battery pack (86 kWh usable) provides adequate range for most daily driving needs. Charging capabilities reach 200 kW maximum, enabling 10-80% charging in approximately 26 minutes at compatible fast-charging stations. Range performance appears to exceed EPA estimates, which is encouraging for potential buyers concerned about electric vehicle range anxiety.
How spacious is the ID.Buzz interior?
The ID.Buzz offers exceptional interior space thanks to its 127.5-inch wheelbase and tall roofline. All three rows provide legitimate adult-sized seating, with enough room for passengers over 6'8" tall to sit comfortably in both second and third rows. The flat floor design maximizes interior volume, creating an airy, lounge-like atmosphere. Seating configurations include either seven passengers with a bench second row or six with captain's chairs. Front seats feature 12-way power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. This spaciousness represents one of the ID.Buzz's strongest selling points against competitors.
What are the main complaints about the ID.Buzz?
The primary criticisms center around the user interface and interior quality. Climate controls and heated seats are buried in touch screen menus rather than physical buttons, requiring driver attention while driving. Temperature and volume controls use finicky touch sliders that lack the precision of traditional knobs. Dashboard materials feel surprisingly cheap for a $67,000 vehicle. Additionally, significant wind and road noise intrude at highway speeds, and the complex window control system requires switching between front and rear modes. These frustrations don't diminish the overall appeal but represent missed opportunities for refinement.
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