Volkswagen’s Electric Nostalgia: The 2025 ID.Buzz Reimagines Minivans for the Future

Analysis: The 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz Revitalizes Minivans with a Retro Twist

The long-awaited electric reincarnation of VW's iconic Bus is making its way to American shores. Ingeniously crafted, the ID.Buzz manages to bridge the gap between a bygone era and the electric future seamlessly.

Everyone desires to own one. Indeed, it's overdue and has been plagued by years of unsuccessful attempts and prototype models, and at this point, the initial Bohemians might have hung up their nomadic boots. Yet, the sight of this van's distinctive front and iconic dual-color designs strikes a chord of reminiscence across different ages.

Over the last seven days, I had the opportunity to take the ID.Buzz for a spin not in the bustling cityscape of San Francisco, but along the winding country lanes and amidst the residential neighborhoods of northern Georgia. The array of curious inquiries, onlookers, and approving gestures — including a nod from the driver of a worn Tacoma, a wave from someone in an Explorer, and a thumbs-up from a Cybertruck owner — made it crystal clear within a mere 10 minutes that there's a burgeoning widespread interest for this vehicle that extends well beyond the progressive urban centers and iconic cultural hubs.

2025 Model of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz

Upcoming 2025 VW ID.Buzz

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

The ID.Buzz garners grins wherever it travels and resonates above the hum of electric vehicle disagreement in the US, regardless of its electric status – a significant achievement in an election year. Indeed, it runs on electricity, and yet, its power source seems inconsequential simultaneously.

If Volkswagen was concerned about when to release their vehicle, it got me thinking that perhaps the delayed debut might actually benefit the ID.Buzz, as it's more than just a shallow, flat tribute to bygone days.

The design of the ID.Buzz stands out positively without being overwhelming

The ID.Buzz avoids the trap of overdoing the vintage look, a mistake that many recent cars have made, including, truthfully, VW's own New Beetle. The Buzz strikes a pleasing balance with its nostalgic exterior flair, while the interior remains a fantastic, modern van that leverages the benefits of its electric vehicle foundation.

While the design inspiration from the '50s and '60s air-cooled models is evident, the Buzz actually represents a modern take on the classic Eurovan design. Viewed from any side except the front, it's clear that the vehicle is essentially a spacious box on wheels, featuring a nearly flat floor, three rows of seats accommodating up to seven passengers, and an impressively versatile and expansive storage capacity.

2025 VW ID.Buzz Model

The ID.Buzz model in the United States is available in a variety of seven two-tone color combinations, featuring different hues paired with white, as well as a red and gray combination, or single-tone options in white, gray, or black. For the time being and the upcoming period, the ID.Buzz will be sold in the U.S. exclusively as a three-row vehicle, measuring 195.4 inches in length and built on a significantly extended wheelbase of 127.5 inches. Standing at 76.2 inches tall, it's roughly 10 inches higher than the VW ID.4 crossover, yet it provides a reasonable 6.1 inches of ground clearance which should be adequate for navigating through rough tracks leading to camping locations or starting points for trails.

Initial thoughts on the VW ID.Buzz: It's fast and operates silently, with accuracy though it feels weighty. VW made the executive decision to forgo introducing the ID.Buzz to the American market in its initial standard-wheelbase model, resulting in a two-year delay. The American version will feature several enhancements such as an extended length by approximately 10 inches, an updated infotainment system, advanced software, a stronger rear motor, and an upsized 91-kwh battery compared to the 82-kwh battery used in the European models.

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

2025 VW ID.Buzz Model

2025 Model of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz

Upcoming 2025 VW ID.Buzz

What's the driving experience like with the ID.Buzz? It feels substantial, given its weight—yes, all three tons are noticeable. The suspension is on the softer side, with a focus on smooth riding rather than agile maneuvering. However, the vehicle's low center of gravity and accurate steering ensure it's manageable to control. For those familiar with the handling of both oversized traditional vans and smaller minivans, the ID.Buzz will comfortably sit within the latter's territory. The model is notably broad, measuring 78.1 inches excluding the mirrors, but this didn’t detract from its dependable performance and straightforward positioning on the slim, shoulderless backroads of Georgia.

When it comes to maneuvering in parking spaces, it's important to note that the length of the vehicle is comparable to that of large SUVs with three rows of seats. Driving the single-motor rear-wheel-drive variant, as I did, you'll find it has an impressive turning radius of 37.4 feet, though opting for the all-wheel-drive model will increase this to 42.7 feet. Additionally, having genuine, traditional visibility through the windows, as opposed to relying solely on cameras and alert systems, is a significant advantage.

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

Upcoming 2025 VW ID.Buzz

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

Volkswagen hasn't announced significant updates to the suspension system for the updated U.S. model, but this latest ID.Buzz exhibited less front-end dipping during forceful braking compared to a test drive of the shorter variant we took a few years back—possibly an advantage of the elongated chassis.

The ID.Buzz is equipped with Volkswagen's enhanced electric propulsion system, known as AP550, which is also featured in the 2024 VW ID.4, powering the rear wheels. This system generates 282 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The forthcoming all-wheel-drive models will include the aforementioned propulsion system at the rear in addition to an inductive motor at the front, contributing an additional 99 pound-feet of torque and increasing the overall power to 335 horsepower.

One reviewer described the ID.Buzz as lacking in speed, but in my experience, the vehicle displayed ample vitality even with just one motor. Volkswagen predicts that the dual-motor variant will reach 60 mph from a standstill in 6 seconds, whereas the rear-wheel-drive models, such as the one we tested, will achieve this in roughly 7.5 seconds. The towing capabilities of the ID.Buzz are rated at 2,600 pounds for trailers with brakes and 1,650 pounds for those without.

Indeed, the vehicle has a significant weight. The model we took for a spin, with its lighter rear-wheel-drive configuration, tips the scales at a substantial 5,968 pounds. Opt for the all-wheel drive with two motors, and the weight increases to 6,197 pounds.

Upcoming 2025 Model of the VW

The ID.Buzz's power efficiency

Similar to other electric vehicles from Volkswagen, manipulating the gear selector provides the option to choose 'D' mode for coasting with low regenerative braking, or 'B' mode for increased regeneration that is still gentle. Opting for the Sport drive mode enhances the regeneration intensity of both settings, making it suitable for mountainous or winding routes, yet it doesn't offer a true one-pedal driving experience. However, the braking system's response and integration are on point, offering a consistent and gradual performance.

Volkswagen has stated that the ID.Buzz can travel 2.5 miles on a single kilowatt-hour of electricity (equivalent to 83 miles per gallon of gasoline), with the EPA's highway test showing a slightly lower efficiency of 2.2 miles per kilowatt-hour (or 75 MPGe). During a test drive that included a 110-mile journey through gentle mountains, a mix of high-speed freeway driving, brisk rural routes, and moderate suburban traffic, with the temperature hovering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the vehicle's onboard computer showed that it achieved an efficiency of 2.6 miles per kilowatt-hour. Later, during a relaxed drive on mostly flat highways at speeds between 65 and 70 miles per hour, the efficiency recorded was 2.4 miles per kilowatt-hour.

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

We also powered up the ID.Buzz using Level 2 charging, utilizing its 11-kw built-in charger, along with some DC rapid-charging. Although our experience might not be typical of the average road trip, we connected a 160-kw CCS plug at 44% battery level and observed a maximum charge rate of 117 kw when it hit around 49%, with the battery achieving 90% in roughly 30 minutes. According to VW, utilizing DC fast-charging capabilities at up to 200 kw can result in a battery boost from 10% to 80% in approximately 26 minutes.

Overall, although the instrument panel indicates a full charge only provides around 191 miles, our experience was more positive, with our findings closely aligning with the Buzz's official EPA range estimate of 234 miles (or 231 miles for the AWD model).

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

The built-in navigation system is designed with trip preparation in mind, initiating the battery pack's pre-heating process for optimal charging speed either when a charging station is included in your route or with a simple tap on the display's virtual button. Additionally, if you prefer using your preferred mapping application, you can easily connect your smartphone and utilize Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. I alternated between using CarPlay and the car's own system, and I found both to be highly effective.

The VW ID.Buzz offers ample storage options, including versatile door bins throughout its three rows. Its elevated center console between the driver and passenger seats is fully removable, functioning as a portable mini-cooler. Additionally, a retractable drawer complete with cupholders and extra space can be tucked away, maintaining the cabin's open and roomy atmosphere. The vehicle also features dual-tiered door bins and a dashboard tray, ensuring there's a spot for all the little necessities on a long drive.

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

2025 Model of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz

I discovered that the non-slip shelf to the right-hand side of the driver's seat was the perfect spot to wirelessly charge my phone while keeping it securely in place. To enhance the connectivity for all passengers in this three-row model, they've included a total of eight USB-C outlets. The front seats offer the comfort of both heating and cooling features, along with electric adjustment controls. They also come with an integrated armrest and a raised seating stance, which gives me the back support I prefer for extended drives.

The automatic sliding door operates smoothly, reminiscent of the high-end minivans you might have had at home, and it conveniently avoids obstructing the charging process, as we observed. For those considering the ID.Buzz, the most significant decision may be the interior configuration—specifically, whether to opt for a middle bench seat as seen in our version or to go for individual second-row seats, which reduces the seating to six but is necessary for the all-wheel-drive models.

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

Upcoming 2025 VW Electric Microbus

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

Upon initial inspection, the cargo space in the rear of the Buzz might strike one as peculiar, with its baskets placed under a robust flip-up door. However, when the third and second rows are folded down, they align evenly, except for a small gap between them. This minor inconvenience for those wishing to use the space for sleeping can easily be remedied with a sturdy piece of plywood. It's worth noting, though, that the seats need to be removed first, which is no easy task due to their weight. Once removed, the very back of the space is raised, suggesting the need for some additional leveling for those intending to use the Buzz for extended periods of living or sleeping, beyond its typical driving function.

Volkswagen anticipates that most buyers of the Buzz model will transition from owning “large SUVs.” The company highlights that the Buzz offers a more spacious interior compared to the Atlas, despite having the dimensions of a Cross Sport. Additionally, Volkswagen asserts that when it comes to third-row legroom, the Buzz leads the pack among vehicles available in the US market.

2025 Model of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz

2025 Model of Volkswagen's ID.Buzz

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

Volkswagen has retained a feature from the ID.4 and the European version of the ID.Buzz in its design—the integration of the controls for both front and rear power windows into a single button. This choice is especially perplexing when it comes to the unique rear window-within-a-window, making the experience potentially more daunting and puzzling. VW, what was the reasoning behind this decision?

The only other minor complaint I have stems from what is actually a positive aspect—the lack of engine sound and excellent blocking of noise from the road. However, once we exceeded 65 mph, there was a noticeable sound of wind rushing near the area of the front pillar and side mirror, escalating to an almost whistling sound at 80 mph. It's worth mentioning that the model I tested was a pre-production prototype, hence the window sealing might not have been as perfected as the final product's.

According to Volkswagen, the American version of the ID.Buzz has a drag coefficient of 0.29, and its maximum speed reaches 99 mph, an increase from the 90 mph top speed of the previous European models.

Upcoming 2025 VW ID.Buzz

Are ID.Buzz's costs signaling a rocky journey ahead?

The only perplexing aspect of the Buzz seems to be its cost and market placement.

The most perplexing aspect of the situation is understanding Volkswagen's reasoning behind viewing the ID.Buzz as a specialized model, especially considering its practical interior design and subtle nods to past styles on its exterior without going overboard.

The starting price for the Buzz is set at $61,545, which includes a $1,550 fee for destination. The baseline Pro S model comes equipped with essential safety features, tri-zone temperature control, automated rear gate and sliding doors, warming seats in the second row on the sides, and an updated, faster 12.9-inch system for infotainment. The Pro S Plus upgrade includes a built-in towing hitch, visual display projected on the windshield, superior Harmon Kardon sound system, and for the models with all-wheel drive, special captain's seats and a windshield that can be heated. The premium 1st Edition is priced at $67,045 for the single-motor version, while the all-wheel drive variant is $71,545, adding a wide-view roof, a two-toned design option (also available separately), crossbars for the roof, and mats for the vehicle's floor.

We evaluated the ID.Buzz, a high-tier Pro S Plus model adorned in a Cabana Blue and Candy White exterior, which costs an additional $995. The vehicle features a Dune-colored cabin and comes with the choice of an expansive electrochromic panoramic roof, measuring 67.4 inches in length and 40.8 inches in width, for an extra $1,495. The total price amounts to $67,535. As sunlight hit the roof, it transformed into a shimmering gray shade. According to VW, both the panoramic roof and the fold-away tow hitch are unprecedented offerings from the brand in the U.S. market.

2025 Model of Volkswagen ID.Buzz

Volkswagen is not intending to manufacture the ID.Buzz in the United States in the near future, which means the possibility of obtaining a $7,500 tax credit is off the table, though reduced lease rates might be an option through the electric vehicle leasing exception. Interestingly, the company didn't approach the creation of the Buzz as it would a standard passenger car. Rather, it approached its commercial vehicle division to bring this item to life, despite it appearing to be a project that should have been pivotal, much like the Golf, to the company's ongoing success.

In the mid-60s, as the popularity of the Microbus surged alongside the growth of countercultural movements, a new car on average would set buyers back roughly $2,650. Meanwhile, the notably basic models of the Microbus reached a maximum price of about $2,550. Using the official inflation calculator provided by the government, the cost of the Microbus at that time translates to approximately $25,400 in today's money.

Currently, the standard cost for a brand-new car hovers near $48,000. Volkswagen's decision to market their latest model at a 25% higher price point strongly indicates their strategy to position it as a luxury item, suggesting it's a specialized model with a potentially transient market presence.

In this design, the ID.Buzz might dominate its unique market for a considerable time. Think back to the era when minivans were a symbol of style? Models like the Chevy Astro Van, the Ford Aerostar, the Pontiac Trans Sport, and GM's other "dustbuster" vans, along with the Toyota Previa, all made an impact. The ID.Buzz is equally eye-catching and looks set to leave a lasting impression.

Upcoming 2025 model of the Volkswagen

The ID.Buzz should have been positioned as an essential, no-frills vehicle with a starting price around $40,000, following a sales approach similar to Scion's strategy from several years ago. It should also have featured a flexible interior design and a vast array of VW-approved add-ons. Such a vehicle would likely have been a hit among various consumer groups—from businesses to active young adults, to families looking for a car that can adapt to their changing needs over time. Moreover, this approach could have alleviated car dealers’ concerns about the viability of their sales model in the age of electric vehicles.

Currently, the ID.Buzz is an impressive offering that unfortunately confines the brand's potential in the U.S. market to an extremely limited scope.

Are consumers who can't afford the ID.Buzz going to opt for a Kia EV9 or the entry-level Rivian R1S as alternatives? How will Volkswagen dealerships handle their price surcharges? The madness is about to ensue.

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