Should you buy the coolest edition to the ID. family?
Image: Volkswagen
Article by: Jeremy Bates
Volkswagen has been creating buzz—quite literally—with its highly anticipated all-electric ID. Buzz, a modern take on the iconic VW Microbus. With its retro styling, spacious interior, and eco-friendly electric drivetrain, the ID. Buzz has arrived in the U.S. with both nostalgia and next-gen tech driving interest. But with a growing selection of EVs on the market, from SUVs to luxury sedans, the question remains: Should you buy the new VW ID. Buzz? We’ll take a look at what makes this EV unique and whether it lives up to the hype as a practical, fun, and environmentally conscious choice.
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Nostalgia Meets Modernity
The ID. Buzz design is a striking homage to the classic VW Microbus of the 1960s and ’70s. Its distinctively boxy shape, large windows, and playful color options make it an instant attention-grabber, perfect for drivers who want a vehicle with personality. This retro-inspired exterior is paired with futuristic LED lighting and sleek, aerodynamic lines that give it a fresh look while still honoring the original.
Inside, the ID. Buzz is every bit as unique. The interior is designed with sustainability and practicality in mind, featuring eco-friendly materials, a roomy layout, and flexible seating options. With a generous amount of space for both passengers and cargo, the ID. Buzz is tailor-made for family trips, weekend getaways, and daily commutes alike. Volkswagen’s reputation for quality interiors is evident, with intuitive controls, ample storage, and a host of tech features that add convenience and comfort.
Image: Volkswagen
Cutting-Edge Electric Performance
Under the hood, the ID. Buzz delivers solid electric performance. It comes equipped with a powerful electric motor and a battery that offers an impressive range suitable for both city and highway driving. The expected range of the ID. Buzz in the U.S. is around 250-275 miles on a single charge, depending on driving conditions—a respectable figure for most daily and recreational needs. Fast-charging capabilities mean drivers can regain up to 80% of their battery in roughly 30 minutes, making long-distance travel more feasible.
The ID. Buzz also features a smooth and quiet driving experience, a signature of EVs, with responsive acceleration and steady handling. Built on VW’s versatile MEB platform, the ID. Buzz promises both stability and maneuverability, which are particularly valuable for urban driving. Volkswagen has incorporated regenerative braking to help conserve energy, allowing drivers to enjoy the eco-friendly benefits of an electric vehicle with minimal adjustment to their driving habits.
Tech-Forward Features
The ID. Buzz is packed with tech features designed to enhance both safety and convenience. The vehicle is equipped with VW’s latest infotainment system, complete with a user-friendly touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, and voice controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it easy to stay connected on the go, while an array of USB-C ports keep devices charged and ready for adventure.
Advanced safety features are a standout, with VW equipping the ID. Buzz with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, and parking sensors. The optional “IQ.Drive” package includes even more advanced driver-assistance features, including semi-autonomous driving modes for increased safety and ease during highway journeys. For families and tech enthusiasts alike, these features provide peace of mind and add to the overall appeal of the ID. Buzz as a reliable, family-friendly vehicle.
Image: Volkswagen
Practicality and Space for Everyday Use
For families and adventure-seekers, the ID. Buzz’s spacious interior is a major selling point. With flexible seating arrangements and ample room in both the two-row and upcoming three-row models, the ID. Buzz can comfortably fit up to seven passengers. The seats are designed to fold flat for additional cargo space, making it an excellent choice for transporting everything from camping gear to furniture.
Compared to many compact EVs on the market, the ID. Buzz stands out for its versatility. It’s roomy enough to function as a daily driver for families while offering the storage space of a small SUV. For those who want to go electric without sacrificing utility, the ID. Buzz is a highly practical option, combining eco-consciousness with the utility of a minivan or SUV.
Considerations: Is the ID. Buzz Right for You?
While the ID. Buzz brings plenty of charm and functionality, there are a few considerations to weigh before buying. One factor is price: the ID. Buzz sits at a mid-to-premium price point, making it more costly than some other electric models. However, its range, space, and advanced features offer significant value, particularly for those looking for a family vehicle.
Another consideration is charging infrastructure. While VW has partnered with Electrify America to support an extensive charging network, it’s worth considering if convenient charging options are available near your home, workplace, or along your typical travel routes. For those who primarily drive in urban or suburban areas, charging should be relatively easy, but long-distance travelers may need to plan their routes around available charging stations.
Lastly, the ID. Buzz’s size, while ideal for interior space, may not be the best fit for those who frequently park in tight city spaces. Though it’s compact compared to some SUVs, the ID. Buzz is larger than a typical sedan, so drivers should be prepared for the feel of driving and parking a minivan-sized vehicle.
Image: Volkswagen
The Verdict: Is the ID. Buzz Worth It?
In a crowded EV market, the VW ID. Buzz manages to stand out, thanks to its nostalgic charm, spacious and tech-forward design, and reliable electric performance. For those drawn to the idea of a family-friendly, eco-conscious vehicle that brings a little fun and personality to the road, the ID. Buzz is a solid choice.
It’s particularly appealing for families and adventure-lovers looking to combine electric efficiency with practical space, or for any driver who wants an EV that feels different from the average sedan or crossover. With a unique identity and solid engineering, the ID. Buzz looks to be a smart choice for those who are ready to embrace the electric future without sacrificing personality or utility.
So, should you buy the ID. Buzz? If you value style, space, and sustainability, and are ready to step into the next generation of electric vehicles, the ID. Buzz is likely to be a fun and reliable addition to your driveway.