The Volkswagen ID.Buzz debuted as a concept car in 2017, with Volkswagen promising that a production version was on the way and would be a pivotal model in the ID range. Even the most optimistic enthusiasts doubted that the Buzz would transition from concept to reality without major design changes. Fortunately, those doubts were proved wrong. The ID.Buzz retains its unique character, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to switch to zero-emission driving.

Performance

The ID.Buzz shares its platform with the ID.3 and ID.4, giving it a surprisingly car-like driving experience. Thanks to its rear-wheel drive setup, it handles with unexpected sharpness for a van-like vehicle and stays composed on winding roads. While it's not exactly built for sporty driving, it delivers a decent amount of fun. Most versions, except for the GTX, feature a 204bhp electric motor powering the rear wheels.

Even though the ID.Buzz is quite large, it handles urban environments with ease. The immediate power response makes merging into traffic and accelerating a cinch, and the tight turning radius aids in manoeuvrability. Its size is complemented by excellent visibility, making parking less daunting.

For brake regeneration, the ID.Buzz includes a ‘B’ mode to increase regenerative braking. However, it doesn’t offer a fully one-pedal driving experience, so you’ll still need to use the brake pedal to come to a complete stop.

Range and Charging

The ID.Buzz is equipped with a 77kWh battery pack connected to a rear axle-mounted electric motor, providing a reasonable range of up to 417km on a single charge.

Charging is quick and convenient, as the Buzz supports up to 170kW on DC fast chargers, allowing it to go from 10% to 80% charge in just 30 minutes. Additionally, the ID.Buzz can charge at up to 11kW using an AC point, making it versatile for both home and public charging stations. This flexibility ensures you can easily keep your Buzz powered up, whether you’re on a long trip or just running errands around town.

Design and Interior

Volkswagen has struck a perfect balance between retro aesthetics and modern design with the ID.Buzz. The exterior pays homage to the classic Microbus with its boxy shape and large VW emblem.

The modern twist on the classic design continues inside the ID.Buzz, offering plenty of space and colourful surfaces that match the exterior colour, especially with the two-tone paint options. While the standard cabin features an all-black finish, more suited to the Cargo van version, the two-tone interior adds a wood effect finish across the dashboard, enhancing the space’s character. Ambient lighting further boosts the interior's appeal.

A 10.0-inch display comes standard, but you can choose a larger 12.0-inch screen for more digital real estate. The use of sustainable materials throughout the cabin aligns with the vehicle's eco-friendly ethos. The seating is comfortable, and the flexible interior layout can be tailored for families, road trips, or even a mobile office setup.

In the rear, the sliding bench seat can be adjusted to either expand the already generous boot space or increase legroom when pulled forward. The seats also recline for added comfort. While there are USB ports in the doors, the sliding doors mean there are no air vents or electric windows in the rear.

The boot space is exceptionally spacious and outshines any competitor. With 1,121 litres of space, and up to 2,205 litres with the seats down, no other car comes close. Folding the rear seats down, with the optional raised removable floor, creates a vast flat space, perfect for loading even more items.

Cost Considerations

There are four trim levels to choose from for the ID Buzz: Life, Style, and GTX. The Life trim is well-equipped, featuring 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, climate control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel, all at a newly readjusted price of €51,395.

For a little extra, we suggest upgrading to the Style trim. It includes electrically-operated side doors with opening windows, larger 20-inch wheels, a powered tailgate, matrix LED headlights, and the versatile Multi-flex boot board.

Although pricing for the GTX model hasn't been released yet, it's expected to be quite expensive. Unless you need four-wheel drive or greater towing capacity, the high cost might be difficult to justify, even with the added perks like a panoramic glass roof and 21-inch alloy wheels.

Conclusion

We’re big fans of the ID.Buzz. It comes with a reasonable price tag and it offers far more versatility and practicality than similarly priced SUVs. It's a bit disappointing that VW couldn’t offer a bit more range, especially since this is the kind of family car you’ll want to use constantly, particularly for longer trips where its comfort, refinement, and spaciousness really shine. Despite this, the ID.Buzz stands out with its decent charging speeds, expansive interior, and an irresistible charm that no SUV can match.