Test drive Volkswagen ID. Buzz, a brand new electric car with classic styling

After years of teasers and concept cars, Volkswagen has officially released its all-new ID. The Buzz electric car hit the US market and we ran with it. The 2025 VW ID has been available in Europe for over a year (with a shorter wheelbase). The Buzz will hit dealer showrooms next month with a starting price of $61,545 for the rear-wheel drive model and $69,545 for the all-wheel drive ID model. Hum. Even the base Pro S model is extremely well equipped, and the electric van offers either 282 horsepower (RWD) or 335 horsepower (AWD) and a range of 234 miles (RWD) or 231 miles (AWD).

Impressive list of standard ID Buzz features

Standard Volkswagen ID features. The Buzz Pro S includes three rows of seven-passenger seating, 20-inch wheels, dual power sliding side doors, a power liftgate, synthetic leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and tri-zone climate control. control. . Stepping up to Pro S Plus ($64,995) adds a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a head-up display and, on AWD models, a heated windshield and second-row captain’s chairs. The top-of-the-line 1st Edition ($66,995) gets a panoramic glass roof and a “flex board” that creates a flat cargo floor in the cargo area.

Volkswagen ID. Hype: Vintage style for a modern electric car

Between its relatively high price and low ID range. The Buzz doesn’t seem to offer as much value as other three-row EVs like the Kia EV9 (304 miles) or hybrid minivans like the Chrysler Pacific and Toyota Sienna. And if your priority is to reduce the time it takes to “refuel” ID. Buzz can be a challenge. However, the van has some features that other models can’t match, and that’s before you think about the cool styling that everyone who’s seen the ID had. Buzz smiled and waved as we rode him through the leaf-strewn streets of Ann Arbor, Michigan.

True functionality

First, the boxy design means there’s 146 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front row, more than the Kia EV9 (82), Toyota Sienna (101) or Chrysler Pacifica (141). It has even more than the Chevrolet Suburban (145) but is shorter than all competing vehicles. Translation: identifier. The Buzz is roomier inside and easier to maneuver and park. And you can feel it behind the ID. Buzz’s thick leather steering wheel. The van’s quick acceleration (0-60 takes around 6 seconds) and responsive, confident handling make driving downright fun.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz offers a place for everyone

Identifier. Buzz’s enormous interior space is also undeniable. This is felt from all three rows, with plenty of head, shoulder and legroom in every seat. The front row uses tall and upright seats that feel just as “vintage van” as the ID. Buzz’s appearance, and that’s not a bad thing. Everything from comfort to visibility enhances driver confidence on the road and in parking lots. The second-row seats slide fore and aft, making them easily adjustable to suit third-row legroom needs. Third-row passengers enjoy more space and their own USB-C ports.

Technologies beyond the electric powertrain

Identifier. Buzz’s technological pedigree is another advantage. All models include a 12.9-inch central touchscreen, 5.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, 30 available colors of interior lighting, 8 USB-C ports, 150W power, power 110 W. home-style power outlet and a full suite of driver assistance technologies (smart cruise control, lane keeping assist, pedestrian and cyclist detection, etc.). High-tech options include the aforementioned head-up display, traffic sign recognition and a 360-degree camera.

Will the “hype” last?

When Volkswagen ID. There will be a buzz in car showrooms next month, and you can bet there will be pent-up demand (and, of course, the associated sloppiness from dealers). But the challenge for most electric vehicles is maintaining strong demand after the initial launch excitement dies down. Well, this also ensures real profits for their parent companies. We’re not sure what Volkswagen’s timeline is for the latter, but we’re sure it’s an ID. The Buzz’s looks, functionality, driving dynamics and technological heritage will keep demand strong, even despite its high starting price and modest range.