2024 Volkswagen ID. BUZZ | First Look
For the latest Volkswagen ID.Buzz pricing and information:
https://www.kbb.com/volkswagen/id-buzz/
Introducing the ID.Buzz. After an almost 20 year hiatus, VW decides to bring back this icon to the US and electrify it. Inspired by the VW minibus, which looks like this, the ID.buzz has short overhangs, nice long wheelbase, these “air vents” on the d-pillar which is a nod to the original Microbus’ cooling slots, and a large illuminated VW badge on the front. Even with its boxy dimensions, it still has a drag coefficient of 0.29. The two tone paint gives it a retro vibe, the large 20 inch aerodynamic wheels give it some style, and the LED light treatment in the front and back give it some modern flare. Let’s sit back and gaze for a second.
The ID.Buzz that we’ll be getting here in the states will be the 3 row version which is almost 10 inches longer than that of the 2 row European version that debuted back in 2022, and will have more horsepower and a bigger battery. This bus rides on Volkswagen’s MEB platform with a low mounted battery pack that not only saves space, but also give it a low center of gravity. Like the original microbus, the powerplant is out back giving it standard rear wheel drive and has a 91 kWh battery and 282 hp, which is more than the 2-row euro spec bus’ 82 kWh battery and has 201 hp. Opting for available AWD with a dual motor setup in the 3 row ID.Buzz bumps up output to about 330 hp.
The ID.Buzz actually looks much larger in person, but doesn’t seem overwhelmingly huge which should be good when maneuvering around tight spots. It’s 192 inches long and it’s as wide as the 2-row VW Atlas, but stands 5 inches taller. All that to say the inside is plenty roomy. Seating for seven is standard, and available 2nd row captain’s chairs make seating for six. The high seating position up front gives drivers great visibility outward, and there’s standard 12-way power adjustable driver and passenger seats with memory settings, ventilation, and massage functions. Oh, and don’t forget these fun ‘Pause and Play’ brake and acceleration pedals.
Apart from the center console, there’s also a storage spot in the dash, a wireless charging slot next to the steering wheel, and 8 total usb-c outlets around the cabin including one near the rearview mirror, and on the passenger door. With a removable console and a flat floor, you and your friend can compare socks or whatever the kids are doing nowadays. But let’s see how a tall drink of water like myself fits in the other 2 rows.
2nd row occupants will also have a USB-C port on both sliding doors and a control switch that opens up a small square window which is a modern take on the classic sliding windows. It’s not the biggest window, but if your rear passengers want to adjust the temperature, those controls are located above the doors, and each row has their own dedicated air vents. But now, I know you’re dying to ask “what about cargo space”?
The second and third row provide some good flexibility when hauling people and cargo. The 3rd row can slide forward for more cargo space, and the flat floors help maximize cargo capacity. And for those who don’t even need that third row, the ID.Buzz has another trick up its sleeve.
Along with practicality, this EV wouldn’t be complete without some good, modern tech. There are 30 ambient light colors, outboard second row heated seats, 5.3-inch digital gauge cluster that displays important driving information, and a 12.9 inch touchscreen with wireless apple CarPlay and android auto.
Available features for the ID.Buzz include an electrochromatic sunroof, heated windshield, 14 speaker Harmon Kardon audio system, and that flexboard with 2 fabric storage bins.
Standard safety tech worth mentioning is Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive, which includes blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, lane assist, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, and additional features like 360 degree camera, head-up display, and park assist with remote parking.
I have to admit, the ID.Buzz has charm. From its many easter eggs to the functionality of the interior, you can tell a lot of thought went into reinventing this VW icon, and will definitely look to spark up some interest with older and younger buyers.
00:00 2024 Volkswagen ID. Buzz
0:35 Exterior
1:54 Powertrain
2:17 Charging and Range
2:45 Interior
5:08 Second and Third Row Space
6:55 Cargo space
8:30 Technology
