(TestMiles) — In an automotive world rapidly shifting gears towards electric mobility, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz emerges not just as a vehicle but as a statement. This electric marvel, reimagining the iconic Volkswagen T1 with a futuristic twist, is steering the conversation around electric vehicles (EVs) into new, uncharted territories. With an impressive range of up to 258 miles (415 km) on a single charge, the ID.Buzz is setting benchmarks that beg the question: Is the future of family travel electric?
Charging technology is at the heart of the EV revolution, and the ID.Buzz stands out with its ability to power up at speeds of up to 170kW (227 hp) at public charging stations, or more modestly at 11kW (14.7 hp) from AC points. This flexibility in charging ensures that the ID.Buzz can adapt to various user needs, proving its mettle in a real-world range test where it achieved 203 miles (327 km), hitting 80% of its advertised capacity at 2.7 miles (4.3 km) per kWh.
But what does this mean for potential buyers? With a retail price stretching from £59,035 to £63,835 (approximately $77,000 to $83,000), the ID.Buzz is positioned as a premium option in the EV market. However, through platforms like carwow, savings are available, making it a competitive option for those looking to invest in the future of clean mobility. For those considering the leap, monthly payments start at £515 (about $670), with pre-owned models beginning at £46,990 (around $61,000), offering a range of entry points for different budgets.
Safety is another cornerstone of the ID.Buzz’s appeal, boasting a five-star Euro NCAP rating that underscores its credentials as a family vehicle. This, combined with a spacious interior offering 1,121 liters (39.6 cubic feet) of boot space — dwarfing competitors — and a plethora of stowage options, sets a new standard in EV practicality.
Despite its van-like dimensions, the ID.Buzz drives with the agility of a much smaller car, thanks to a turning circle of just 11.1 meters (36.4 feet) and a rear-wheel-drive setup that enhances maneuverability and driving dynamics. Yet, it’s not without its criticisms. The infotainment system has faced backlash for being laggy, and the design choice to omit air vents and electric windows in the rear, a nod to its sliding door mechanism, has been noted as a potential drawback.
Underpinning all of this is the ID.Buzz’s all-electric powertrain, featuring a 77kWh battery that supports fast charging — allowing the vehicle to recharge from 10-80% in just half an hour. Yet, looming on the horizon is the 2025 road tax for electric vehicles, a development that future owners need to consider.
Despite these considerations, the ID.Buzz’s unique proposition lies not just in its technical specifications but in its ability to captivate. Its design eschews the prevalent SUV trend for a nostalgic yet innovative form factor that speaks to a growing desire for vehicles that offer more than just transportation — they offer an experience.
Launched onto roads in late 2022, the long-term reliability of the ID.Buzz remains to be fully assessed. However, its early reception suggests a bright future, with its blend of retro charm and cutting-edge technology appealing to a broad audience looking for sustainable, practical, and enjoyable family transport options.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz stands out as a beacon of what’s possible when innovation meets nostalgia. As it carves its path on the roads, it challenges us to rethink not just what we drive, but how we drive into the future.
