Volkswagen's ID Buzz brings the iconic Microbus back to life, blending nostalgia with a modern flair. While the New Beetle lived in the shadow of its retro charm, the ID Buzz pushes the boundaries, despite a starting price of $61,545 that places it at the top of the minivan bracket. Its 234-mile range might leave some questioning its EV viability, but it nearly meets real-world expectations—a commendable 176 kW charging capability keeps it efficient.
Market Comparison:
- No true electric minivan competitors
- Closest rival: Chrysler's Pacifica Hybrid (32 miles EV range)
The ID Buzz is unique among electric three-row vehicles, like the Kia EV9 and Tesla Model X, offering unmatched cabin volume and passenger comfort.
Despite being shorter than conventional minivans, the Buzz maximizes width and height to provide substantial cabin space. Its design pays homage without being a direct retro clone, earning praise for its individuality and joyful vibes.
- Interior Highlights:
- Expansive headroom for all rows
- Elevated seating for a commanding road view
- Large side windows enhance visibility
Though it lacks features like Chrysler’s Stow 'n Go or Honda’s Magic Seats, the ID Buzz offers practicality. The second and third-row seats fold flat to form a continuous load floor, or the third row can be removed entirely—a nod to usability over complexity.
Despite minor quirks reminiscent of its ancestor's engine layout, the Buzz impresses with superior fundamentals and an entertaining drive. It challenges perceptions of what an electric minivan can be while delighting occupants and satisfying both pragmatists and enthusiasts.
The ID Buzz excels with a distinct blend of retro appeal and modern sensibilities, rivaling established offerings and marking its place as a dream ride for both the nostalgic and the new-age driver. It stands out in the 2025 Car of the Year lineup for its innovation, style, and pure driving pleasure.
This review is part of the 2025 Car of the Year evaluations, focusing on efficiency, design, safety, engineering, value, and performance for all new or revised models.
