Volkswagen ID. Buzz review

Pros: Iconic style, spacious cabin, refinement. 

 

Cons: Expensive, fiddly touchscreen controls. 

 

 

The ID.Buzz is a modern take on the brand's classic Microbus. It's easily one of the most cheerful cars on the road, making people smile wherever it goes. Measuring just over 4.7 metres in length, the ID.Buzz seats five inside, with seven-seat versions to join later. The boxy silhouette with wheels pushed out to the corners is instantly recognisable. ID.Buzz is sure to become a modern design classic. Alloy wheel sizes range from 19- to 21-inch, depending on model. There are two-tone paint options inspired by the original Microbus, including a range of bright colour options to amplify the VW's star power.

 

 

The ID.Buzz offers a spacious cabin with many practical features, including sliding doors and an extra large boot measuring over 1000 litres. The long wheelbase and high roof-line mean there is loads of legroom and headroom for passengers. The cabin design and quality of the materials is far nicer than many other van-based MPVs on the market. Beautiful two-tone interiors are available to match the exterior paint colour. There’s a lounge-like feel with loads of storage space, ideal for families on the go, including the “BuzzBox" removable centre console.

 

Like in other electric VWs, there’s a small digital display for the driver and large touchscreen (10- or 12-inch). Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto feature, as does wireless smartphone charging. The touchscreen is a bit fiddly to use - for example, the ventilation controls are accessed through the screen - but there’s no denying that this is one of the most stylish MPVs on the market right now. Other standard features include dual zone climate control, heated front seats, parking sensors, cruise control and lots of USB-C ports to charge devices.

 

 

The ID.Buzz is built on the same platform as Volkswagen’s other electric models like the ID.4 and powered by the Group’s familiar 77kWh battery with a range of up to 425 km (WLTP). There’s a 204hp motor powering the back wheels. The driving position is high just like a van and gives a great view out of the road ahead. Light controls and a single-speed automatic gearbox make the Buzz simple to drive. Despite its size, the Buzz is easy to place on the road too. Power delivery is smooth and relaxed with the 0-100km/h ‘sprint’ completed in 10.2 seconds. It’s definitely not underpowered but naturally this is a vehicle you drive at a leisurely pace. It’s an excellent cruiser offering good comfort and refinement, while also feeling secure and stable through bends.

 

AC charging is possible up to 11kW. DC fast charging is up to 135 kW so an 80% battery charge can be got in just 34 minutes.

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Pricing starts from €68,470 for the ID.Buzz Life, rising to €78,515 for the top-of-the-range ID.Buzz Max.

 

 

The Volkswagen ID.Buzz combines all the space and practicality of an MPV with modern electric power. It’s not cheap but it’s a beautifully designed car with a great quality interior and iconic style that will make you smile every day!