The Long-Awaited Reintroduction of an Icon
The Volkswagen Bus is an icon. If you were born in the 60s or 70s, chances are good that you have fond memories of road-tripping in one of these boxy beauties. Now, Volkswagen is paying tribute to the original microbus with the all-new ID. Buzz. This modern take on a classic vehicle will surely be a hit with early adopters and technophiles alike. Here’s everything you need to know about the Volkswagen ID Buzz.
The Exterior The first thing you’ll notice about the ID.Buzz is its retro-inspired design. At the same time, the vehicle's overall shape remains true to the original microbus. The ID.Buzz features sleek, modern lines that give it a fresh look. The vehicle is also outfitted with LED headlights, taillights, and 20-inch alloy wheels. The European version will stick to the 5-seater shorter wheelbase, also used for cargo. The US version will receive the long-wheelbase passenger version.
The Interior The interior of the ID. Buzz is just as stylish as the exterior. The vehicle can seat up to eight passengers and comes standard with leatherette upholstery and heated front seats. Even more exciting, the seating can be restructured for an actual “living experience,” as pictured below. For an added touch of luxury, you can opt for massaging front seats and ambient lighting.
When it comes to technology, the ID. Buzz doesn’t disappoint. Standard features include a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, voice-activated controls, and wireless charging for your devices.
The Powertrain The ID. Buzz will be offered in two iterations. The base model will feature a single, rear-mounted electric motor rated at about 201 horsepower. A dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration with around 295 horsepower — similar to the current ID.4 — will also eventually join the lineup. This setup allows for all-wheel drive and gives the ID. Buzz a 0–60 time of just 5 seconds. When it comes to range, the ID. Buzz has an estimated range of 270 miles on a single charge. Once plugged into a DC fast charger, this vehicle should charge from low to 80% within 30 minutes.
Conclusion: If you’re looking for a modern take on a classic microbus, you’ll want to check out the all-new Volkswagen ID Buzz. The first US deliveries will not occur until 2024, so there will be a bit of waiting. The current pricing estimate places this vehicle just north of $40,000, which will rise based on available options.
As of this writing, Volkswagen has a backlog of 20,000 European orders, and they will be hard-pressed to meet this demand in 2023 out of their plant in Hanover, Germany. With its retro-inspired design, spacious interior, and impressive powertrain, the ID Buzz has everything you need for your next road trip — and then some!