The Ultimate Nostalgia Trip: 2025 Volkswagen ID Buzz Review
My fascination with cars began before I could even speak. My mom recalls how I’d chase classic Volkswagens down the road and identify their distinctive air-cooled flat-4 sound from afar. The original Volkswagen Transporter, with its quirky design and two-tone paint, was particularly captivating. The wait for its modern revival was long, but the 2025 Volkswagen ID Buzz did not disappoint.
Volkswagen lent me a 2025 ID Buzz for a week, and I was thrilled to experience its charm firsthand. The test vehicle was a single-motor ID Buzz 1st Edition in Mahi Green and Candy White, priced at $67,045 including destination. This modern take on the classic VW bus boasts a rear-motor, rear-wheel-drive configuration, producing 282 horsepower – nearly six times that of its predecessors.
The ID Buzz’s electric range was impressive, exceeding the EPA’s 234-mile estimate. I achieved around 280 miles on a single charge in mixed Los Angeles driving conditions. Charging at up to 200 kW, it can go from 10% to 80% in about 26 minutes. While not exceptional, this is reasonable for its class.
A Joyful Driving Experience
The ID Buzz radiates happiness. Its presence turned heads, and pedestrians often smiled and inquired about it. The Electrochromic Smart Glass roof and light-colored Dune interior theme added to its appeal, making even charging stops feel luxurious.
The driving experience was a pleasant surprise. Despite its size, the ID Buzz handled twisty roads obediently and felt stable. The peppy electric motor made it eager to accelerate, even uphill. While not exhilarating, it was enjoyable to drive, with minimal body roll and great visibility.
Spacious Interior, Abundant Features
The ID Buzz offers vast interior space, accommodating up to seven passengers with ease. As a 6’8″ tall individual, I found the second and third rows surprisingly comfortable. The standard 12-way power heated and ventilated front seats were supple and supportive, with a pleasant massage function.
Some Shortcomings
While delightful to drive, the ID Buzz has some drawbacks. Volkswagen’s corporate EV features can be fussy, such as the touch-sensitive controls and lack of a physical sunshade for the glass roof. The dashboard feels cheap to the touch, and there aren’t many interior storage compartments.
Despite these issues, I fell in love with the ID Buzz. Its unique character and nostalgia factor set it apart from other three-row electric vehicles like the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9. If you’re considering one, I say go for it – it’s a true gem in Volkswagen’s lineup.
