Volkswagen ID.Buzz GTX 2025 Review
The Volkswagen ID.Buzz GTX is the sportiest version of the iconic electric van, and it’s a significant improvement over its predecessors. While it was initially expected to be unbearably firm, the GTX has managed to strike a balance between performance and ride quality.
Design and Features
The ID.Buzz GTX boasts a unique design with 21-inch ‘Townsville’ alloys, boomerang-shaped LED running lights, and a distinctive Mono Silver two-tone color option. The interior features black headlining, black ArtVelours microfleece seat fabric with red stitching, and a sports steering wheel with red baseball stitching. The GTX also comes with a range of standard features, including a 13-speaker Harman Kardon stereo with subwoofer, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a panoramic glass roof with ‘smart glass’ technology.
Performance
The GTX is powered by a 250kW electric motor, producing 545Nm of torque at the rear wheels and 134Nm at the front wheels. This results in a 0-100km/h time of 6.4 seconds, 1.5 seconds faster than the long-wheelbase Pro version. The GTX also features a rear-biased AWD system, providing excellent poise and precision when cornering. The regenerative braking is somewhat limited, with only one setting available.
Ride Quality
Despite initial concerns, the GTX’s ride quality is significantly better than the standard ID.Buzz Pro. The ‘sports’ suspension tuning has resulted in higher-quality dampers and other suspension components, rather than a stiffer ride. While it’s still not as plush as some electric SUV rivals, the GTX feels more sophisticated and dynamically cohesive on various surfaces.
Range and Efficiency
The GTX has a WLTP-rated range of 450km, similar to the long-wheelbase Pro version. During testing, the GTX averaged between 22.0 and 23.3kWh/100km, indicating a real-world range of approximately 369-391km. This suggests that the GTX can achieve close to its claimed range when driven normally.
Pricing and Value
The ID.Buzz GTX is priced at $109,990, with limited options available, including metallic paint ($1890), pearl-effect paint ($1890), and two-tone paint ($4090). Servicing costs are capped at $687 every 24 months/30,000km, with plans available for up to 10 years ($2250). Compared to other electric seven-seaters, the GTX is relatively competitive, with all-wheel-drive versions of the Kia EV9 priced between $107-121K.
Conclusion
The Volkswagen ID.Buzz GTX is a compelling option for those seeking a high-performance electric van. With its improved ride quality, superb handling, and strong performance, it’s the best people-carrying ID.Buzz yet. While it’s not perfect, the GTX offers excellent value for its price, making it a worthwhile consideration for those in the market for a premium electric vehicle.
