Driving the VW ID. Buzz: A Celebration of Retro Futurism
This week, we had the pleasure of driving the new VW ID. Buzz, and it was an experience that turned heads wherever we went. The attention was almost universally positive, with many people expressing admiration for its unique design. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in and find out.
Exterior Design: A Nod to the Past
The ID. Buzz boasts a retro-futuristic design that’s instantly recognizable as a modern interpretation of the classic VW Microbus. The new model is significantly larger than its predecessor, measuring over 2 feet longer and 10 inches wider. Despite its size, the ID. Buzz doesn’t feel massive, thanks to its clever packaging and proportionate design.
The front features a massive VW logo, a waterfall-style hood, and large windshield, giving it a friendly face that invites smiles. LED and adaptive front headlights add a cheerful touch, while the ID. Buzz greets you with a light show as you approach. The profile showcases an exceptionally long wheelbase, tight front and rear overhangs, and dual sliding side doors that pay homage to the original Microbus design.
Interior: Spacious and Stylish
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by an interior that’s both charming and stylish. The ID. Buzz offers ample space, with a flat floor and generous legroom in the second row. The third row is suitable for smaller children and pets, though adults may find the headroom and legroom a bit tight.
The interior design is minimalist, with a light beige color scheme complemented by soft orange accents. The dashboard features a 5.3-inch digital display attached to the steering column, while a large 12.9-inch central infotainment display dominates the center console. Although the haptic controls took some getting used to, the overall interface is intuitive and feature-rich.
Driving Experience: Smooth and Quiet
The ID. Buzz is available as an electric vehicle only, with options for rear-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive. Our tester, a rear-wheel-drive model with 282 horsepower, delivered a smooth and quiet driving experience. With 413 lb-ft of torque, it accelerates quickly and silently, making it well-suited for daily driving.
The regenerative braking can feel a bit grabby at first, but it becomes more natural with time. The ride is smooth, thanks in part to the long wheelbase, and the steering is precise. While it’s not the most agile vehicle, it’s easy to maneuver and park.
Verdict: A Great EV Minivan
The VW ID. Buzz is a unique blend of retro charm and modern functionality. retro_futurism, retro_design, electric_vehicle, minivan_review
