Volkswagen has added several sportier models to its electric ID range in recent weeks, but the ID. Buzz MPV seems the unlikeliest candidate for the GTX treatment.
Revealed at the annual media conference for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, the ID. Buzz GTX is described as the ‘most powerful series-production Bulli of all time’.
A 340hp output and 4Motion all-wheel drive are intended to make the retro-styled ID.Buzz more enjoyable to drive. Volkswagen says the performance upgrades will boost practicality, too.
Maximum lifestyle
A pair of electric motors provide the ID. Buzz GTX with its all-wheel drive layout. A combined total of 340hp means 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds, plus a top speed limited to 99mph.
Going faster probably wasn’t the biggest priority for ID. Buzz customers. However, being able to tow trailers weighing up to 1,800kg in the short-wheelbase model will certainly make a difference to many owners.
Volkswagen says the ID. Buzz GTX can tow boats, bikes or boat trailers. The standard-wheelbase GTX will be launched with a 79kWh battery, while the long-wheelbase version has an 86kWh power pack.
Sportier styling
There is no official range figure for the ID. Buzz GTX yet, or details on how quickly towing an 1,800kg trailer will drain the battery. However, when connected to the fastest compatible charging device, replenishing the battery from 10-80 percent will take 26 minutes.
Exterior changes to the GTX include a redesigned front bumper with integrated daytime running lights, plus some trademark Volkswagen honeycomb trim. Cherry Red is an exclusive colour for the GTX, and can be combined with a two-tone finish.
On the inside, the now familiar Volkswagen GTX theme continues. The electric seats are finished in ArtVelours upholstery with red stitching and piping. The headlining of the ID. Buzz is black, with buyers of the long-wheelbase version able to add a panoramic sunroof.
Volkswagen has increased the size of the infotainment touchscreen to 12.9 inches, also adding a new processor for a more responsive display. ChatGPT is included to aid the ‘IDA’ voice assistant with answering any questions.
Buzzing with options
The short-wheelbase version of the ID. Buzz GTX comes with five seats as standard, or you can go for a six-seat version with two rows of two rear seats.
At launch, the long-wheelbase GTX also comes in five- or six-seat configurations, but a seven-seater model will join the range in the future.
Volkswagen has yet to announce prices for the ID. Buzz GTX, but plans to release more information when it begins accepting orders for the electric MPV this summer.
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