Volkswagen ID. Buzz 2023 review

The computer industry uses the term ‘vapourware’ to describe a product that has been announced, yet will seemingly never be delivered.

Given that Volkswagen revealed a concept version of the reborn Type 2 Microbus in 2001, some questioned if the real thing would ever arrive. However, after two decades and several other teasers, the all-electric ID. Buzz is finally here. Was it worth the wait?

On looks alone, Volkswagen has created a hit. Oozing retro charm, especially with optional two-tone paintwork, the ID. Buzz generates an incredible amount of attention and goodwill on the road. Be prepared for questions in car parks, plus people wanting selfies with this modern classic-in-waiting. 

Summer of love

Although it’s shaped like a van (there is a Cargo version available), the ID. Buzz MPV is actually more conventional. It shares a platform with Volkswagen’s electric car range, and has a 77kWh battery powering a 204hp motor on the rear axle. More powerful versions with all-wheel drive are promised for the future. 

In the fancier ID. Buzz Style version, as tested here, the official figures suggest a battery range of 255 miles. However, freezing January temperatures saw this drop instantly to 190 miles.

At least the Volkswagen can charge at speeds of up to 170kW, replenishing its battery to 80 percent capacity in 30 minutes. Plans for cruising the country in a summer of love will need to factor in plenty of charging stops. 

Doors and drawers

Until a seven-seat version arrives later this year, the ID. Buzz is strictly a five-seat MPV. The back bench is disappointingly conventional, splitting and folding, but without the ability to remove individual seats.

The sliding rear doors are a massive bonus, though, and a reminder of why MPVs can beat SUVs for practicality. USB charging points and storage cubbies are dotted around the cabin, too. 

The bonus of only having five seats is a boot that can be accurately described as ‘cavernous’. It holds 1,121 litres with the rear seats up, and boasts a clever split-level floor in Style trim. This comes with neat drawers beneath the load area, which are perfect for storing charging cables. Compared to an equivalent electric SUV, the ID. Buzz comes up trumps for luggage space. 

Seeing the light

In the front, the ID. Buzz has a minimalist design, with most functions controlled through a central infotainment screen. Like in many of its VW peers, this is a frustrating process, although there are buttons beneath to quickly access certain settings. A vast amount of natural light helps the interior feel even more accommodating.

Big windows help with placing the ID. Buzz on the road, as its 2.2-metre width requires your attention. The rest of the driving experience is smooth sailing, with instant torque from the electric motor and light, accurate steering.

Optional 21-inch alloy wheels made the ride feel a little unsettled on our test car, but calming comfort is the overall vibe.

Air-cooled cool

Somewhat less relaxing are ID. Buzz prices. The entry-level Life version starts from £57,115, with the Style at £61,915. Including options, our Buzz came in at an eye-watering £69,265, which feels like an awful lot of money for a five-seat MPV. 

In practical terms, the biggest threat to the ID. Buzz comes from within. The Volkswagen Multivan offers a more useful interior (including seven seats) and is cheaper to buy. It may lack an electric drivetrain, but does come with a plug-in hybrid option. 

Still, for those who love the style and image of classic air-cooled VWs, only the ID. Buzz will do. Even with the limitations of this launch version, Volkswagen will have no problem finding customers, such is the strength of feeling towards it. In a head versus heart battle, nostalgia is always likely to win, especially after such a long wait.

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