When it comes to electrifying vehicles, Volkswagen ID. Buzz stands out as a nostalgic adventure that tugs at the heartstrings like no other model in the German automaker’s lineup. Beyond the skepticism and marketing efforts, the ID. Buzz represents a fusion of past and future – a mystery machine that captures the essence of flower power for our times. We had the opportunity to experience it in Copenhagen and extensively in the UK. Now, we will delve into all its details to give you a comprehensive review.

First Impressions – The Transformation from Prototype Disappointment to Production Marvel

Witnessing how the ID. Buzz evolved from its prototype stage to becoming a fledged production model is nothing of remarkable. While the initial version, which was partially camouflaged, left much to be desired in terms of quality and performance dynamics, Volkswagen has truly delivered on its promise by creating a product that is refined in every aspect. While paying homage to its ancestor—the 1950 T1 Beetle-based microbus—the ID. Buzz undergoes a metamorphosis with its motor strategically placed between its rear wheels.

Mechanics – Exploring the MEB Platform and Performance Statistics

The ID. Buzz proudly sits on top of the Volkswagen`s Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB) platform—an engineering marvel designed for electric vehicles. This advanced platform provides a foundation for delivering performance statistics while embracing sustainable mobility principles.

The Buzz model from Volkswagen offers powertrain and performance specifications as part of their ID car rollout. The available version comes with a 201bhp motor that is powered by a 77kWh battery pack. Initially, it focused on a seven-seater configuration, however, there are plans for additional releases including a long wheelbase version and 4Motion All Wheel Drive options. Looking ahead to 2025, Volkswagen has plans in store with the promise of a 340bhp variant and the potential for a GTX model with 400bhp signaling a future.

Driving Experience – Performance, Handling, and Driving Dynamics

While the ID. Buzz may not match the torque delivery found in some other high-end electric vehicles, it still offers an exceptional driving experience. Its weight and drag coefficient contribute to a speed of 90mph prioritizing flow over aggressive acceleration. With its wheelbase, calibrated suspension and responsive steering, it surprisingly maneuvers well even in urban environments. Despite its van appearance the ID. Buzz provides a ride thanks to its spring and damper calibration.

Interior Design – A Combination of Practicality and Futuristic Style

The interior design of the ID. Buzz is a mix of freshness and nostalgia. The materials used are sturdy and functional prioritizing practicality over luxury. Inside, the ambiance subtly reminds passengers that “this is an impressive people mover, not a private jet.” The dashboard floating touchscreen, despite some known issues with the VW`s system, offers features like Park Assist Plus to demonstrate the car’s capabilities in tight spaces. While the plastics feel durable, the overall interior design focuses on being practical.

Beyond looking good, this car excels in utility and practicality. It has plenty of cabin space and the rear seats can be adjusted individually to create cargo room when needed. The power-operated sliding doors make it easy to access the rear passenger area. By combining elements from the microbus with practicality, the ID. Buzz becomes an option for transporting people.

Prices

While it may not hold the title of the best electric microbus option on the market, there’s no denying its charm. Nevertheless, the starting price of £58k does raise some eyebrows limiting its accessibility mainly to those who are eager to embrace innovation early on. With 130,000 units planned per year starting in 2024, it remains uncertain whether this electrifying blast from the past will be able to meet the overwhelming demand.

2023 WV ID Buzz Video

2023 VW ID Buzz Media Gallery

If you are going to purchase one or the other, it is vital to know the differences between both drive systems.

The AWD is a relatively new system, but it is now the favorite of most drivers. Those who are interested in driving on rough surfaces need a 4WD system. Yet the shortcomings can affect if you are a novice to 4WD.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Four-wheel drive, or 4×4, is a vehicle drivetrain popularly used in rough SUVs and trucks. It is designed for wild, unpaved. Some of these are hard trucks, such as the Honda Ridgeline.

Simply put, a four-wheel drive is a system that directs the same amount of power to all the wheels without favoring any particular wheel. Receiving power from the drive shaft and engine implies that each wheel will rotate at the same velocity.

While this equal power distribution is ideal for rugged and uneven surfaces as it helps maintain optimal levels of traction, it can be a problem when you are driving on the road. It will make turning through tight roads inconvenient for you as these tires are no longer in sync. Since most 4WD systems are part-time – a type of drivetrain system in which you can switch actively between 4WD and 2WD, driving on well-paved highways and roads is not a problem.

Four-Wheel Drive: Part-Time vs Full-Time

Four-wheel drivetrain systems come in two variants, part-time 4WD and full-time 4WD.

Full-time 4WD is easy to understand. These cars don’t come with a two-wheel drive system. You only have to rely on a 4WD. This drivetrain system is mostly found in old trucks and SUVs. It is becoming obsolete, the reason being that no driver wants a car that is only limited to off-road driving conditions.

As it was said previously, part-time 4WD allows you to switch from full 4WD and 2WD. The 4WD mode is only turned on as you negotiate rough terrains like gravel, rock or mud, and as you hit the highway, you switch to 2WD.

Some parts of the vehicles have a four-wheel drive system with a transfer case. This consists of 4-low or 4-high. 4-High mode vectorizes and limits powers at the wheels. It allows you to travel quickly on soft ground.

4-low is used when you want maximum power. It is used when your vehicle is at low speed and your wheels need all the power to pass over something. For instance, if your car is stuck or you are going through rocks slowly, you can turn the 4-low mode on so your wheel receives maximum power.

Pros of 4WD

• Helps attain optimal traction on rugged and uneven terrains
• You can turn it on and off to control the fuel consumption

Cons of 4WD

• It is not flexible enough to be used in any type of condition
• Adds more weight to the vehicle and increases fuel consumption
• 4WD cars are expensive as most of the cost is associated with the production of these cars

All-Wheel Drive

Today, more and more cars are coming with an all-wheel drive system, from supercars to compact SUVs. It is the latest drivetrain system. This automated drivetrain system is considered more user-friendly as it does all the work for the driver.

Unlike 4WD, all-wheel drive systems send power to the wheels which need it the most. You can find AWD systems in nearly all body types from sedans and SUVs to minivans and coupes.

SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Pilot Honda have AWD standards in their upper-level trims. You can also get AWD in other variants by paying some additional amount. Many new drivers prefer this drivetrain system as it is totally automated and does not require any human input. AWD can sense which tire is losing traction and divert the power away from this wheel so it can regain traction with the surface.

AWD Pros

• Better grip and traction in all road conditions, whether it is off-road or on-road
• Offers better handling capabilities to cars
• No hassle of switching it on and off

AWD Cons

• Decreases fuel economy and adds weight to the vehicle
• Not ideal for extreme off-road conditions