2025 VW ID. Buzz Review: Car of the Year or Just a Gimmick?

Iconic Design and EV Transformation

• 💡 The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz revives the classic boxy bus shape with a modern, reimagined design, aiming to excite the EV market.
• 🎨 It features a classic 60s two-tone beach cruiser aesthetic, with a "California Dreaming Surfing USA" look in Mahi Green and Candy Apple White.
• 🚀 Functional corner air curtains and a sleek design help channel air, balancing the old-school identity with aerodynamic needs.

Performance and Battery Specifications

• ⚡ Powered by dual electric motors with Volkswagen's 4MOTION all-wheel drive, producing 335 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque.
• 🔋 It utilizes a 91 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering an estimated range of 231 miles.
• 💨 Acceleration is brisk, with 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, and it supports DC fast charging, reaching 80% battery in about 30 minutes.

Interior Space and Technology

• 🛋️ The interior boasts a spacious "dune" theme with sandy caramel and khaki white colors, featuring a low floor due to its EV platform.
• 📱 A 12.9-inch floating infotainment system controls most functions, including dual-zone climate and massage seats, though some controls are screen-dependent.
• 🔊 A Harman Kardon sound system is included, and the vehicle offers various apps, ambient lighting, and drive modes, including a Sport mode.

Seating, Cargo, and Practicality

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The ID. Buzz offers a three-row configuration with captain's chairs in the first two rows and upright seating in the third row.
• 📦 Cargo space is versatile, offering 19 cubic feet with the third row up, expanding to 76 cubic feet with the third row down, and a maximum of 146 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.
• ⚠️ A notable drawback at the $70,000 MSRP is the lack of a panoramic sunroof and narrow captain's chair armrests.

Driving Experience and Value Proposition

• 🛣️ The driving dynamics are praised for their natural throttle feel and low center of gravity, making it easy to drive, park, and maneuver in traffic.
• 🔊 Excellent sound-deadening minimizes wind and road noise, contributing to a comfortable ride.
• 🤔 The reviewer questions whether the ID. Buzz's unique styling and EV capabilities justify its $70,000 price tag, posing it as a potential Car of the Year or a gimmick.