The Volkswagen ID.Buzz has made a significant impact since its announcement in 2017. It stands out as one of the most eye-catching new vehicles, whether people realize it's electric or not. This finalist for Green Car Reports' Best Car To Buy 2025 offers a unique blend of retro and modern design.

Uncover the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz's Transformative Journey

Size and Power in U.S. Form

In the U.S. market, the ID.Buzz takes on a larger and more powerful stance. Measuring 195.4 inches long and with a 127.5-inch wheelbase, it offers a substantial presence. The single-motor rear-wheel-drive version delivers 282 hp, while the all-wheel-drive version with dual motors combines to produce 335 hp. This increased power gives it the ability to handle various driving conditions with ease.Not only is the power impressive, but the battery pack also plays a crucial role. With a 91-kwh (86-kwh usable) battery, it provides up to 234 miles of EPA range. Charging is made convenient with a 10-80% charge achievable in as little as 26 minutes. This ensures that road trips are less of a hassle and more of an enjoyable experience.

Retro vs. Modern Design

VW struck a smart balance between retro and modern for the ID.Buzz. From the first glance, it's a smile-maker and nostalgia machine. The face borrows from the original '50s and '60s air-cooled vans, with their two-tone looks, giving it a distinct character. However, spending more time inside and around the vehicle reveals a deeper appreciation.Inside, it's thoroughly modern with a quiet, pleasant-riding experience. The reasonably nimble nature for a van makes it easy to maneuver in various situations. It doesn't compromise on comfort or functionality for the sake of cuteness, unlike the VW New Beetle. The side profile and package itself speak of pragmatic Eurovan evolution.

Real-World Driving Experience

Our initial real-world driving results show that the ID.Buzz can exceed the EPA ratings with a light load and mild weather. While it may not keep up with sporty electric crossovers in terms of speed, its 6.0-second 0-60 mph time in dual-motor form is not sluggish. The quiet, well-damped heft gives it a smooth ride.Inside, there is a lot of flexibility with great seats sized and contoured for adults. However, a closer examination reveals some packaging issues. The tall console between the front seats can be lifted out, and the electrochromic glass roof is a nice touch. But the back seat lacks storage for odds and ends, and the lack of true fold-flat third-row seats is a drawback compared to gasoline minivans or the Lucid Gravity.

Price and Market Position

The ID.Buzz starts at $61,545, including the $1,550 destination fee, and ranges up to $71,545 in AWD form for the top 1st Edition. This price point has raised questions about its market positioning. Based on the same Modular Electric Toolkit (MEB) architecture as the ID.4, it seems like a missed opportunity to offer a more affordable model.VW's transition to EVs is comparable to the shift from air-cooled to water-cooled vehicles. The ID.Buzz could have been a $45,000 model with a wide range of VW accessories and conversions. Instead, it's marketed as a luxury niche vehicle among rivals like the Rivian R1S or loaded Kia EV9.

The Future of Electric Vans

As we look to the future, there are more electric vans on the way that offer greater flexibility. The ID.Buzz feels like a turning point in the EV market, challenging the shape of the future just like the original Bus symbolized the counterculture. It remains to be seen how it will fare against the other Best Car To Buy 2025 Finalists. Check back on Jan. 6 to find out.