Volkswagen ID. Buzz: A Retro-Futuristic Ride with a Few Bumps

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, a vehicle that’s been generating buzz for years, has finally arrived in the United States. This electric van seamlessly blends nostalgic design cues with cutting-edge technology, creating a truly unique and instantly recognizable vehicle. But its journey hasn’t been without its quirks, including a recall stemming from its very design.

The ID. Buzz is more than just a new car; it’s a statement. It evokes memories of the classic Volkswagen Transporter, also known as the Microbus, a symbol of freedom and adventure for generations. However, the ID. Buzz isn’t simply a retro throwback. Volkswagen has infused it with a modern electric powertrain, a futuristic interior, and advanced technology, making it a compelling option for drivers looking for a stylish and sustainable vehicle.

Before it even hit the roads, the ID. Buzz faced an unexpected challenge. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a recall due to an issue with the third-row seating. Specifically, if three passengers occupied the third-row bench, there weren’t enough seat belts for everyone. It turned out the rear seat was wide enough to accommodate three passengers, but Volkswagen initially equipped the EV with only two seat belts in that row.

Volkswagen notified dealers about the issue in April and planned to notify owners in June. This recall highlights the challenges of bringing a new vehicle to market, especially one with such a distinctive design. It underscores the importance of rigorous testing and attention to detail to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite this early hiccup, the ID. Buzz has garnered significant praise for its design. It recently won the World Car Design award for 2025, beating out the Kia EV3 and Toyota Land Cruiser. A panel of expert jurors from around the world recognized the ID. Buzz for its innovative and eye-catching design.

The ID. Buzz’s design draws heavily from the Volkswagen Transporter, capturing the spirit of the original Microbus while incorporating modern design elements. Its iconic silhouette, boxy shape, and large windows are instantly recognizable, but its electric powertrain and futuristic interior set it apart.

The BBC’s Top Gear praised the ID. Buzz for its unique character and its potential to disrupt the SUV market. They highlighted its distinctiveness, its departure from the traditional SUV template, and its fun factor. According to Top Gear, the ID. Buzz could rival popular full-size SUVs as an innovative electric family vehicle.

The ID. Buzz is available in five trims, with the entry-level Pro S trim starting at $59,995. The top-of-the-line 1st Edition with 4MOTION configuration costs $69,995. Because the ID. Buzz is manufactured outside the United States, it doesn’t qualify for the federal electric vehicle tax incentive of $7,500. This could be a significant factor for some buyers, as it increases the overall cost of the vehicle.

The base model 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro S produces 282 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in approximately 7.4 seconds. The base model electric van has an estimated driving range of 234 miles.

While the driving range may be sufficient for everyday commuting and errands, it might not be ideal for long road trips, especially in areas with limited charging infrastructure. This could be a concern for some drivers who require a vehicle with a longer range.

The ID. Buzz’s appeal is undeniable. It’s a vehicle that turns heads and sparks conversations. Its retro-futuristic design, electric powertrain, and spacious interior make it an attractive option for families and individuals looking for a unique and sustainable vehicle.

However, the ID. Buzz isn’t without its drawbacks. The recall, the limited driving range, and the lack of federal tax incentives could be deterrents for some buyers. Furthermore, its unconventional design may not appeal to everyone.

The ID. Buzz faces competition from other electric vehicles, including SUVs, sedans, and even other vans. Buyers will need to weigh the pros and cons of the ID. Buzz against its competitors to determine if it’s the right vehicle for them.

Whether the ID. Buzz will be a commercial success remains to be seen. But its innovative design, electric powertrain, and nostalgic appeal have already made it a standout vehicle in the automotive landscape. It represents a bold step forward for Volkswagen and a potential glimpse into the future of electric mobility.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is more than just a car; it’s a statement about individuality, sustainability, and the enduring appeal of classic design. Its arrival in the United States marks a new chapter in the story of Volkswagen and a potential shift in the way we think about electric vehicles.