A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4.4
Running Costs
3.7
Practicality
4.6
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for an electric vehicle that turns heads while keeping the family happy? The Volkswagen Id Buzz might be exactly what you’re after. This modern take on the iconic VW Microbus brings retro charm into the electric age, combining nostalgic styling with cutting-edge technology. It’s designed for families who want something different from the usual SUV crowd.
The Id Buzz stands out immediately with its distinctive two-tone paint and unmistakable silhouette that harks back to the original 1960s Microbus. Unlike conventional electric SUVs such as the Kia Sportage or Nissan Qashqai, this VW makes a bold style statement. Inside, you’ll find a spacious, airy cabin that maximises the benefits of electric vehicle packaging with a flat floor and flexible seating arrangements.
Driving the Id Buzz feels surprisingly refined and modern despite its retro appearance. The electric powertrain delivers smooth, silent acceleration that’s perfect for both city streets and motorway cruising. It handles with more composure than you might expect from such a tall vehicle. While it commands a premium price compared to traditional family cars, you’re getting distinctive styling, impressive practicality, and zero-emission driving that feels genuinely special every time you use it.
What's the Volkswagen Id Buzz Like to Drive?
The Volkswagen Id Buzz is powered by a single electric motor mounted at the rear, producing around 201 horsepower. This setup delivers 0-60 mph in approximately 10.2 seconds, which feels more than adequate given the vehicle’s family-focused nature. The instant torque delivery that comes with electric power makes overtaking and city driving feel effortless and smooth.
Where the Id Buzz truly excels is in its refinement and composure. The low centre of gravity, thanks to the floor-mounted battery pack, helps this tall electric MPV feel stable and secure through corners. The steering is light and precise, making parking surprisingly easy despite the vehicle’s size. Road noise is minimal, creating a calm and relaxing environment for passengers. The regenerative braking system works smoothly, allowing for one-pedal driving in most situations without feeling jerky or unnatural.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
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Power Output
201 bhp
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0-60 mph
10.2 seconds
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MPG Combined
- Boot Space
- 1,121 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Volkswagen Id Buzz?
Step inside the Id Buzz and you’re greeted by one of the most distinctive interiors in the electric vehicle market. The dashboard design is clean and minimalist, dominated by a large central touchscreen that controls most vehicle functions. The materials feel premium throughout, with a mix of recycled fabrics and modern plastics that suit the eco-friendly ethos. The panoramic glass roof creates an incredibly airy and bright cabin atmosphere.
The seating position is commanding yet comfortable, with excellent visibility in all directions thanks to the upright greenhouse design. The front seats offer good support for longer journeys, while the rear seats can accommodate three adults comfortably. Climate control is effective and quiet, maintaining comfortable temperatures without excessive noise. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some users find the touch-based climate controls less intuitive than traditional buttons and dials.
The Volkswagen Id Buzz succeeds in bringing the iconic Microbus concept into the electric age while delivering genuine family practicality. Its standout retro styling, spacious interior, and smooth electric drivetrain create a unique proposition in today’s market. The build quality feels solid and the technology integration is generally well executed, making it easy to live with day to day.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Volkswagen Id Buzz?
As an electric vehicle, the Id Buzz offers compelling running costs once you factor in the savings on fuel and maintenance. Real-world range sits between 220-280 miles depending on conditions, which translates to home charging costs of around £8-12 for a full charge. Public rapid charging can add £30-40 for a 10-80% top-up, but the generous range means you won’t need to charge frequently for most daily use.
The initial purchase price is substantial, with new models starting around £57,000. However, the Id Buzz benefits from lower benefit-in-kind tax rates for company car users and potential government grants. Insurance costs are moderate for the class, though they’ll be higher than conventional petrol equivalents. Servicing requirements are minimal thanks to the simple electric drivetrain, with car finance options helping to spread the initial cost and make monthly budgets more manageable.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Volkswagen Id Buzz
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Mercedes EQV
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BMW iX3
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £57,000 | £71,000 | £51,000 |
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Performance
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| Power | 201 bhp | 201 bhp | 286 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 10.2 seconds | 10.1 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
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Running Costs
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 1,121 litres | 1,030 litres | 510 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Retro styling, Panoramic roof, Flexible seating | Premium luxury, Executive comfort, Commercial heritage | Performance focus, BMW driving dynamics, Rapid charging |
Volkswagen Id Buzz Practicality & Boot Space
The Id Buzz is genuinely impressive when it comes to practical family use. The 1,121-litre boot space is cavernous, easily accommodating holiday luggage, shopping trips, or sports equipment for the whole family. The rear seats can be removed entirely or configured in various ways to maximise cargo space when needed. Interior storage solutions include multiple cup holders, door pockets, and clever cubby holes throughout the cabin.
Where the Id Buzz really shines is in passenger accommodation. The sliding rear doors make access easy in tight parking spaces, while the high roofline means even tall adults can sit comfortably. The flat floor design maximises interior space and makes it easier to move around inside. For families considering the move from traditional used Volkswagen cars, the Id Buzz offers a compelling blend of space, style, and environmental benefits that’s hard to match in the conventional car market.
We absolutely love our Id Buzz! It’s like driving a piece of art that happens to be incredibly practical. The kids love the space and the sliding doors, while we appreciate how smooth and quiet it is. Charging at home is so convenient and the range easily covers our weekly needs.
The Volkswagen Id Buzz stands out as one of the most characterful electric vehicles available today. It successfully modernises the classic Microbus concept while delivering impressive practicality, refinement, and zero-emission driving. The spacious interior, distinctive styling, and smooth electric performance make every journey feel special, whether it’s the school run or a family holiday.
You choose the Id Buzz because you want an electric vehicle that’s genuinely different from the SUV mainstream. Its combination of retro charm, modern technology, and family-friendly practicality creates a unique ownership experience. While the premium pricing means it’s not for everyone, those who appreciate its distinctive character and environmental benefits will find it hard to resist. For families ready to embrace electric driving with style, the Id Buzz represents a compelling and memorable choice.
