It’s impossible to overlook the Volkswagen ID.Buzz; particularly due to its distinctive two-toned exterior that echoes its famous predecessor from the ’50s and ’60s. However, this modern interpretation graces us in the 21st century as an all-electric vehicle.

Before the introduction of the LWB version, the ID.Buzz was primarily offered with five seats for family use (in Europe). However, this wasn’t sufficient. The launch of the ID.Buzz LWB addresses this issue. Here, "LWB" stands for ‘long wheelbase,’ which adds an extra 25 centimeters compared to the regular model. Consequently, it can accommodate seven genuine seating positions along with additional cargo space and enhanced driving range. Therefore, the new ID.Buzz LWB features a usable battery capacity of 86 kilowatt-hours (with a total of 91 kWh as per gross measurements) – gaining an advantage of 7 kilowatt-hours over the base model equipped with identical motors. While this increase may seem modest, every bit helps when it comes to extended journeys. Let’s revisit these details later. Now, let us get behind the steering wheel of this vehicle measuring 4.96 meters in length and embark on our journey towards the rural landscapes around Kortrijk in Western Flanders (Belgium).

Combi bus

Initiating this adventure merely requires pressing down on the brake pedal and shifting gears using the control behind the steering wheel; then we’re set to embark amid appreciative glances from those around us, drawn to the neo-retro charm of our compact vehicle. It’s tempting to flash a surfer’s salute just to revel in their admiration further. As part of our journey tonight, following a lively celebration where we’ll supply the music, my companions—three individuals who stowed away in the trunk—and I plan to rest upon air beds once festivities conclude.
In addition to myself, inside our snug transport, we’ve packed various essentials: suitcases, inflatables for bedding, camping gear such as sleeping bags, audio equipment including amplifiers and speakers, a substantial container holding numerous cords and microphones, plus even a disco ball! All these items neatly secure within reach under the open hatchback (which may include electric features). Beneath the optional retractable lid designed specifically for cable management and emergency supplies like first-aid kits and warning triangles, everything fits perfectly sans unfolding the cargo shade. However, due to limited space, microphone stands had to find room against the backrests instead.
Moreover, should one wish to utilize the side-hinged entryway at the rear end—which could also come equipped with power assistance—it simplifies accessing the farthest seating area since each individual seat folds flat toward the center aisle. This thoughtful design ensures convenience throughout your travels.

Holiday Atmosphere

From the driver’s seat positioned on the right, you're confronted with an extensive dashboard that seems boundless. This expanse offers little practical use. However, fortunately, there's a glove box situated ahead of the passenger, just above another storage space known as the glove compartment. Similar compartments can be found scattered around the interior of the vehicle. Additionally, close to the steering wheel, there's a slot designed specifically for smartphones, accompanied by two USB-C ports. Yet these elements become redundant should your smartphone support wireless charging since the console features an integrated induction charger instead. Furthermore, both the front-seat occupant and rear passengers have access to additional USB-C connections.
The car boasts comprehensive connectivity within a welcoming atmosphere, regardless of the predominantly plastic construction. To regulate light levels, the electrochromic panoramic sunroof allows you to adjust transparency simply by swiping across a touch-sensitive zone located on the ceiling liner; this feature adds a playful element to driving. Moreover, although insulation glass is offered as an extra cost option, it effectively isolates external noises such as those from intoxicated individuals, ensuring tranquility inside the cabin. Interestingly enough, even when idling, the engine remains virtually noiseless!

Tchiki boum

Could you picture the stereotypical scene of individuals swaying to tunes, meandering about in their emerald and ivory coach? This describes our experience during testing (despite none of us being true aficionados). The ID.Buzz fosters an atmosphere conducive to relaxed discovery. On highways too, the road feels transformed. Dominating the flow, cruising in the far-left lane comes naturally owing to the powerful 286 horsepower (210 kilowatts) propulsion unit at the back wheels. With a peak torque of 560 Newton-meters, accelerating becomes effortless; indeed, it reaches 100 kilometers per hour within just 7.9 seconds when pressed firmly down. The top speed caps off at 160 km/h.
However, the sheer size necessitates cautious navigation through curves and circles despite having a lower center of gravity aided—or perhaps hindered—by the hefty mass of the battery pack beneath. In essence, it’s akin to maneuvering something resembling a rectangular carton. Nonetheless, Volkswagen has refined its aerodynamic properties enough to make extended trips feasible, complemented effectively by an updated fuel-efficient variant within the VW ID lineup.

Traveller

In rural areas, achieving energy consumption under 19 kWh per 100 km is feasible. However, driving above 100 km/h typically increases this figure to about 23 kWh per 100 km. During our trip, we benefited from mild springlike temperatures, allowing us to aim for approximately 300 kilometers on highways and over 400 kilometers overall. Regardless of the season, one can usually expect to stop every two hours on the highway for rest periods; during favorable conditions, these stops might extend up to 2.5 hours or longer. Upon reaching a charging point, aligning the rear-right side of your vehicle with the plug becomes necessary. Although the peak charging rate reaches 200 kW, both the charger’s hardware and the onboard software determine the effective output—often settling between 125 kW. Consequently, plan ahead since a half-hour pause would be needed just to gain roughly 200 kilometers' worth of charge, assuming moderate winter weather. Additionally, vehicles may come equipped with optional features like heated backseats and windshield de-icing systems specifically designed for colder months.

Limited weight

Whether you're heading out camping or dropping off items at the recycling center, you can use an electric tow bar to pull a trailer up to 1000 kg due to its design. However, be cautious as adding passengers would increase the overall weight beyond 3.5 tonnes, which necessitates obtaining the proper driving license. There's also an important detail about the vehicle's capacity; although the permitted gross vehicle weight is limited to 3340 kg, so having seven rugby players along with their equipment in both the cabin and a 306-liter trunk isn’t feasible.
When folding all the seats flat, transforming your ID.Buzz into a mini-cargo van provides ample space—up to 2469 liters—to transport lighter goods but still falls short for large-scale moves. Its primary role remains a comfortable family vehicle rather than a utility truck. Inside, the focus leans towards enhancing daily commutes and recreational activities through features like seating comfort and mood lighting. Additionally, the detachable display serves well for navigating and managing entertainment needs via Bluetooth connection. Lastly, even though it has considerable dimensions, the tight-turning radius coupled with onboard camera systems significantly eases urban maneuvers such as parallel parking, assuming there’s enough clearance of around 5.5 meters available.

The Painful Price

The extended-wheelbase ID.Buzz is fantastic. It’s an enjoyable minivan both aesthetically and dynamically. With its 86kWh battery, it suggests potential for outings and journeys without significant limitations; however, during colder months, you might want to adjust your expectations somewhat. Starting at around €62,000 inclusive of VAT (which compares to €56,000 for the five-seat version with a 79kWh battery), our Belgian-market example in Pro trim equipped with every option—such as the infotainment package priced at €1,657, the comfort package at €3,091, additional features like the tow bar, sliding doors, and power liftgate costing €3,130, bi-color paint job, comprehensive driver assistance systems totaling €2,585, plus a fashionable interior adding up to €4,114 among others—came out to a staggering total of €85,722 (plus change)!
In France, anticipate paying roughly €58,400 for the seven-passenger Pro variant. Meanwhile, in Switzerland, the base figure for the Pro-trimmed long-wheelbase edition stands at approximately 71,000 Swiss francs. Over in Canada, this model approaches nearly 81,000 Canadian dollars. Quite something indeed!

(MH with Olivier Duquesne – Source: Volkswagen – Images: © Olivier Duquesne & Volkswagen)