For decades, the Volkswagen van has held a special place in automotive history and popular culture. Synonymous with road trips, freedom, and a certain counter-culture spirit, the original VW bus is an icon. For enthusiasts and casual admirers alike, the promise of a modern, electric reimagining has been a long time coming. After years of anticipation, the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz has finally arrived in the United States, and I recently had the chance to spend a week behind the wheel of this much-talked-about vehicle. As someone with a history steeped in VW buses, from Vanagons to Eurovans, I was eager to see if this new electric van could capture the magic of its predecessors while offering a compelling vision for the future.
My expectations for electric vehicles (EVs) haven’t always been high. Often, they can feel somewhat sterile, focused purely on efficiency and technology at the expense of driving engagement. However, from the moment I slid into the driver’s seat of the ID. Buzz, my preconceptions began to shift. This isn’t just another EV; it’s an experience. The interior feels like a futuristic lounge, and out on the road, it’s surprisingly fun to drive – almost like piloting a spaceship, but in the best possible way. Even Gefen, a nineteen-year-old car aficionado with a stable of classic vehicles, including a temperamental-but-loved 1972 Saab Sonett, was impressed. “It’s just like your Eurovan,” he remarked after a ride, “except it actually runs.” For someone accustomed to vintage charm and occasional breakdowns, this was high praise indeed. It seems Volkswagen has tapped into the Fahrvergnügen spirit of earlier models, injecting a sense of driving pleasure into their electric van.
The design of The New Volkswagen Van is a masterclass in retro-futurism. It unmistakably evokes the classic VW bus, with its boxy silhouette, large windows, and optional two-tone paint job. However, it’s thoroughly modern in its execution. The LED lighting, aerodynamic refinements, and clean lines signal its electric heart. Inside, the ID. Buzz offers a spacious and versatile cabin with three rows of seating, making it suitable for families or anyone needing passenger and cargo room. While it shares the iconic shape of the original bus, the ID. Buzz is noticeably larger, offering more interior space and contemporary features. Options like a panoramic sunroof and all-wheel drive further enhance its appeal, blending vintage vibes with 21st-century amenities. It’s a clever balancing act that respects the heritage of the VW bus while firmly planting it in the electric age.
To truly test the mettle of this new Volkswagen van, what better way than a drag race? Perhaps not the typical reviewer’s approach, but in the spirit of “Top Gear” inspiration and teenage enthusiasm, a race was arranged against Gefen’s aforementioned Saab Sonett. Now, on paper, this was a wildly unfair contest. The ID. Buzz boasts a robust 282 horsepower and can launch from 0 to 60 mph in around six seconds. Gefen’s beloved Sonett, while charming, struggles to even reach 60 mph and produces a modest 65 horsepower. Yet, the spirit of competition and the contrast between old and new were irresistible. Lined up on a quiet stretch of road, the electric hum of the Buzz against the raspy growl of the Sonett, the race was on. Unsurprisingly, the ID. Buzz surged ahead, leaving the vintage Saab in its electric dust. The point wasn’t about outright speed, but to experience the immediate torque and effortless acceleration that define the electric driving experience – a stark contrast to the more deliberate pace of classic cars. Beyond the drag strip, the ID. Buzz handles confidently, with responsive steering and a comfortable ride, making it a pleasant vehicle for everyday driving.
To get a broader perspective on the new Volkswagen van, I sought out opinions from those deeply entrenched in the automotive world. First stop: Ray Magliozzi, of “Car Talk” fame. Ray, a long-time observer of the car scene, approached the Buzz with a healthy dose of skepticism. Initially, he found it “swanky” and was amused by features like the massage seats. However, upon experiencing its performance, even he grudgingly admitted, “This thing does fly, though.” His primary reservation, however, was the price. “Not for sixty-five thousand dollars,” he declared, expressing a preference for the simpler, more affordable classic VW buses of the 60s and early 70s. Next, a visit to a Boston Volkswagen dealership provided a different perspective. The general manager revealed strong demand for the ID. Buzz, anticipating selling hundreds, but lamented limited allocation from Volkswagen, expecting only around 48 vehicles initially. Finally, a conversation with John Hamill, an 84-year-old VW aficionado and owner of a VW bus “graveyard” in Vermont, offered perhaps the most heartwarming endorsement. John, who owns multiple Vanagons and has a deep love for classic VWs, took a ride in the Buzz and saw the lineage immediately. “He could see the bus in the bones,” despite its modern Toyota Sienna-like appearance. His positive reaction highlighted the ID. Buzz’s success in capturing the essence of the original VW bus, even for the most devoted purists.
One area where the new Volkswagen van faces scrutiny is its range. With an estimated range of 230-250 miles, it’s adequate for daily commutes and errands, but may require more planning for longer road trips, a traditional strength of VW vans. While sufficient for many, the range might be a limiting factor for those envisioning cross-country adventures without frequent charging stops. During my week with the Buzz, a minor practical issue arose – a sliding door became stuck open on a particularly cold day, leading to a “Little Miss Sunshine” moment of unintended open-air driving. While quickly resolved, it served as a reminder that even with advanced technology, real-world quirks can still emerge.
The price of the new Volkswagen van is undoubtedly a significant consideration. Starting around $60,000 and quickly climbing above $70,000 with options, it represents a substantial investment, especially when compared to the affordability of classic VW buses or even Gefen’s $2,900 Saab Sonett project car. For those drawn to the nostalgia and iconic design, and who value the electric drivetrain and modern features, the price might be justifiable. However, for budget-conscious buyers or those primarily seeking practicality, there might be more affordable minivan options available. The value proposition of the ID. Buzz ultimately hinges on individual priorities – balancing the desire for a stylish, electric vehicle with the financial commitment it requires.
In conclusion, the new Volkswagen van, the ID. Buzz, is more than just an electric vehicle; it’s a successful revival of an icon. It manages to capture the spirit and charm of the original VW bus while offering a thoroughly modern driving experience. It’s fun to drive, spacious, and head-turningly stylish. While the range and price point might give some potential buyers pause, the ID. Buzz delivers a unique and compelling package that is sure to resonate with both long-time VW enthusiasts and a new generation of drivers seeking a distinctive and electric van. It’s a bold step into the future, carrying the legacy of the past, and for many, it will undoubtedly be worth the hype.
