Volkswagen has taken the automotive world by storm with the unveiling of the three-row ID. Buzz in Huntington Beach, California. Paying homage to the iconic Volkswagen Microbus, this electric vehicle has been tailored specifically for the North American market, combining retro design cues with cutting-edge EV technology and advanced driver assistance features.
Set to hit the roads in 2024, the ID. Buzz promises to be a practical, sustainable, and fun vehicle that marks a new era in the evolution of Volkswagen.
Embracing Nostalgia with Modern Innovation
The ID. Buzz brings back memories of the beloved Microbus, but this time with a futuristic twist. The exterior design retains the classic boxy shape, short overhangs, and an oversized illuminated VW logo, making it instantly recognizable as a Volkswagen.
The larger dimensions and a 127.5-inch wheelbase offer more interior space, providing room for up to seven passengers and versatile cargo capacity. The ID. Buzz’s coefficient of drag at 0.29 demonstrates impressive aerodynamics for a vehicle of this shape, contributing to its efficiency.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the ID. Buzz houses a rear-mounted powerplant as standard, providing impressive traction, performance, and agility. With a rear motor producing 282 horsepower, this electric marvel showcases a significant improvement over the European model, which debuted with 201 hp.
Additionally, the larger 91 kWh battery (gross) further extends its driving range, ensuring that drivers can embark on longer journeys with ease. All-wheel drive with about 330 hp and dual motors will also be available, enhancing the vehicle’s capability on various terrains.
A Cabin Designed for Comfort and Convenience
Inside, the ID. Buzz offers a seamless blend of nostalgia and modernity. Retro-inspired wood-optic dash elements evoke a sense of nostalgia for classic Volkswagen enthusiasts, while contemporary features abound. The three interior colour and trim choices provide a luxurious and customizable cabin experience.
Comfort reigns supreme with perforated leatherette seating, 12-way power driver and passenger seats with ventilation, massage, and memory functions, and a standard Climatronic® automatic climate control system.
Innovative Technology at Your Fingertips
The ID. Buzz is a tech-savvy vehicle designed for the digital age. The cockpit boasts two screens – a 5.3-inch ID. Cockpit behind the steering wheel and a 12.9-inch central infotainment display. These screens offer a fully connected experience, with standard wireless App-Connect, wireless charging, and multiple USB-C ports throughout the vehicle. The infotainment system has been upgraded to ensure simple, intuitive, and customizable operation, making connectivity and convenience a priority.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Volkswagen has left no stone unturned when it comes to safety. The ID. Buzz comes standard with IQ.DRIVE® driver assistance technology, featuring Level 2 ready capability. Lane centring, capacitive steering wheel, obstacle alert, dynamic road sign display, and other features contribute to a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. For added convenience, a head-up display, Park Assist with remote parking, and Area View are available to further enhance driver confidence and visibility.
All images in this article are courtesy of Volkswagen.
