For those who like their unorthodox future cars with one foot planted firmly in the past, there will be this 2025 VW ID BUZZ First Edition. I mean, there is a ton of ambiguity here since it could be some sort of electric thing that looks 1960s retro but is all modern in the performance department with groovy tech galore. That’s the VW ID BUZZ for you…a contemporary re-interpretation of the legendary VW Bus that will have people talking (largely about powertrain and price) and, if we’re lucky, represent where the auto-design tide is headed.
We dive deep into this electric minivan in our 2025 VW ID BUZZ review—from its specs and trims to how it ‘stacks up’ against competition. We’re also going to pose the million-dollar question: Was Volkswagen right to offer the ID BUZZ with an electric-only powertrain or should it have introduced a hybrid variant as well? So, join us as we investigate this retro-futuristic hipster-mobile.
Throwback Meets the Future
VW’s ID BUZZ is the electric reincarnation of the classic VW Bus (or VW Microbus). Remember the days when those vans were synonymous with road trips, peace signs, and the free-spirited vibe of the ’60s and ’70s? Well, the ID. BUZZ carries that legacy forward, albeit now it’s fully electric this time around, eco-friendly, and gadgeted up to eyeballs (and a whole lot safer and more reliable).
. The First Edition is a limited-run model that comes with some exclusive design touches and premium features to mark its special status.
Available Trims: Choose Your Vibe
The 2025 VW ID BUZZ comes in a few trims designed to cater to different tastes, needs, and budgets. Here’s a quick look at what’s on offer today:
- ID BUZZ First Edition: The special launch model featuring unique badging, exclusive paint options, premium interior touches, and enhanced tech features.
- ID BUZZ SE: The entry-level model for practical electric drive and strong performance.
- ID BUZZ SEL: Adds a few more creature comforts and additional tech upgrades.
- ID BUZZ SEL Premium: As the top-tier trim, this provides a level of luxury and technology to those who need or want all the bells and whistles.
Each trim is tailored to give you a different flavor of the ID BUZZ “experience”, whether you’re looking for this retro van to have it all or just the basics for a more budget-friendly option.
What’s the VW ID BUZZ Packing?
Let’s talk specs. The 2025 VW ID BUZZ First Edition is more than good looks, as it delivers some fairly respectable performance figures that make it a viable option for everyday driving, even if it’s not designed to win drag races against high-performance sports cars.
- Powertrain: Fully electric, featuring an electric motor that produces roughly 335 hp and around 430 lb-ft of torque.
- Battery: 111 kWh battery pack, offering an estimated range of approximately 234 miles on a full charge.
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in about 6.6 seconds (5.5 seconds for the AWD dual motor version)
- Charging: Supports DC fast charging up to 125 kW, which can add significant range in a short amount of time.
- Drivetrain: Available with FWD and AWD (dual motor)
- Interior Tech: Comes with a modern infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and a suite of driver assistance features (that we expect at this price level).
Who’s Giving VW a Run for Its Money?
The 2025 VW ID BUZZ faces stiff competition from several other electric and hybrid minivans on the market. Here’s how some of its main rivals compare with the ID.BUZZ:
Mercedes-Benz EQV
- +: A fully electric luxury van with a more refined interior and robust tech features.
- −: Comes with a heftier price tag and may lack the retro charm of the ID BUZZ.
Nissan e-NV200
- +: Known for its practicality and efficiency, making it a solid all-around choice.
- −: Way less stylish and much more utilitarian compared to the ID BUZZ.
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
- +: Offers a hybrid powertrain that combines fuel efficiency with a spacious interior, great for families.
- −: While practical, it doesn’t have the unique design or the more updated tech goodies of the ID BUZZ.
Volkswagen’s electric van distinguishes itself from the pack with its unmistakable fun-loving retro design. These competitors, while strong in their own right, either focus too much on luxury or practicality without capturing the unique spirit that the ID BUZZ brings to the table. Some more design first buyers will be sold on the VW’s looks alone, and we don’t blame them.
Should It Have Been Offered in Hybrid?
A question that often pops up in discussions about the Volkswagen ID BUZZ is whether it should have been offered in a hybrid form alongside the all-electric version. The all-electric drive is fairly impressive, but it surely will limit the vehicle’s appeal in areas where the charging infrastructure isn’t as robust. Which outside of California and a few major metro areas, is still most of America.
Compare the VW ID.BUZZ with some other fairly pricey EV peers, and many potential buyers will be left in doubt about their purchase. For instance, the new 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ offers an estimated 460 miles of range (on a single charge) while the 2025 Lucid Air Grand Touring offers an incredible range of 512 miles! With the VW’s range contrasted to some of its 2025 fully-electric peers, it becomes abundantly clear that the folks at Volkswagen fudged up here. When you think van, you often think road trip. Extended driving scenarios would be MUCH easier with a longer range than the measly 234 miles it offers.
If VW engineers can’t figure out how to improve the electric van’s range, then at least they need to offer this cool-looking van with a hybrid powertrain! This simple, but important change would have made the ID BUZZ much, MUCH more versatile, catering to those who want a taste of retro styling with a lot more range security on long journeys. Frankly, VW not offering a hybrid ID BUZZ cost them a boat-load of lost sales… my wife included.
The Real-World Experience: Driving the ID BUZZ
Getting behind the wheel of the 2025 VW ID BUZZ First Edition feels like taking a ride into the future with a classic twist. The driving experience is surprisingly smooth, thanks to its electric powertrain that delivers instant torque. The acceleration is pretty brisk and responsive enough to make merging onto highways a breeze. The handling is tuned for comfort and agility in urban settings, though the ride quality can feel a bit on the firm side when you’re cruising over rough city streets, like where I live.
Inside, the cabin is a blend of futuristic tech and a continuation of the retro styling cues. VW’s infotainment system here is modern and intuitive, although the screen size might leave some tech-savvy drivers wishing for a bit more screen real estate. For the most part, seating is comfortable with plenty of room for passengers, though taller folks might find rear legroom a bit snug. The overall experience is one of charm and functionality, even if a few minor issues (like a slightly firm ride and an occasionally underwhelming digital interface) crop up along the way.
Is the 2025 VW ID BUZZ Worth It?
The 2025 VW ID BUZZ First Edition offers a unique package that blends retro aesthetics with modern electric performance. It stands out in a crowded market mainly with the “cool factor” of its distinct nostalgic design. For those in the market for a vehicle that’s as much a retro statement piece as it is a practical mode of transportation, the ID BUZZ is definitely worth your time. It delivers on the promise of being fun, exclusive, and forward-thinking, while still paying homage to the past.
Some minor criticisms exist, though, such as a firm ride and digital interface quirks. Our major complaint remains centered on how VW needs to substantially increase its range and ideally add a separate hybrid variant altogether. If Volkswagen could do this, then this van would be a true home run.
What do y’all think of this EV van? Should the 2025 VW ID BUZZ have been offered in hybrid form in addition to the EV version? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s discuss this retro-futuristic grocery getter.
VW ID BUZZ Minivan Pictures:
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