Volkswagen bus fans, the wait is finally over. For decades, the iconic Vw Van has been a symbol of freedom, adventure, and a certain laid-back cool. Now, Volkswagen is bringing that spirit into the 21st century with the ID. Buzz, an all-electric reincarnation of the beloved classic. After years of anticipation and concepts, the electric VW van is hitting the roads, and we got a chance to take it for a spin.
The original article dives into the experience of test-driving the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, and it’s clear from the start this isn’t your grandpa’s van. It’s a modern electric vehicle (EV) packed with technology, yet it manages to capture the essence of the vintage VW bus that so many cherish. To truly understand the buzz around the Buzz, we need to look back at the legacy of the VW van and see how this new iteration measures up.
The author of the original piece, a self-proclaimed VW bus enthusiast, highlights the long wait for this electric version. Teased as far back as 2001, the electric VW van finally debuted in Europe in 2022, generating significant excitement. Now, a larger version is making its way to the United States, and the author was given a week to test drive it and share their impressions.
The vibrant two-tone lemon yellow color of the VW ID. Buzz, a modern interpretation of classic VW van aesthetics.
To make things interesting, the author enlisted the help of Gefen, a nineteen-year-old car enthusiast with a passion for classic vehicles, including a tangerine-colored 1972 Saab Sonett. This sets the stage for a fun comparison: old school versus new school, gasoline versus electric. Despite the author’s initial skepticism about EVs, the ID. Buzz quickly proves to be more than just another electric car.
Driving the Buzz is described as “a trip,” comparing it to “riding in a spaceship, but in a good way.” This immediately sets it apart from the often-sterile experience associated with some EVs. The author emphasizes the unexpected fun factor, something crucial for a vehicle carrying the VW bus legacy. Even Gefen, the classic car aficionado, admitted, “It’s just like your Eurovan, except it runs.” A humorous nod to the reliability issues sometimes associated with older VW vans, but also a testament to the familiar, comfortable feeling the Buzz evokes.
To further explore the ID. Buzz’s appeal, the author takes it on a series of mini-adventures, reminiscent of classic VW van road trips. One notable stop is Good News Garage, the former home of Tom and Ray Magliozzi, the legendary Click and Clack of NPR’s “Car Talk.” Ray Magliozzi’s reaction is insightful. While acknowledging the “swanky” nature of the new van and its impressive speed (“This thing does fly, though”), he expresses skepticism about the price tag and a preference for older VW buses from the late 60s and early 70s. This highlights a key point: the ID. Buzz is entering a market with loyal fans who have strong opinions about what makes a VW van great.
Another visit is to Boston Volkswagen, where the general manager expresses high hopes for the ID. Buzz, anticipating strong demand but limited supply. This points to the potential market success of the van, especially given the pent-up demand from VW bus enthusiasts. However, a minor mishap with a stuck sliding door during a cold day adds a touch of real-world experience, reminding us that even modern EVs can have quirks.
The spacious interior of the ID. Buzz, designed for modern comfort and reminiscent of classic VW bus versatility.
To test the range and get a true VW van perspective, the author drives the Buzz to John’s Car Corner in Vermont, a place described as a “VW-bus graveyard.” There, they meet John Hamill, an 84-year-old VW enthusiast who owns multiple Vanagons. John’s love for his Vanagons (“Every day, I wake up, and I think, I get to drive my Vanagon today, and I am happy”) speaks volumes about the emotional connection people have with these vehicles. His positive reaction to the ID. Buzz, despite its resemblance to a Toyota Sienna, is encouraging. He sees “the bus in the bones,” suggesting the ID. Buzz successfully captures the essence of the VW van even in a modern package.
The constant inquiries from people wanting to buy the Buzz wherever the author goes—parking lots, taco stands, even at home—further emphasize the strong public interest and desire for this electric VW van. It’s clear the ID. Buzz is turning heads and sparking conversations, tapping into a deep well of nostalgia and excitement.
Finally, the article culminates in a drag race between the ID. Buzz and Gefen’s Saab Sonett. This lighthearted stunt, inspired by “Top Gear” and “American Graffiti,” perfectly encapsulates the fun and slightly rebellious spirit often associated with car culture, and especially with the VW van. The race itself is comically lopsided, with the 282-horsepower electric Buzz easily outperforming the 65-horsepower Sonett. But the point isn’t about winning; it’s about the joy of driving and the shared experience.
The playful drag race setup, contrasting the modern electric VW ID. Buzz with the vintage charm of a Saab Sonett.
In conclusion, the VW ID. Buzz is more than just an electric minivan; it’s a successful revival of an icon. It blends modern EV technology with the soul of the classic VW van, offering a unique and appealing package. While the price point might be a barrier for some, the strong interest and positive reactions suggest that Volkswagen has created something special. The ID. Buzz isn’t just bringing back the VW van; it’s reinventing it for a new generation, ready to take on new adventures with the same spirit of freedom and fun that made the original a legend. For those who have been waiting for a true electric successor to the VW bus, the ID. Buzz seems poised to deliver, offering a nostalgic nod to the past while driving confidently into the future.
