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VW ID. Buzz Markups Hit $35,000 As Greedy Dealers Run Amuck

  • Volkswagen dealers have embraced ID. Buzz markups and one is seeking $35,000 over MSRP.
  • Other dealers are asking $5,000 to $10,000 over sticker, so it pays to shop around.
  • The ID. Buzz starts at $59,995 and has 282 hp as well as 234 miles of range.

The dam has burst on ID. Buzz markups as numerous dealers are now advertising the van over MSRP. The most egregious is Volkswagen San Bernardino, which has two 1st Editions listed for $107,668. Both carry a MSRP of $72,668 and that means they have a $35,000 markup.

That’s a ridiculous number as the ID. Buzz starts at $59,995. This means the markup is 58% of the price of the van itself.

Review: The VW ID. Buzz Is The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

Unfortunately, Volkswagen San Bernardino isn’t the only rotten apple as Maryland’s King Volkswagen has added a $10,000 markup to their 1st Edition. This means they’re looking to get $81,895 instead of the MSRP of $71,895.  

Illinois’ Larry Roesch Volkswagen has a slightly more modest $5,000 markup, which boosts the price of their van to $77,300. It’s a similar story at Emich Volkswagen of Boulder and Denver, which appears to have sold several vans with $5,000 markups.

 VW ID. Buzz Markups Hit $35,000 As Greedy Dealers Run Amuck

One of the more interesting models up for sale is a $76,295 ID. Buzz Pro S from Napleton’s Auto Park of Urbana, Illinois. While the Pro S starts at $59,995 this one features a Mystery Machine wrap from Scooby Doo. Is it worth the price of admission? Probably not, but at least you’re getting something unique for the elevated price tag.

Volkswagen of America began ID. Buzz deliveries last month and was initially able to keep a lid on markups – or at least blatantly advertised ones. Now that more dealers have vans in stock, markups are a common sight. This is interesting to note as Volkswagen warned against them.

Speaking of which, greedy dealers are helping to prove Volkswagen’s case for Scout’s direct to consumer model. Dealers were up in arms about this, but the massive markups show they can’t be trusted.

 VW ID. Buzz Markups Hit $35,000 As Greedy Dealers Run Amuck

US Dealer Slaps $20,000 Markup On VW ID. Buzz

  • A salesman told a customer they’d need to pay “between $10k–20k over sticker.”
  • Fortunately, most dealerships appear to be honoring the ID. Buzz’s original MSRP.
  • Surprisingly, some dealerships are even offering discounts on the all-electric van.

When we first heard that Volkswagen would limit availability of the new ID. Buzz to just one or two units per dealer at launch in the States—gradually increasing allocation in 2025—it didn’t take a crystal ball to predict that a few stealerships might see dollar signs. While many seem to be playing nice for now, there are always those bad apples who just can’t resist squeezing a little extra juice out of a supply pinch.

At least one VW dealership in the U.S. is testing the waters by slapping a hefty premium on the ID.Buzz 1st Edition, with reports of markups reaching as high as $20,000. Others appear to be adding more modest premiums, but the pattern is still enough to draw some attention.

The $20K Sticker Shock

A Redditor recently shared a screenshot of a text exchange with a VW salesperson named “Mike.” While the dealership’s location wasn’t disclosed, the interaction painted a clear picture of pricing antics. In the exchange, Mike provided an image of the ID. Buzz 1st Edition’s window sticker, confirming it as a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive model with a base MSRP of $65,495. Add in $1,500 for destination fees, a charging cable, a roadside assistance kit, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and the total climbs to $68,083. But that wasn’t the end of it.

Review: VW ID.Buzz Is The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

 US Dealer Slaps $20,000 Markup On VW ID. Buzz

The salesman went on to state that the dealership was asking “somewhere between $10k–20k over sticker” for the electric van. The customer pushed back, replying, “Volkswagen specifically stated that that’s not allowed.” Mike’s response? A curt “Thank you for your time,” effectively ending the conversation.

The exchange is a stark reminder of how some dealerships try to take advantage of the hype over a new model and how desperate they often are to maximize profits, even if it means going against the policies of car manufacturers. It’s not the first time a vehicle launch has been met with such tactics, and unfortunately, it won’t be the last.

 US Dealer Slaps $20,000 Markup On VW ID. Buzz
Photo No_Excuses_Yesterday / Reddit

This isn’t the only ID.Buzz 1st Edition hit with a markup. Emich VW in Denver, Colorado, is selling a 2025 model with all-wheel drive for $77,300, a $5,000 markup over its $72,300 MSRP. However, there’s also encouraging news for buyers willing to shop around.

Northampton Volkswagen in Massachusetts is selling an ID.Buzz 1st Edition with all-wheel drive for $69,493, representing a $2,934 discount from its MSRP. Portsmouth Volkswagen in Greenland, New Hampshire, also has one in stock with an asking price of $70,295, a $2,452 discount.

Shop Smart

The disparity in pricing for the ID. Buzz highlights the wild variations that can occur during a high-profile vehicle launch. While some dealerships can’t resist tacking on premiums, others are sticking to MSRP—or even offering discounts. For buyers, the key takeaway is clear: shop around, compare prices, and don’t be afraid to walk away and wait if needed. With supply set to improve in 2025, patience might just save you thousands.

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VW Spruces Up ID.Buzz Cargo With Factory Bodykit And Fake Windows

  • VW spices up the looks of the ID.Buzz Cargo with a bunch of optional accessories.
  • Options include a bodykit, 20-inch wheels, black badges, and glass-look panels.
  • Most of the options are also available for the passenger version of the ID.Buzz.

VW recently launched the GTX performance flagship trim of the ID.Buzz, but what about buyers of the Cargo version who want something sportier? The answer lies in an optional accessory package that dresses the LCV with a cool bodykit while dropping the bland panel-val looks with the help of fake windows.

At first, we thought that the pictured van was the work of an aftermarket company, but it turns out it is an option offered by VW Netherlands. The “glass-look panels” make the ID.Buzz Cargo look like the passenger version of the ID.Buzz with tinted windows. These don’t serve any functional purpose as they are applied on top of the body-colored panels of the LCV.

Review: VW ID.Buzz Is The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

Another interesting option is the Styling package, which includes a pronounced front splitter, protective side skirts, and a fancy rear spoiler. The bodykit can be optionally combined with the Red Accent package, adding a bit of color to the front bumper and the mirror caps, alongside a protector for the rear bumper.

VW also offers individual customization options, including different designs of 20-inch alloy wheels, black badges, high-gloss mirrors, and a black finish for the area around the bumper intakes. The latter makes a big difference in the design, looking more aggressive than the ID.Buzz GTX. Finally, the interior can be upgraded with a “hard-wearing and animal-friendly eco-leather” upholstery.

 VW Spruces Up ID.Buzz Cargo With Factory Bodykit And Fake Windows

Photos of the customized ID.Buzz Cargo had appeared online a few months ago, but the packages were just made available in the Netherlands. Setting aside the LCV-specific glass-look panels, the accessories are also available for the regular ID.Buzz.

In terms of powertrains, the VW ID.Buzz Cargo is available with three options. The single-motor RWD versions produce 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) and 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS) respectively, while the dual-motor AWD model is good for a GTX-matching 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS).

If you’re wondering about the cost of the visual upgrades, you’ll need €1,795 ($1,900) for the Styling package, €1,790 ($1,900) for the 20-inch alloy wheels, €695 ($740) for the glass-look panels, €495 ($520) for the Red Accent package, and €305 ($320) for the black badges.

Adding it all up, the sporty treatment will set you back €5,080 ($5,400), on top of the price of the VW ID.Buzz Cargo that starts from €39,990 ($42,500) in the Netherlands.

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VW Netherlands

VW Begins ID. Buzz Deliveries In The US, Keeps Lid On Dealer Markups

  • Volkswagen has delivered the first US-spec ID. Buzz to Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias.
  • The comedian is a noted Volkswagen collector and owns an assortment of classic vans.
  • While deliveries are just getting underway, it appears most dealers are avoiding markups.

The bus is back as Volkswagen has begun delivering the ID. Buzz in the United States. This has been years in the making and the first model was handed over to comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias by Volkswagen Group of America President and CEO Pablo Di Si.

The handover took place in California following a tour of Iglesias’ garage, which is full of Volkswagen vehicles and memorabilia. Iglesias has shown his collection a few times and he’s dubbed it the ‘Fluffy Volkswagen Museum’ as it includes a dizzying array of classic vans.

VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

That makes it fitting the comedian took delivery of the first ID. Buzz in America. As a refresher, the model starts at $59,995 and features a 91 kWh battery pack that provides 234 miles (377 km) of range. Buyers will also find a rear-mounted motor producing 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS) and 413 lb-ft (559 Nm) of torque.

Customers can also get a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS). It drops the range to 231 miles (372 km), while boosting the price to $67,995.

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In other ID. Buzz news, dealers appear to be holding the line on pricing as we haven’t seen obvious markups in the past few weeks. That could change as more dealers receive their vans, but it’s an encouraging development and one trend that Volkswagen undoubtedly wants to continue.

However, the reality on the ground might be slightly different as we found a 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz 1st Edition 4Motion listed on a third-party website for $77,385. That would be a $5,000 markup, but the dealer’s own website lists it at $72,385. This could be a fluke, but it pays to shop around, especially if your dealer is trying to add a markup.

All Your Burning VW ID.Buzz Questions Answered

  • We recently tested the all-new Volkswagen ID. Buzz electric minivan.
  • Before driving it, we asked what you wanted to know about it.
  • Today, you get the answers in written and video form.

It’s finally here. After more than two decades of teasers, Volkswagen is about to begin shipping production versions of the ID. Buzz to customers in America. In fact, we just returned from a trip to California to drive it. Before we did, we asked what you wanted to know about it. Today, we’re going to give you the answers.

This is a hugely important model for Volkswagen. It’s a flagship in more ways than one. Not only is it the most expensive vehicle it sells, but it’s the largest, most retro-styled, and newest. Volkswagen needs it to be a hit. Clearly, a lot of people are interested in it so without further ado, let’s get to the questions.

Is it truly on sale yet?

Yes and no. Technically, those who put in orders are already receiving updates. Some customers say that their cars are already built and now they’re just awaiting delivery. On the other hand, it’s not like you can rock up to your local VW dealer and get one today. Each VW dealer is only going to get one or two on average so have fun trying to find one.

Review: The VW ID.Buzz Is The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

How is the software?

 All Your Burning VW ID.Buzz Questions Answered

It’s improved! In fact, it’s about as snappy and easy on the eyes as any modern-day smartphone. That’s a huge upgrade over the previous infotainment system, however there are some odd choices here. For example, VW doesn’t seem to offer any way for drivers to actually see what their tire pressure is. In addition, the automaker seems determined to ignore customers and critics who point out how bad the haptic sliders are for climate control and volume.

What is the real-world range?

 All Your Burning VW ID.Buzz Questions Answered

I’m happy to report that, during our testing, the ID. Buzz actually indicated that it would meet or beat VW’s range estimates. That means one can expect to at least match VW’s claim of 230 or 234 miles of range depending on trim and motor layout.

What are the fast-charging times per trim?

 All Your Burning VW ID.Buzz Questions Answered

All VW ID. Buzz trims can charge at up to 200 kWh. That’s enough to allow the van to go from 10 percent to 80 percent in 26 minutes.

Can both rear rows of seats be removed easily?

 All Your Burning VW ID.Buzz Questions Answered

No. The third row does pop out quite quickly. Sadly, the second row is bolted down and so owners will need to break out some tools to remove it should they basically want to convert their ID. Buzz to a cargo van.

How is it from a noise, harshness, and vibration standpoint?

 All Your Burning VW ID.Buzz Questions Answered

Honestly, quite good. This vehicle is well-built and doesn’t feel cheaply put together. It does seem to be a little more jarring in the cabin than expected but it also doesn’t feel like it’s going to fall apart anytime soon. The suspension is simply firmer than in most minivans.

Does the ID. Buzz deliver on its price tag?

 All Your Burning VW ID.Buzz Questions Answered

If you’re someone with a bunch of free cash laying around who wants to relive the good old days, then absolutely. If you’re anyone else, probably not. Look, as I said in the full review, it’s absolutely the best vehicle on the market in terms of packaging. I hope other automakers recognize that and mimic it.

More: VW Dealers Will Only Get 1 Or 2 ID. Buzz Vans Each At Launch

That packaging though doesn’t make it worth this much cash. In fact, making it such a hardcore retro play is perhaps the biggest reason it doesn’t deliver. The original Type II bus would cost around $25,000 adjusted for inflation. This vehicle costs three times that and doesn’t come close to offering three times the value that the original did. Sure, being a much more modern vehicle, and an electric one at that, drives up costs, but if VW had managed to offer a more affordable version, it would certainly draw in a much wider audience.

 All Your Burning VW ID.Buzz Questions Answered
Photos Stephen Rivers for Carscoops

VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

Criticism of companies like Tesla that promise products only to delay or cancel them is fair and just. What’s odd, though, is that Volkswagen has teased a Type II or Bus return for over two decades without catching much flack for it. Now, in the year of our lord 2024, the ID. Buzz is about to end the long wait so many U.S. VW fans have faithfully dealt with. 

In fact, it’s ending that wait with a production version that looks very similar to multiple concept versions of the recent past and has excellent interior packaging. On the other side of the coin, though, there are concerns about this Microbus revival, especially regarding its $61,545 entry price and 234-mile range. 

To determine exactly what’s what, we traveled to San Francisco to pilot what Volkswagen hopes will be another counterculture icon. We drove it places where few ID. Buzz owners will go, we used it on the highway and even took it down Lombard Street. What we learned is that this is a vehicle that stands out but, as with most striking things these days, the cost for that novelty is high. 

QUICK FACTS
Model2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz
PowertrainSingle motor RWD / Dual motor AWD (4Motion)
Output RWD282 HP / 413 lb-ft
Output AWD335 HP / 413 lb-ft Rear + 109 lb-ft Front
Range234 Miles (RWD) / 231 (AWD)
Top Speed99 MPH Electronically Limited
Charging Speeds10-80% DC as fast as 26 minutes, up to 200kW
Cargo Capacity18.6 cu.ft behind 3rd row, 75.5 cu.ft behind 2nd row,

145.5 cu.ft behind 1st row
Towing Capacity2,600 lbs (RWD) / 3,500 lbs (AWD)
Curb Weight5,967 lbs (RWD) / 6,197 lbs (AWD)
Base Price$61,545
SWIPE
 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

On paper, the drivetrain of the ID. Buzz is a mixed bag. Every U.S.-bound version features a 91 kWh battery pack and can charge at up to 200 kW. For reference, that could, given the right charger, fill the battery from 10 percent to 80 percent in 26 minutes. Volkswagen will sell two versions starting with the RWD model that makes 282 horsepower (210 kW) and offers 234 miles (377 km) of range. For a full trim breakdown see our coverage here

An AWD version is also available with 230 miles of range but 335 horsepower (249 kW) to show for it. Those figures are a bit strange considering the relatively large battery pack size and the relatively low range estimate. For example, the Kia EV9 base model manages 231 miles (372 km) of estimated range with only a 76.1 kWh battery pack. The Rivian R1S features a 92.5 kWh battery and offers standard AWD and 270 miles of range, albeit for around $13,000 more than the ID. Buzz after tax incentives.

Clever Packaging

However, the ID. Buzz might be the most efficiently packaged vehicle on sale today. Despite taking up less space from front to back than a Chrysler Pacifica, this minivan offers more total interior volume, more second-row headroom, and more third-row legroom. Oh, and it can pull that same trick on just about everything a potential buyer might cross-shop with it. 

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

Third-row passengers have nine more inches of legroom than they’ll get in a Rivian R1S and 10 more inches than in a Kia EV9. Keep in mind too that both the Kia and Rivian are longer than the Volkswagen. I’m 6’6 and had boast-worthy amounts of legroom in the third row with the first and second rows set to where I would put them if I were sitting in them.

Third-row headroom is maybe the only thing missing from this vehicle and it’s not even worth complaining about in my opinion. Frankly, if other automakers aren’t trying to copy the packaging in the ID. Buzz, they’re truly missing the boat. It’s worth noting here too that this thing draws crowds quickly. Here’s a group of teenagers excited to see it at a local fishing spot.

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

Interior Quality

Beyond the packaging though this Volkswagen doesn’t feel as special as its exterior might have you believe. We tested both the RWD Pro S Plus and the Pro S Plus 4Motion and each suffered from a bevy of cheap-feeling plastic surfaces throughout. In most minivans, I’d say who cares, because kids are going to get in here and wreak havoc. In a vehicle that starts at $61,545 after destination, one that Volkswagen openly considers its new flagship, that seems like a huge letdown. 

For example, the vast majority of the door cards, including the upper-most sections are cheap unattractive plastic. That goes for most of the dash too including a section that sort of looks like faux wood but doesn’t feel like anything other than a cheap decal. 

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

In addition, for whatever reason, Volkswagen is still using a window control panel that requires one to select the front or rear windows before using the switches. Is it really that expensive or difficult to just put four separate window switches into the same space? 

Infotainment System

The infotainment system is a mixed bag too. Those who have used any late-model VW user interface will be happy to hear that this one is much faster than the ones found in some other offerings from this brand. In addition, most of the menus are easy to navigate and understand. VW also included a great LED light feature mid-way up the dash that travels left or right to indicate navigation directions. It’s a really intuitive use of light and sincerely helpful on the road.

At the same time, some features seem unfinished. For example, the system will allow you to reset tire pressure but if there is a place where it shows what the tire pressure is. 

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

On top of that, VW still insists on using capacitive sliders rather than real buttons, switches, and knobs for important functions like climate control and volume control. At least now there’s a jutted out section that allows one to sort-of grasp the screen to stead a hand while using these frustrating controls. Then there’s the driver information cluster which actually looks pretty good. It’s intuitive too but for a vehicle in this price range, it feels underwhelming and objectively pretty small. 

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

On the plus side, the seating itself is very comfortable and both Pro S Plus models we drove offered a lumbar massage function in the front row. The second-row seats get heat and climate controls near the roof on each side. As a point of clarification, the ID. Buzz comes with three climate zones, not four, so while there are two controls for climate in the second row they are always synced. What one person does will reflect on the other screen and vice versa. Surely this won’t spark sibling hijinks as kids fight over the temperature or fan speed. 

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

Interestingly, the ID. Buzz doesn’t have very many conventional cupholders. There is a pair for the driver and front passenger and then the rest are somewhat square. The second row doesn’t actually have any dedicated cupholders. Beyond that slight inconvenience, the rest of the storage situation in this Volkswagen is impressive. Each front door card features a trio of storage spaces, there is an inductive charging slot for the driver’s phone just to the right of the steering wheel. The front passenger has their own parcel shelf. 

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

Second-row passengers each get a large cubby space with a window control and USB charging ports in the door. They also have access to a pair of pockets on the backs of the front seats. Volkswagen also includes a cool modular storage bin that offers a flip-out cubby on one end and a slide-out drawer on the other. 

The top of it provides another place where one might sit a drink but even then it would be a bit awkward as the dividers aren’t round. What they are instead is useful. Each pops out to reveal a special use. One is a bottle opener and the other is an ice scraper. A latch system in the floor allows owners to move that bin forward to the front seats, back to the middle row, or even further back for third-row access. 

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Speaking of the third row, the leftmost passenger gets a pair of dedicated cupholders while the rightmost gets just one. Each outboard passenger benefits from a storage cubby and USB-C charging ports. Behind the third row, the storage wonders continue. 

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

Volkswagen included storage bins and a parcel shelf in each of the test vehicles. In total, buyers will have a little less than 11 cubic feet to play with back there if the third row is in place. What makes the Buzz special though is that the third row folds down flat with the parcel shelf (around a foot off of the floor) and is completely removable in just a few minutes. The second row isn’t easily removable but I’m willing to bet that with a few tools, it wouldn’t be too tough to rip out. 

In summation let me again say that the cabin is so well laid out that I hope other automakers follow suit. I also hope Volkswagen finds a way to improve the issues that diminish the spacious experience.

Drive Impressions

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Perhaps nothing about the Volkswagen ID. Buzz will impress a person more than the way it drives. Remember that the RWD version makes 282 horsepower which is right in line with the top performers in the minivan segment. What the VW has on all of its rivals though is an all-electric platform and that one feature means that it feels genuinely quick. Volkswagen claims that the RWD version will go from 0-60 mph in “about seven seconds,” a claim that’s totally believable after spending time behind its wheel. 

Jumping on the highway and getting up to speed felt far easier than in any of the competition. What’s maybe more interesting is how sharply the Buzz handles. The entire first hour or more of driving in this car was on California’s Shore Highway 1. It’s full of curves that would remind most of roads like Tail of the Dragon. In other words, a Golf R would be perfectly suited to a road like this. Somehow, the ID. Buzz didn’t feel out of its element. 

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

This minivan doesn’t pitch and roll the way one would expect. It’s sharp, easy to place, offers great steering feedback, great braking feedback, and honestly has more power than it needs. That’s especially true of the 335 horsepower AWD model which is almost comically quick out of the corners. 

On the downside, that sharpness ends up adding a bit of harshness to the ride quality that I didn’t expect either. Front-seat passengers don’t pick it up as readily but several individuals at this drive event reported the feeling of car sickness riding in the ID. Buzz after the drive. Keep in mind that these are the types of folks who spend countless hours in cars; they’re used to getting shuttled around without getting sick. On the freeway, that tendency to send impacts into the seats is diminished but not gone entirely. 

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

The tradeoffs continue though because the Buzz is probably the easiest modern three-row vehicle to drive in traffic. A tall driving position and the expansive windows make it incredibly easy to place this van whether that’s in narrow city streets or in tight parking spaces. Frankly, the ID. Buzz feels like a stellar city van for those who routinely transport lots of people or things. 

In terms of range, I’m happy to report that the ID. Buzz met or beat VW’s claims. In a mix of driving the least efficient reading we measured was 2.6 miles per kWh. That equates to about 230 miles of range. The RWD model actually hit 3 miles per kWh which is around 273 miles. Now, it’s important to note that results will vary, based on several factors but these figures are encouraging. At the same time, this certainly won’t be the road-tripping vehicle that the original was. Unless, of course, you happen to be the type of road tripper that doesn’t mind stopping for quite a while every 200 miles or so during your trip.

A Segment Of One

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

As of this writing, the ID. Buzz has its own space in the American car market. No other automaker sells a direct competitor, for now, that is. Kia is working on a rival called the PV5. Since details are sparse on when it’ll arrive, and what sort of battery, range, and price it’ll have let’s consider some cars that buyers might cross-shop with the ID. Buzz for now.

First, the Kia EV9, already mentioned a few times might be the most direct competitor for now. It offers three-row seating, a significantly lower base price ($56,395), and an all-electric drivetrain. While the base model only provides 215 horsepower, it matches the ID. Buzz 4Motion in terms of range, 230 miles. Kia also offers a long-range version with 201 horsepower and 304 miles of range for $60,695.

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

For $65,395, one can get a mid-trimmed EV9 with 280 miles of range and 379 horsepower. Those numbers make the ID. Buzz looks less enticing though it’s worth noting that the Volkswagen benefits from far better interior packaging. At the same time, the cabin in the Kia feels more premium.

Up against the four minivan brands in America, the ID. Buzz clearly has the lead when it comes to styling and interior space. Each of those potential rivals offers its own unique take on the segment and is worthy of consideration.

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That’s even more true since they’re all less expensive than the ID. Buzz, often by 10 percent or more of the VW’s base price. In addition, it’s worth noting that they’ll offer a far longer overall range between required stops for refueling.

Interestingly, Volkswagen also called out the Rivian R1S as a potential competitor during our time in California. The R1S is a three-row all-electric SUV but it has a starting price of $75,900 which is considerably more pricey than the VW. Importantly, though, the R1S is eligible for a $3,500 federal tax credit and that says nothing about state or energy company credits one might be eligible for. Again, as is going to be the case against just about anything, the ID. Buzz offers better interior space for people than the R1S.

Beyond that, the R1S looks like a clear winner, especially for those willing to pay anywhere near $70,000 for either vehicle. Not only does the tax incentive reduce the price for the Rivian, but buyers won’t have to worry about dealer markups. The specs for each vehicle back up the added value of the R1S too. It offers 258 miles of range, AWD, and 533 horsepower.

Final Thoughts

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

In the end, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz feels like a missed opportunity wrapped in nostalgia. It captures the charm and style of the original Type II, but it comes at a steep price—literally.

The original Bus was a cultural phenomenon not because it was fast or luxurious, but because it was affordable. VW dealers even say that themselves. In the ’60s, you could snag one for under $3,000—about $25,000 today. Imagine if Volkswagen could have launched the ID. Buzz at a comparable price. Modern safety, comfort features, and electrification understandably drive up costs, but three times that inflation-adjusted figure? That’s a tough pill to swallow.

Volkswagen claims there’s no “base model” for the ID. Buzz, but that’s exactly what it needs. With unnecessary luxury features and tech crammed in, it’s priced out of reach for many who would have been drawn to its quirky appeal. Could VW have stripped it down to a simpler, more accessible version at, say, $45,000? Probably. Would that have attracted the wider audience that made the original Bus a cultural icon? Absolutely.

 VW ID.Buzz Review: The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

To be fair, Volkswagen isn’t aiming for the same demographic as the original. The ID. Buzz is clearly pitched to well-heeled buyers more interested in EV status, trendy retro styling, and tech features than the freewheeling, counterculture spirit of the past. It’s no longer a people’s car but a niche luxury item. In that sense, it achieves what it set out to do—appeal to a new wave of eco-conscious, affluent consumers who care more about style than genuine counterculture substance.

So, what do they get for their $60k+? A practical and spacious minivan with decent power, no doubt. The ID. Buzz impresses with its clever packaging and roomy interior. It offers more legroom and cargo space than larger rivals like the Kia EV9 and Rivian R1S, despite being shorter. Thoughtful touches like the modular storage show VW thought about how people would actually use the space. Plus, its surprisingly sharp handling—especially on twisty roads—makes the Buzz more fun to drive than you’d expect from something this size.

But it comes with trade-offs. The sub-240-mile range is disappointing for an EV in this price bracket, the interior plastics feel cheap, and the infotainment system still struggles with usability. For a minivan at this cost, these compromises are hard to ignore.

Ultimately, the ID. Buzz feels like a missed opportunity. For those willing to shell out the cash, it’s a head-turning, super-practical EV with nostalgia baked into every curve. It’s sharp to drive and undeniably cool too. But for the masses that VW once captured with the original Bus, the ID. Buzz feels like an unattainable dream—proof that, somewhere along the way, Volkswagen traded its soul for a higher price tag.

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Image Credit: Stephen Rivers for Carscoops

Got Questions About The VW ID. Buzz? We’re Taking It For A Spin, So Ask Away!

  • The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is finally arriving in the U.S. after years of delays.
  • Starting at $59,995, it will be the most expensive model in VW’s lineup.
  • We’re about to drive it and are taking your questions.

After literally decades of teasing buyers with the promise of a modern “bus”, Volkswagen is about to put its ID. Buzz on sale in America. In fact, we’re about to have the opportunity to pilot it on public roads before dealers see the one or two that might arrive on their doorstep. Before we do, we’re asking you: what do you want to know about it?

Back in 2017, VW announced production of the ID. Buzz for 2022. Technically, that worked out as VW began selling it in Europe that year, but Americans have had to wait longer. Now, the wait is over, and the U.S. is about to see the ID. Buzz hit the streets, offering several configurations to choose from.

More: VW Dealers Preview Future Lineup, Tiguan Confirmed For LA Show

The base version comes standard with rear-wheel drive, 282 horsepower (210 kW), and just 234 miles (376 km) of range. Oh, and it’ll cost $59,995 before destination and handling, which makes it the most expensive car VW sells. Starting at $67,995, Volkswagen will offer an all-wheel-drive version as well that makes 335 horsepower (250 kW) and features 231 miles (372 km) of range.

US PRICING
VW ID. BuzzMSRP*
Pro S RWD$59,995
Pro S Plus RWD$63,495
Pro S Plus AWD$67,995
1st Edition RWD$65,495
1st Edition AWD$69,995
*Excludes $1,550 destination and handling
SWIPE

Buyers who want one of the “1st Edition” trims will need to be willing to pay at least $65,495. Those versions come standard with two-tone paint and an electrochromic panoramic smart glass roof. Customers who might have been interested in the California Camper version will need to wait until “later this decade” as VW has pushed back plans for it. It’s also worth noting that a short-wheelbase version of the van, available in Europe, will not be sold in the USA.

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For now, the automaker is very clearly leaning heavily into the nostalgia effect in an effort to sell this minivan. Beyond the classic styling elements, VW has featured the ID. Buzz in various ads that call back to the heyday of the brand. Ultimately, Volkswagen needs this van to sell well. Arno Antlitz, VW Group’s CFO, told workers that the brand has “one, maybe two” years to turn things around as it’s facing reduced demand in Europe and serious challenges in China, which used to be a serious money-maker for the German automaker.

With all that in mind, what would you like to know about this pivotal new product from VW? Share your thoughts in the comments, and we’ll be sure to update you after we take it for a spin.

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