Summary
- Volkswagen introduced the U.S. version of the electric van in 2023 inspired by the classic Type-2 Volkswagen Bus
- The van is marketed for a free-spirited lifestyle but will likely be used for commuter duty in cities
- The specific model being tested is the Pro S Plus with rear-wheel drive powered by a 282 horsepower motor and 91 kWh battery
- The range of the van is 234 miles, and the tester paid $66,040 after destination fees
- The tester will be driving the van in Central Ohio during winter conditions to provide a realistic perspective for buyers outside of California
Article
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, a U.S. version of the electric van homage to the classic Type-2 Volkswagen Bus of the 1960s, was showcased in 2023 with marketing materials evoking images of surfing and a free-spirit lifestyle. While these vans may be ideal for such activities, in reality, many of them will serve as commuter vehicles in less-than-ideal city conditions. The writer reflects on the idea of driving the van on Route 1 listening to music, juxtaposed with the more typical experience of quietly listening to NPR on the highway.
The writer discusses their experience with the ID. Buzz, specifically the Pro S Plus model sent by Volkswagen. This model features a rear-wheel-drive system powered by a 282-horsepower motor fueled by a 91 kWh battery, providing a range of 234 miles. The tester’s vehicle has a two-tone exterior in Mahi Green and Candy White and comes with a price tag of $66,040 after destination fees. Comparisons are made with the AWD Buzz model, which offers slightly less range at 231 miles.
The writer acknowledges that a colleague had previously driven the ID. Buzz at a launch event in Northern California but notes that their own experience will be in Central Ohio during the tail end of winter. Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions, the writer believes their experience may be more representative of buyers living in other parts of the country where weather conditions can vary greatly. They invite readers to send any questions or comments about the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz.
Driving an electric vehicle in Ohio during winter presents challenges, especially for a large vehicle like the ID. Buzz. The writer anticipates freezing temperatures during their test drive but hopes to experience 60-degree springtime weather before returning the vehicle. While California may offer more favorable conditions for electric cars, the writer aims to provide a more realistic experience for potential buyers in regions with different climates and driving conditions.
Considering the practicality of using the ID. Buzz as a daily commuter vehicle, the writer reflects on the marketing image of carefree beach days versus the reality of driving in urban city settings. While the van may not live up to the romanticized vision portrayed in ads, it offers a functional and environmentally friendly option for those looking to embrace electric mobility. With its blend of nostalgia and modern technology, the ID. Buzz represents a new era of transportation that seeks to balance style with sustainability.
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