Three years after the tantalizing concept ID.Buzz, Volkswagen has therefore kept its promise to put a 21st century combi into production. From the concept, it takes up the curves and the overall proportions inspired by the famous combi, in particular the wheels rejected at the four ends to free up a lot of space between the axles, essential to fit a generous battery.
The winks are also numerous in the details, in particular the work of the rear upright with the pseudo-air intakes, necessary in the past to cool the engine located at the rear. Or the very vertical front face with the logo clearly visible. On this point, we regret that the brand did not push the reference to “T1” by keeping the large logo of the concept.
Cheerful and colorful atmosphere
The passenger compartment also multiplies the allusions to the Combi. But it’s more subtle here, and Volkswagen seems to have wanted to rationalize the components as much as possible between its ID models. The on-board furniture is in fact inspired by that of the ID.3 and ID.4, with a large floating central screen for all the functions and a small screen facing the driver showing the essential information. And the touches of color are numerous to brighten up the atmosphere.
The small disappointment in the cabin comes from the rear seats. Although Volkswagen specifies that the ID.Buzz is 81 mm wider than a Transporter, it does not offer three seats of equal width. The middle passenger has to make do with a tight space that will be uncomfortable for long journeys. Too bad for a family car. The habitability is nonetheless generous, especially in terms of the legs and in the absence of any transmission tunnel. And the trunk, accessible by a large tailgate, displays at least 1,121 liters of capacity.
And let’s also point out that the upholstery is made of vegan leather and partially recycled materials.
Large battery and fast charging
Anchored in the 21st century, this ID.Buzz will only be offered with an electric motor. For its launch, it will receive the 150 kW motor powered by a 77 kWh battery capable of accepting fast charges up to 170 kWh. Enough to recover 80% of the autonomy in 30 minutes.
utility too
The ID.Buzz also exists in a utility version with a comparable technical sheet. Its loading volume reaches 3.9 m3 and 650 kg payload. It can accommodate two or three seats in the front. Specially dedicated to urban deliveries, its turning radius of 11.1 m should delight professionals.
The Volkswagen ID.Buzz will be marketed here at the very end of the year.