Star Cars of The British Motor Show 2023 – ID Buzz
After decades of teasing, Volkswagen has finally released the spiritual successor to the legendary T1 Microbus – with the ID. Buzz.
It’s a strong statement from the German marque. After so many years of anticipation, to reimagine an icon of motoring as an electric family car is a sign of confidence in VW’s fast-expanding range of ID platforms.
Thankfully, the ID. Buzz doesn’t disappoint.
With its exaggerated, cartoon-like design, there can be no mistaking this as the modern interpretation of the old school Microbus.
Design details like the oversized VW roundel, triple slats in the D pillar, the upright driving position that hangs over the front axle and two-tone bodywork all set it apart as a VW ‘camper’.
However, unlike many other retro car designs, Volkswagen hasn’t descended into outright pastiche with the styling. The new bus harks back to the original without depending on it for its identity, and this helps give the ID. Buzz its own unique personality.
In fact, thanks to its tried-and-tested ID electric powertrain, evocative styling and starting price of around £57,000, the Buzz stands alone in the marketplace. There isn’t another machine in its class that ticks these boxes right now.
Talking of powertrains, the ID is packed with a 201bhp electric motor and 77kWh battery which drives the rear wheels. However, this is just a launch spec, and VW is expected to introduce a four-wheel drive option (as well as a sporty GTX model) in the near future.
The Buzz’s trim levels are similarly streamlined, with two trim levels to choose from. You will be pleased to know that both come with a decent amount of kit as standard, and there are a whole host of personalisation options available.
There is also the option of either five or seven seat configurations, with a camper version on the way (they had to…).
One of the standout options on the seven seat Buzz is an electric panoramic sunroof, which makes the cabin feel even more spacious, and is perfect if you’re on holiday with the kids and don’t want them getting bored or feeling cramped.
The roof actually comes with a clever multi-layered ‘Smart Glass’ system, which is a switchable liquid crystal film. This allows you to seamlessly switch between clear and privacy glass at the push of a button.
One of the most obvious questions posed at the ID. Buzz is its practicality as an electric family car.
The original T1 was beloved because it had a ‘go-anyway’ ability – in most part due to its plucky petrol engine sitting in the back.
With the ID. Buzz, being electric, will range anxiety quell any impulsive adventures?
Well, Volkswagen claims that with the new standard 85 kWh lithium-ion battery, the ID. Buzz has a range of up to 294 miles, which is a meaningful amount of range.
What’s more, if you’re planning on using the Buzz as a weekend camper, you can always charge it when you reach your destination.
At this point, you’re probably gagging to have a look around the new ID. Buzz. Well, you’re in luck! We will be displaying Volkswagen’s new Microbus at the British Motor Show – on August 17-20, courtesy of Marshall VW.
