I remember when I first started discussing features for AutoNotion with Dave McQuilling, I said that I really wanted to write about the VW ID.Buzz. I felt it didn’t deserve to be discontinued \u2014 it felt like the only cool EV we had. But Dave brought up a good point: The VW ID.Buzz was inspired by Volkswagen’s old buses, the ones that were made for long-term camping and road trips. So… Why was there no bed? Why was there no range?<\/p>\n
I agreed, hence no article. But now I can finally say: The VW ID.Buzz is back, and it will have a mattress.<\/p>\n
The VW ID.Buzz was super quirky, with retro styling and modern features. The vivid colors, round shape, and cool storage solutions made it a gem amongst bland SUVs. Unfortunately, it was not selling well.<\/p>\n
The biggest issue? Not even nostalgia could save it when it was priced at over $61,500 (and up to $70,000 once you upgrade some stuff). This put it at luxury pricing in its category. But many felt it wasn’t worth it when the range was horrendous compared to the competition. You were basically paying more because it’s cooler and cuter, which is worth it to some (me) but not most.<\/p>\n
A review from TFLCars said the range anxiety ruined the driving experience. The review stated: “When you look down, you suddenly realize that you have 28% battery charge remaining and a paltry 67 miles before your Buzzy butt is siding on the side of the road. You\u2019re then scrambling to find a charging station because the new Volkswagen ID.Buzz, in the best-<\/em>case scenario, manages 234 miles on a single charge of its 13-module, 91-kWh battery pack. The 4Motion model takes a slight range hit for 231 miles, but again, that\u2019s assuming you granny drive it everywhere you go. Get a cheeky jump from the lights or cruise at highway speeds for too long, and that range figure precipitously drops off until the aforementioned anxiety sets in.”<\/p>\n Gulp.<\/p>\n Alright, I admit that’s a big issue. Especially for a vehicle meant for adventuring and exploring.<\/p>\n When the ID.Buzz left, and Volkswagen didn’t seem to be done with the unique bus forever. And that luckily ended up being true. It’s returning for 2027, and it will be greatly improved after its one-year hiatus.<\/p>\n The biggest change is the Tourer model, which has a mattress, blinds, and other stuff you’d need to be a massive beach bum or hang out at a campground. Being able to sleep inside the ID.Buzz is a game-changer. It also has a table and chairs, making it even more convenient for overnight stays.<\/p>\n The Tourer will also have a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive, a retractable tow hitch, 20-inch wheels, and an improved interior. The second row has captain’s chairs, and you’ll get Volkswagen’s new Android-based infotainment system, ID S 6. It also has access to the Tesla Supercharger network.<\/p>\n However, we still don’t know the price. If it’s going to be even more expensive, it better have the range to match. If not, this comeback may fail. Americans are struggling to afford new cars, and the ID.Buzz is clearly a niche pick. Anyone with an average income will likely not want to splurge for a low-range, quirky van with a mattress. Well, unless they plan to live inside of it. Which I guess you can now.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" I remember when I first started discussing features for AutoNotion with Dave McQuilling, I said that I really wanted to … <\/p>\n