The legendary bus has returned!? Volkswagen's electric minivan "ID. Buzz" is a fun car

"I've been waiting for this!" I couldn't help but rejoice at Volkswagen's new "ID. Buzz." Inheriting the features of the legendary VW bus (Type 2), it has attracted intense attention from many car enthusiasts. Let's take a detailed look at its design, interior layout, and driving performance with photos.

The new fully electric minivan, which carries the DNA of the VW Bus (Type 2)

Following the origin of Volkswagen, the "Beetle" (Type 1), the bus "Type 2" began mass production in 1950. In addition to the technology of the Beetle, the chassis was reinforced, gaining many fans both domestically and internationally.

This "Type 2," affectionately known as the Wagenbus in Japan for many years, carries on that tradition with the newly launched "ID. Buzz." The electric minivan, equipped with the latest driving assistance systems while retaining a classic feel, is also expected to serve as a new brand icon.

First, let's take a look at the exterior, which is the most concerning part. The body features a tight silhouette with minimal protrusion from the tire axles to the ends of the vehicle. The front face shines with an oversized VW logo reminiscent of the Wagenbus.

The front face features a V-shaped front panel between the LED headlights, which are divided by two-tone color lines, paying homage to the beloved Wagenbus across the ages. The windows, modernly arranged as sliding windows, retain a classical elegance.

A cabin that pursues passenger comfort

The interior adopts a "2-2-2" layout. There are two variations: the "6-seat normal wheelbase version (NWB)," which has a walkthrough in the center of the second row, and the "7-seat long wheelbase version (LWB)," which extends the wheelbase by approximately 250mm with a 2-3-2 layout.

Both offer a spacious atmosphere, reminiscent of a lounge. The interior, maximizing passenger comfort and convenience and making the most of space, has been skillfully crafted.

By reclining the seats to maximize cabin space, the trunk capacity can reach up to 2469L with the long wheelbase. The third-row seats are removable, allowing for easy loading of bicycles, camping equipment, and large appliances. Thanks to the sliding side doors, you can easily open and close them even when both hands are occupied. This suggests that a comfortable car trip is possible!

The driving performance allows for travel between Tokyo and Osaka without charging

Not only the design and ride comfort, but also the driving performance has the latest specifications. It is equipped with a 91kWh battery (84kWh for the normal wheelbase) and supports DC fast charging from 140kW to 150kW.

The driving range on a single charge is 554km for the long wheelbase model and 524km for the normal wheelbase (both assuming WLTC mode, as per Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism evaluations). In other words, you can drive from Tokyo to Osaka……is that really possible!? By the way, if you register on the app, it seems you can use fast charging at Volkswagen authorized dealers for free for up to one year.

In the historic Volkswagen bus, a small horizontally opposed gasoline engine powered the rear, but the "ID. Buzz" features an electric motor generating a maximum output of 210kW (286ps) and a maximum torque of 560Nm. This enables rear-wheel drive, resulting in a powerful and comfortable ride.

Equipped as standard with the latest driving assistance systems such as "Travel Assist" and "Lane Assist." With high safety levels, it’s perfect for traveling with family or pets.

Available in 2 grades, with a rich selection of optional packages.

The grades include the "Pro," which is a 6-seater with comfortable equipment as standard, and the "Pro Long Wheelbase," which features LED matrix headlights, relaxation functions (for the driver's and front passenger's seats), color interiors matching the exterior color, and 20-inch aluminum wheels.

Both grades are equipped with a variety of optional packages. The "Pro" offers an upgrade package that includes comfortable features such as LED matrix headlights "IQ. LIGHT" and power seats with relaxation functions for the driver and front passenger. Additionally, there is a luxury package available for the "Pro Long Wheelbase," combining a panoramic glass roof that can be darkened with a single touch and a premium sound system "Harman Kardon."

The legendary VW Bus has been equipped with electric vehicle technology in the "ID. Buzz." It feels like, after a long time, we may be able to appreciate the true value of a car not just as a "tool for transportation."

Car Name / The all-new ID.Buzz Pro
Price / 8,889,000 yen
Seating Capacity / 6 people
Motor / 210kW
Size / Overall length 4715 × overall width 1985 × overall height 1925mm, Wheelbase: 2990mm
Vehicle Weight / 2550kg
Rated Output / 89kW
Maximum Output (net value) / 210kW (286PS) / 0-3581rpm
Maximum Torque (net value) / 560Nm (57.1kgm) / 2100-5500rpm
Drive Battery / 353V, 84kWh

Car Name / The all-new ID.Buzz Pro Long Wheelbase
Price / 9,979,000 yen
Seating Capacity / 7 people
Motor / 210kW
Size / Overall length 4965 × overall width 1985 × overall height 1925mm, Wheelbase: 3240mm
Weight / 2720kg
Rated Output / 89kW
Maximum Output (net value) / 210kW (286PS) / 3581-6500rpm
Maximum Torque (net value) / 560Nm (57.1kgm) / 2100-5500rpm
Drive Battery / 383V, 91kWh

● Volkswagen Group Japan

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