Volkswagen’s iconic Kombi van has been reborn for the electric age, and it’s set to make waves in the Australian market. The 2025 Volkswagen ID Buzz combines nostalgic design cues with cutting-edge electric technology, offering a unique proposition for families, businesses, and adventure seekers alike.
A Modern Take on a Classic
The ID Buzz pays homage to its predecessor with its boxy silhouette and two-tone paint options, but that’s where the similarities end. This all-electric van boasts a sleek, contemporary design that’s both functional and eye-catching. The front fascia features a distinctive LED light signature, while the smooth body panels and aerodynamic wheels hint at its eco-friendly powertrain.
Australian buyers will have a choice of vibrant colors, including the striking Cherry Red exclusive to the GTX model. The vehicle’s dimensions are substantial, measuring 4962mm in length for the long-wheelbase version, with a width of 1985mm. This generous size translates to a spacious interior and impressive cargo capacity.
Powertrain Options for Every Need
Volkswagen is offering the ID Buzz in Australia with a range of powertrain options to suit different requirements. The lineup includes:
ID Buzz Cargo: A three-seat panel van ideal for businesses
ID Buzz Pro SWB: A short-wheelbase, five-seat people mover
ID Buzz Pro LWB: A long-wheelbase, seven-seat family hauler
ID Buzz GTX: The range-topping, all-wheel-drive performance variant
The Pro models feature a rear-mounted electric motor producing an impressive 210kW of power and 560Nm of torque. This setup provides ample acceleration for a vehicle of this size, with the long-wheelbase version capable of sprinting from 0-100km/h in a respectable 7.9 seconds.
For those seeking even more performance, the GTX model adds a front electric motor, bringing the total system output to 250kW. This dual-motor setup not only enhances acceleration but also provides the added traction of all-wheel drive.
Battery and Range
The ID Buzz is equipped with a large battery pack to ensure it can handle long journeys with ease. The long-wheelbase models feature an 86kWh (usable) lithium-ion battery, while the short-wheelbase variants come with a 77kWh pack. These substantial batteries contribute to the vehicle’s impressive weight of 2795kg for the LWB Pro model.
While official Australian range figures are yet to be confirmed, European WLTP testing suggests a range between 461km and 487km, depending on the variant. This should be more than sufficient for most daily driving needs and even weekend getaways.
Charging capabilities are equally impressive, with the ID Buzz supporting DC fast charging at rates up to 200kW. This means you can add a significant amount of range in just a short stop, perfect for those long road trips across Australia’s vast landscapes.
Interior Space and Versatility
Step inside the ID Buzz, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s both spacious and versatile. The long-wheelbase model offers genuine seven-seat capability, with ample head and legroom even in the third row. This makes it an excellent choice for large families or those who frequently transport groups.
The interior design is modern and minimalist, with a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. This is complemented by a digital instrument cluster, creating a high-tech cockpit environment.
Practicality hasn’t been forgotten, with numerous storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin, including the clever “ID Buzz Box” removable center console.
Cargo space is generous, with 306 liters available behind the third row of seats. Fold the rear seats down, and this expands to over 1000 liters, providing van-like carrying capacity when needed. The absence of a traditional engine also allows for a front trunk or “frunk,” offering additional storage space under the hood.
Technology and Connectivity
The ID Buzz comes packed with the latest technology to keep occupants connected and entertained. Standard features include:
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Wireless phone charging
Multiple USB-C ports throughout the cabin
Over-the-air software updates
Volkswagen’s IDA voice assistant
An optional Infotainment Package Plus adds a premium Harman Kardon sound system and a head-up display, further enhancing the tech-savvy nature of the vehicle.
Safety First
Volkswagen has equipped the ID Buzz with a comprehensive suite of safety features, earning it a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. Standard safety equipment includes:
Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
Lane keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
A 360-degree camera system
The GTX model adds further safety enhancements, including Volkswagen’s Travel Assist system, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering for semi-autonomous highway driving.
Driving Dynamics
Despite its size and weight, the ID Buzz offers surprisingly agile handling. The rear-wheel-drive layout of the Pro models provides a balanced feel, while the low center of gravity (thanks to the battery placement) contributes to stable cornering. The electric powertrain delivers instant torque, making the ID Buzz feel more sprightly than its dimensions might suggest.
The ride quality is generally smooth and composed, with the adaptive suspension (standard on higher trims) allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s character to their preferences. Road noise is well suppressed, creating a serene cabin environment for long journeys.
Pricing and Variants
Volkswagen has positioned the ID Buzz as a premium offering in the Australian market, with pricing as follows:
ID Buzz Cargo SWB: $79,990
ID Buzz Pro SWB: $87,990
ID Buzz Pro LWB: $91,290
ID Buzz GTX LWB: $109,990
All prices are before on-road costs. It’s worth noting that the Pro models fall below the Luxury Car Tax threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles, making them exempt from fringe benefits tax – a significant advantage for business buyers.
Optional packages allow buyers to further customize their ID Buzz. The Interior Style Package ($6470) adds premium upholstery and heated seats, while standalone options like 21-inch alloy wheels ($1900) and a panoramic sunroof ($3290) are also available.
Environmental Credentials
As an all-electric vehicle, the ID Buzz produces zero tailpipe emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice for eco-conscious buyers. Volkswagen claims an energy consumption figure of 20.6kWh/100km for the Pro LWB model, which is impressive considering the vehicle’s size and weight.
The company has also focused on sustainability in the production process, incorporating recycled materials where possible and optimizing manufacturing techniques to reduce environmental impact.
Australian Arrival and Market Impact
The 2025 Volkswagen ID Buzz is set to arrive in Australian showrooms in December 2024, with the GTX model following in early 2025. This launch marks a significant milestone for Volkswagen’s electric vehicle strategy in Australia, offering a unique proposition in the growing EV market.
With its combination of practicality, performance, and eco-friendly credentials, the ID Buzz is poised to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Families will appreciate its spacious interior and advanced safety features, while businesses can benefit from the Cargo variant’s versatility and potential tax advantages.
The ID Buzz also taps into the growing nostalgia for the original Kombi, potentially attracting buyers who have an emotional connection to the classic model but desire modern amenities and performance.
2025 Volkswagen ID Buzz
The 2025 Volkswagen ID Buzz represents a bold step forward for the German automaker, successfully reimagining an iconic model for the electric age. Its blend of retro-inspired design, cutting-edge technology, and practical functionality makes it a compelling option in the Australian market.
While the pricing positions it as a premium offering, the ID Buzz offers a unique value proposition that sets it apart from traditional SUVs and vans. As Australia continues its transition towards electric mobility, vehicles like the ID Buzz will play a crucial role in demonstrating that EVs can be both practical and desirable.
For those seeking a family vehicle with a difference, or a business looking to make a statement while reducing their carbon footprint, the 2025 Volkswagen ID Buzz offers an exciting glimpse into the future of transportation – one that pays homage to the past while embracing the possibilities of an electric future.