The Volkswagen ID. Buzz 2023 brings retro charm into the electric age, reviving the iconic VW Microbus with a fully modern EV platform. Designed for families, adventurers and eco-minded drivers, the ID. Buzz combines generous space, clever packaging and smooth electric performance — making it one of the most distinctive people-carriers on UK roads today.
Key Points
- Fully electric MPV with up to 258 miles WLTP range
- 204 hp rear-mounted motor
- 0–62 mph in 10.2 seconds
- 77 kWh usable battery
- Fast charging up to 170 kW
- UK prices from £57,115
- ULEZ exempt, zero road tax
Modern EV Tech, Classic VW Soul
The ID. Buzz revives the spirit of the classic Type 2, but underneath it runs on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, shared with the ID.3, ID.4 and ID.5. It’s designed around space, comfort and electric efficiency rather than outright performance.
Volkswagen UK calls it “a reinvention of an icon for a new electric era.” And on UK roads, its combination of personality and practicality makes it stand out immediately.
Exterior and Dimensions
The ID. Buzz keeps the friendly face and rounded proportions of the original Microbus, now shaped by LEDs, two-tone paint and aerodynamic surfacing.
| Dimension | ID. Buzz | VW Multivan | Mercedes EQV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,712 mm | 4,973 mm | 5,140 mm |
| Width | 1,985 mm | 1,941 mm | 1,928 mm |
| Height | 1,938 mm | 1,903 mm | 1,901 mm |
| Boot | 1,121 L | 763 L | 1,030 L |
The boxy shape isn’t just nostalgia — it maximises interior room and visibility, perfect for tight urban streets and family life.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the ID. Buzz offers a bright, airy cabin with huge windows, sliding doors and excellent headroom.
Standard equipment includes:
- 10-inch or 12-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Wireless charging
- Ambient lighting
- Heated seats
- Digital cockpit
- Optional panoramic roof
The seating position is upright and confidence-inspiring, and the cabin materials feel modern, with recycled fabrics and colour accents inspired by the original Microbus.
For premium interior comparisons, you can explore electric alternatives like the Volkswagen ID.5 2022 or family-friendly electric SUVs within 20 Best SUVs Under £40k.
Powertrain and Performance
The ID. Buzz uses a rear-mounted electric motor delivering smooth acceleration and excellent traction.
| Motor | Power | Torque | 0–62 mph | Range | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-motor EV | 204 hp | 310 Nm | 10.2 s | 258 miles | RWD |
Performance is adequate for daily use, with the instant torque making city driving effortless. The low centre of gravity gives it surprising stability for a tall MPV.
From my point of view, the ID. Buzz’s relaxed handling suits long journeys and urban use perfectly — quiet, predictable and comfortable.
Driving Experience
Visibility is excellent, body roll is well-controlled, and the steering feels natural. Suspension tuning prioritises comfort, making the ID. Buzz feel like a relaxing cruiser rather than a sporty EV.
At motorway speeds, it’s stable and refined, with minimal wind noise for such a large vehicle. In town, the tight turning circle makes manoeuvring far easier than its size suggests.
Drivers often adapting to mixed-speed roads may find the consistent torque delivery pairs well with the habits outlined in UK Speed Camera Regulations 2025 for smooth, efficient EV driving.
Range and Charging
The 77 kWh battery supports:
- 170 kW DC fast charging (5–80% in ~30 minutes)
- 11 kW AC charging (full charge in ~7.5 hours)
Real-world range typically lands between 210 and 240 miles, depending on temperature and load.
Energy efficiency averages 2.7–3.0 miles/kWh, strong for a large MPV.
Practicality
Practicality is the ID. Buzz’s strongest advantage:
- Huge 1,121-litre boot
- Flat floor
- Sliding rear doors
- Configurable seating
- Massive cabin storage
It’s ideal for families, campers, dog owners and anyone who needs space without wanting a diesel van-derived MPV.
The long-wheelbase version adds a third row of seats, though UK availability varies.
UK Trims and Pricing
| Trim | Highlights | Price (OTR) |
|---|---|---|
| Life | LED lights, 10” screen, heated seats | £57,115 |
| Style | Matrix LEDs, 12” screen, upgraded interior | £61,915 |
| 1st Edition | Premium styling, 20” wheels, advanced driver assist | £62,995 |
The Cargo version exists for commercial users but has different equipment.
Safety and Reliability
The ID. Buzz includes Volkswagen’s latest safety systems:
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise with Travel Assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
- Rear-cross traffic alert
It’s built on Volkswagen’s established MEB EV platform, improving long-term reliability, supported by over-the-air updates.
FAQs
Is the Volkswagen ID. Buzz available in the UK?
Yes, in both passenger and Cargo versions.
Is it ULEZ compliant?
Yes — fully electric.
How fast does it charge?
Up to 170 kW DC, about 30 minutes for 5–80%.
How many seats does it have?
Five in the standard model; seven on long-wheelbase versions.
Is it good for long trips?
Yes — refined, spacious and comfortable, with motorway-friendly range.
Conclusion
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz 2023 is one of the most charismatic EVs on sale in the UK. Spacious, smooth and full of personality, it blends practicality with design in a way few electric vehicles can match.
From my point of view, it’s an ideal choice for families or lifestyle-focused drivers who want something different from the usual SUVs. With strong range, great comfort and iconic looks, the ID. Buzz revives a legend for the electric era and does it brilliantly.
