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Car and Driver
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Volkswagen ID.Buzz Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview The 2026 Volkswagen EV may be a nostalgia play, but there's plenty of genuine practicality baked into this fully electric modern Microbus reinterpretation. Three rows of seating provide room for up to seven passengers, dual sliding side doors make for easy access, and there are eight USB power ports to ensure a charging democracy. Massive expanses of glass keep the interior vibe cheery and provide excellent outward sightlines. A single-motor rear-wheel-drive powertrain is standard, but a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup is available. The dual-motor model ramps up the Buzz's performance while only putting a mild dent in its EPA-estimated 234-mile max range. Now entering its second model year, the ID. Buzz still draws enough attention that you'll make new friends wherever you go. Expert Tip: If you want a three-row EV but the novelty factor turns you off, check out the Kia EV9 or the Hyundai Ioniq 9. What's New for 2026? Entering its second model year, the carries over with no major changes, but given its celebrity status, we can't rule out the possibility of special editions joining the lineup. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Volkswagen is expected to start around $62,000 and go up to $66,000 depending on the trim and options. Pro S $62,000 (est) Pro S Plus $66,000 (est) We'd go with the rear-wheel-drive Pro S Plus trim, as it adds plenty of equipment to justify the extra spend over the base Pro S. Features include the desirable 14-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo system, a head-up display, a 360-degree exterior camera system, power-sliding side doors, and a retractable tow hitch. EV Motor, Power, and Performance EV Motors: 282-hp single motor, 335-hp dual motor. 282-hp single motor, 335-hp dual motor. Drivetrains: Rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive The rides on the same platform that underpins the Audi Q4 e-tron crossover and the VW ID.4 crossover. The base model features a single, rear-mounted electric motor that makes 282 horsepower. A dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration, dubbed 4Motion in VW speak, with a combined 335 horsepower, is also offered. In our test drive of the all-wheel-drive we found that it offers spirited acceleration and a comfortable ride. The rear-wheel-drive version is a bit slower but otherwise drives similarly. It's quiet at lower speeds but can get a bit noisy on the highway. We weren't fans of the brake pedal's inconsistent feel, and the is quite heavy; fortunately, the placement of the battery pack under the floor means that handling still feels secure. 0–60-MPH Times In Comparison: While the doesn't yet have any direct competitors, the new Hyundai Ioniq 9, with its most powerful AWD motor configuration, jumped to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. View Exterior Photos Michael Simari | Car and Driver Towing and Payload Capacity When properly equipped, the rear-wheel-drive is rated to tow up to 2600 pounds, and the all-wheel-drive version can tow 3500 pounds. A retractable tow hitch is available. Range, Charging, and Battery Life C/D Range Test: 190 miles (Pro S Plus 4Motion AWD Dual Motor), 180 miles (Pro S RWD) 190 miles (Pro S Plus 4Motion AWD Dual Motor), 180 miles (Pro S RWD) EPA EV Range: 231-234 miles The EPA says rear-wheel-drive models offer up to 234 miles of range per charge, and all-wheel drive models up to 231 miles per charge. In our real-world 75-mph highway range testing, the AWD achieved a result of 190 miles and the RWD covered 180 miles. The comes with an 86.0-kWh battery pack as standard, and VW also claims that those who plug into a DC fast-charger will be able to charge from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 30 minutes; in our testing, the RWD charged from 10 percent to 90 percent in 33 minutes. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe C/D 75-mph Highway Fuel-Economy Test: 78 MPGe ( Pro S Plus AWD 4Motion ) 78 MPGe ( ) EPA City Ratings: 87-90 MPGe 87-90 MPGe EPA Highway Ratings: 74-75 MPGe The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 yet, but the 2025 model earned ratings of 90 MPGe city, 75 MPGe highway, and 83 MPGe combined for the single-motor version. We were pleased to find that the 2025 Pro S Plus 4Motion delivered 78 MPGe in our real-world testing, beating its EPA estimate by 4 MPGe. MPGe stands for miles per gallon of gas equivalent, an EPA metric that estimates PHEV and EV vehicle fuel efficiency. For more information about the fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo First Row: The front seats are comfortable, provide fore and aft adjustment to fit drivers of any size, and are equipped with both heat and ventilation features. Adjustable armrests are a nice touch, as is the center console between the front seats that is removable or can be moved to the second row when equipped with captain's chairs. Door armrests are of average size but well-positioned for comfort Second Row: Buyers have a choice of either a bench seat or captain's chairs for the second row, though the latter reduces the passenger count to six. There's no shortage of leg, shoulder, or headroom with either version, thanks to the van's boxy design. Tables that fold out of the backrests of the front seats make a great place for rear-seat passengers to work, play, or set up snack service. Third Row: No worries about cramped third-row accommodations in the and even adults will find there's plenty of room to stretch out. Access is relatively easy via the large sliding doors, and the space is airy thanks to the large glass areas. Cargo Capacity: C/D tested the and found 19 cubic feet of cargo area behind the third row, 76 cubes behind the second row, and 146 cubes to back of the front seats. With the third row up, we fit seven carry-on bags. View Interior Photos Michael Simari | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity Infotainment: 12.9-inch touchscreen (standard) 12.9-inch touchscreen (standard) Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Audio System: 9-speaker stereo (standard); 14-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo (optional). A 5.3-inch screen serves as the instrument cluster and moves with the steering column so that it's always easily in view. A 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard and within easy reach for the driver. A configurable head-up display is available as an option. A wireless charging pad is joined by eight USB ports—two in the dashboard, one in the rearview mirror housing, and a single 45-watt port in the passenger door, two in the second row, and two in the third row. A 110-volt outlet resides under the passenger seat, and a 12-volt power port is located in the cargo area. A nine-speaker stereo comes standard, but buyers who want it can upgrade to a 14-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system that includes a subwoofer. A SiriusXM with 360L is available with a subscription. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The is offered with a diverse selection of standard and optional driver-assistance technology. Volkswagen also offers a memory function for the self-park assist that is said to work on pre-saved routes. Standard Safety Features: lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional Safety Features: 360-degree camera system. For information about the crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Volkswagen currently offers an above-average limited warranty and below-average powertrain coverage compared with rival non-luxury brands. The electric components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles. Limited Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles Battery Component Warranty: eight years or 100,000 miles Complimentary Maintenance: two years or 20,000 miles C/D Test Results and Specs We test every vehicle we can. Data in the chart below may be for a different model year if the model remained unchanged from when we last tested it. Specifications Specifications 2025 Volkswagen Pro S Plus 4Motion Vehicle Type: front- and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 6-passenger, 4-door van PRICE Base/As Tested: $69,545/$72,035 POWERTRAIN Front Motor: induction AC, 107 hp, 99 lb-ft Rear Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 282 hp, 413 lb-ft Combined Power: 335 hp Battery Pack: liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 86.0 kWh Onboard Charger: 11.0 kW Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate: 200 kW Transmissions, F/R: direct-drive CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: control arms/multilink Brakes, F/R: 15.0-in vented disc,/13.0-in drum Tires: Continental ProContact TX10 F: HL235/50R-20 107T M+S + R: HL265/45R-20 111T M+S + DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 131.1 in Length: 195.4 in Width: 78.1 in Height: 76.2 in Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 54/60/49 ft3 Cargo Volume, Behind F/M/R: 146/76/19 ft3 Curb Weight: 6174 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 5.5 sec 1/4-Mile: 14.2 sec @ 97 mph 100 mph: 16.3 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.4 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 2.2 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.3 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 101 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 174 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.80 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY AND CHARGING Observed: 78 MPGe 75-mph Highway Range: 190 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 80/87/74 MPGe Range: 231 mi - - - 2025 Volkswagen Pro S Vehicle Type: rear-motor, rear-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door van PRICE Base/As Tested: $61,545/$66,040 POWERTRAIN Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC Power: 282 hp @ 6500 rpm Torque: 413 lb-ft @ 0 rpm Battery Pack: liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 86.0 kWh Onboard Charger: 11.0 kW Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate: 200 kW Transmission: direct-drive CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: control arms/multilink Brakes, F/R: 15.0-in vented disc/13.0-in drum Tires: Continental ProContact TX110 F: HL235/50R-20 107T M+S + R: HL265/45R-20 111T M+S + DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 127.5 in Length: 195.4 in Width: 78.1 in Height: 76.2 in Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 52/58/49 ft3 Cargo Volume, Behind F/M/R: 146/76/19 ft3 Curb Weight: 5939 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 6.7 sec 1/4-Mile: 15.3 sec @ 90 mph 100 mph: 20.6 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 6.5 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 2.5 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.9 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 101 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 165 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.83 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY AND CHARGING Observed: 51 MPGe 75-mph Highway Range: 180 mi Average DC Fast-Charge Rate, 10–90%: 137 kW DC Fast-Charge Time, 10–90%: 33 min EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 83/90/75 MPGe Range: 234 mi C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
The Irish Sun
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Britain's most popular car brand to bring back ‘favourite' model with a retro twist
Popular car brand Volkswagen are looking to offer a new practical alternative to SUVs with qualities similar to the iconic microbus. The MPVs are renowned for their space, practicality and people carrying, making them the According to It is these features that have led to the car being likened to a modern-day microbus. The microbus was first introduced in 1950 and went on to have an iconic history, becoming synonymous with hippie culture. Motors The design direction of the new model is still under wraps although it is expected to be influenced by the likes of the 2011 Bulli and 2016 Budd-e. This new take on the classic Microbus type 2 is reportedly aimed at families looking for a 'no-nonsense, high-utility electric vehicle with sliding rear doors and strong day-to-day usability.' It is rumoured that this new model is under internal review, with a production decision yet to be officially made. Reportedly, Volkswagen recently retrieved various MPV concepts from storage to support these internal discussions and explore how their design could be adapted for a new model. Most read in Motors Autocar added: 'This move reflects a broader shift in thinking in Volkswagen's Wolfsburg headquarters in , where there is renewed recognition that a dedicated family-focused MPV may still have commercial relevance.' This model would rival popular electric SUV models like the 2026 Genesis GV70, No old ideas The design direction of the car is also yet to be revealed, although buyers can expect an upright silhouette, short overhangs, a flat floor and a high roof line. All of these considerations have been made with the aim of making the car as spacious as possible. Launched in 2003, the Touran model is one of the most successful European models of its type with 2.6 million units sold globally. However, it could soon be replaced with this new model. It is reported that if given the green light, the new model could be released as soon as 2027 or 2028. This has the potential to revive the Touran badge in line with Volkswagen's plan to provide future 1 The 2016 Budd-e that the model is set to take inspiration from
Car and Driver
03-06-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
VW to Restore the Microbus That Survived the California Wildfires
A white-over-blue Volkswagen Type 2 Microbus that survived the Los Angeles wildfires was the star of a famous photograph. In the photo, it looked to be entirely spared, but the far side was blistered by the heat. Now, Volkswagen of America has offered to restore it back to its original glory, as a symbol of hope. After devastating wildfires tore through neighborhoods around Los Angeles, there was little hope to be found. Rich or poor, people lost their homes and possessions, and many are still waiting to be allowed to return home. But among the countless images of charred destruction, one stood out: a white-over-blue 1977 Volkswagen Type 2 Microbus, surrounded by burnt and broken buildings but seemingly untouched. Mark J. Terrill | AP AP photographer Mark J. Terrill snapped the above photo, and it instantly went viral. A vintage VW Microbus is as pure California as it comes, and for such a machine to have survived seemed like a little fragment of magic in a time when many were reeling. However, it wasn't completely untouched by the fires. It suffered significant scorching on the right side, which is hidden in the photo. Now, Volkswagen of America will be restoring this survivor to like-new condition. The '77 Bus belongs to Megan Weinraub, a resident of Malibu who designs surfboards and skateboards. She was learning to drive a manual transmission with it. Before that, it belonged to Weinraub's business partner, Preston Martin—also a surfboard maker. He lived in the van during his senior year of college to save money. His mom sewed curtains for it. This VW van is so 100 percent Californian, they should put it on a flag and fly it over the state capitol. Volkswagen Volkswagen of America needed special permission to rescue the T2—which Weinraub has dubbed 'Azul' for its blue hue–as the area was still closed to the public. From there, it was shipped to VW's Oxnard campus, where Volkswagen's historic vehicles fleet is stored and maintained. It's going to need significant mechanical work and repairs to the scorched side, but it's in the right hands. Along with offering to repair Weinraub's beloved VW, Volkswagen also donated to the California Fire Foundation earlier this year. The announcement about the restoration came on June 2, which happens to be the third International Volkswagen Bus Day on the national day calendar. Volkswagen Volkswagen T2 buses have been homes and transportation for many people over the years, not to mention a Hollywood star in films such as Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Little Miss Sunshine. It could not be more fitting that, when SoCal was hurting, a little VW Microbus provided a small miracle of hope. Brendan McAleer Contributing Editor Brendan McAleer is a freelance writer and photographer based in North Vancouver, B.C., Canada. He grew up splitting his knuckles on British automobiles, came of age in the golden era of Japanese sport-compact performance, and began writing about cars and people in 2008. His particular interest is the intersection between humanity and machinery, whether it is the racing career of Walter Cronkite or Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki's half-century obsession with the Citroën 2CV. He has taught both of his young daughters how to shift a manual transmission and is grateful for the excuse they provide to be perpetually buying Hot Wheels.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Volkswagen and Uber to test, deploy robotaxis
This story was originally published on Automotive Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Automotive Dive newsletter. Volkswagen and Uber inked a partnership to offer robotaxi service on the Uber app via thousands of the automaker's ID. Buzz vans, the companies announced April 24. Testing with human operators is set to begin later this year. The companies anticipate launching the service in Los Angeles in 2026 before expanding to other U.S. locations over the next decade. Volkswagen's all-electric ID. Buzz, a retro-styled minivan with a design based on the classic Volkswagen bus, can seat up to seven passengers. It was first available for sale in the U.S. in 2024. Volkswagen's ride pool and autonomous mobility arm, MOIA, will be responsible for the van's self-driving technology and the software to deploy the vehicles on the Uber platform. The subsidiary has been developing and testing autonomous ride pool service in Hamburg, Germany, since 2021. Automakers have increasingly tapped strategic partnerships such as the one between Volkswagen and Uber to expedite deployment of autonomous technology. For example, robotaxi company Waymo has partnered with Jaguar to expand its self-driving ride hail service in a handful of U.S. cities and it recently announced a partnership with Hyundai to install fully autonomous driving technology in the Ioniq 5. And in August 2024, General Motors announced a partnership with Uber through GM's robotaxi subsidiary Cruise—before the automaker stopped funding Cruise in December 2024, citing an 'increasingly competitive robotaxi market' and a new focus on autonomous driving for personal vehicles. 'Volkswagen is not just a car manufacturer—we are shaping the future of mobility, and our collaboration with Uber accelerates that vision,' Christian Senger, CEO of Volkswagen Autonomous Mobility, said in a statement. He added that Volkswagen combines 'high-volume manufacturing expertise with cutting-edge technology and a deep understanding of urban mobility needs.' With thousands of ID. Buzz vans on U.S. city streets, the partnership could also draw more customers to the ride hailing service as well as buyers for VW's EV microbus. 'Through our work with Uber, we'll introduce the ID. Buzz, the reimagined version of the iconic Microbus in all-electric form, to a growing number of riders in the years to come,' said Kjell Gruner, Volkswagen Group of America president and CEO. Recommended Reading NHTSA seeks to fast-track AV deployment Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
24-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Volkswagen and Uber partner to deploy autonomous ID. Buzz
Volkswagen Group of America Inc.'s autonomous mobility subsidiary Volkswagen ADMT, LLC, and Uber Technologies, Inc. have announced a strategic partnership to deploy a fleet of thousands of all-electric, fully autonomous ID. Buzz AD vehicles within multiple US markets over the next decade, starting in Los Angeles. Testing is expected to begin later this year, with the first commercial launch expected in Los Angeles in 2026. During the initial testing and launch phases, ID. Buzz AD vehicles will have human operators onboard to help refine the technology and ensure safety. Each step will proceed only after any necessary regulatory approvals have been received. MOIA, a Volkswagen AG autonomous mobility brand, will provide its integrated solution for autonomous driving which includes the ID. Buzz AD and software-based system for the deployment on the Uber platform. 'Volkswagen is not just a car manufacturer—we are shaping the future of mobility, and our collaboration with Uber accelerates that vision,' said Christian Senger, CEO of Volkswagen Autonomous Mobility. 'What really sets us apart is our ability to combine the best of both worlds—high-volume manufacturing expertise with cutting-edge technology and a deep understanding of urban mobility needs.' 'Volkswagen believes that mobility is transformational. Our partnership with Uber is the next step for us to realize this vision and unleash the potential of autonomous mobility,' said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. 'Through our work with Uber, we'll introduce the ID. Buzz, the reimagined version of the iconic Microbus in all-electric form, to a growing number of riders in the years to come.' 'This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the advancement of autonomous mobility, and highlights both Volkswagen's and Uber's shared dedication to building the future of transportation,' said Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber. 'We can't wait to launch in Los Angeles late next year." Uber has struck deals with multiple partners to deploy self-driving technology across its ride share, delivery and freight businesses. Volkswagen has been testing its ID Buzz vans with human operators in Austin, Texas. "Volkswagen and Uber partner to deploy autonomous ID. Buzz" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
