Volkswagen has unveiled the long-wheelbase version of its electric seven-seater MPV, the ID Buzz. The German automaker describes the new vehicle as a modern-day interpretation of its iconic Samba bus. The ID Buzz LWB will be the first Volkswagen model to feature a newly upgraded 282bhp rear electric motor, as well as a larger 85kWh battery and the largest panoramic glass sunroof ever produced by the company. The vehicle is expected to go on sale in the UK by the end of 2023.
Design and Features
The Volkswagen ID Buzz LWB shares the retro-inspired appearance of the standard ID Buzz, with stretched proportions and an illuminated VW logo at the front (for markets where regulations permit). The LWB model is 250mm longer than the standard model, measuring 4962mm in length. The increase in length is achieved through a 250mm lengthening of the wheelbase, from 2989mm to 3239mm.
The ID Buzz LWB offers buyers three different interior arrangements: a five-seater, a six-seater, and a seven-seater with a two-plus-three-plus-two layout. UK models will come as standard with a five-seat layout, with the six-seat and seven-seat layouts available as an option. A Cargo commercial van derivative is also planned.
The cabin features a new central infotainment display measuring 12.9in, up from 10.0in. The touch-sensitive sliders for the air conditioning and audio volume also receive illumination for easier adjustment at night. The panoramic sunroof features an electronically controlled liquid-crystal function to switch from transparent to opaque via a slider controller in the headliner.
Performance and Battery
The ID Buzz LWB will initially be sold in rear-wheel-drive form with 282bhp and up to 413lb ft of torque. Volkswagen has claimed a 0-62mph time of 7.9sec and a top speed limited to 99mph. Buyers can choose a 77kWh or 85kWh battery, with both offering 11kW AC and 200kW DC charging capability. No official energy consumption or range claims have been revealed yet.
Looking forward to 2024, Volkswagen says the top-of-the-line, four-wheel-drive, long-wheelbase ID Buzz GTX will offer up to 355bhp and a 0-62mph time of 6.4sec.
Production and Availability
Volkswagen plans to sell the ID Buzz LWB in traditional markets such as the US and Canada, which don’t take the standard-wheelbase ID Buzz. LWB production will take place alongside the standard model at the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles manufacturing plant in Hanover, Germany.
Secondary Headers:
Design and Features
Performance and Battery
Production and Availability