Van and Commercial Vehicle Awards 2025: Best Van-based MPV
With seating for seven adults and a long range, the stretched version of the Volkswagen ID Buzz makes this former What Car? Car of the Year even more compelling...
Volkswagen ID Buzz LWB
Priced from £59,545 (incl. VAT and OTR) Range 293 miles C02 emissions 0g/km Power 282bhp Torque 413lb ft
The all-electric Volkswagen ID Buzz turned more than a few heads when it was launched – an MPV that somehow combines retro looks with a funky, futuristic appearance, and was capable enough to win the overall What Car? Car of the Year Award in 2023. With more than a hint of the original ‘Bulli’ flower power camper van, the Buzz continues to attract attention even though it’s been around for a couple of years now.
If there was one criticism, it was that, despite looking like it could accommodate a large family, the Buzz only had seating for five, albeit backed by a huge boot. The introduction of the long wheelbase version now satisfies the demand from those needing a couple of extra places from family or friends.
The rear of the Buzz LWB is spacious, with plenty of room for passengers and luggage, and although seven seats are standard, Volkswagen provides the option of six luxurious individual seats in three rows of two, or, for multi-purpose use, five seats and a simply enormous area for luggage or goods. Access is made easy with twin sliding side doors and in the front, the driver is blessed with a high driving position and excellent visibility thanks to the large and deep windows.
The Buzz LWB comes with a larger battery than its shorter sibling, the 79kWh pack providing an official range of 293 miles between charges. The rear wheels are driven by a 282bhp electric motor, allowing for brisk progress, with the Buzz achieving the 0-62mph sprint in 7.9 sec with the instantly available torque that electric power provides. When used wisely, the regenerative braking allows for smooth progress with little need to use the brakes, all while putting charge back into the battery.
Even though the Buzz is available as an SWB van, this MPV looks and feels like it was designed as a passenger-carrying vehicle first and a commercial vehicle second, unlike the Ford Tourneo Custom or Mercedes V-Class. It looks great and gives the driver and passenger a comfortable and spacious environment, whether used for a school run or for a long weekend away with the paraphernalia that entails.
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