ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS ON THE NEW VW ID BUZZ GTX

When Volkswagen announced the Buzz it did create quite a stir; this globally unique electric vehicle is now expanding and updating with the ID. Buzz Pro which features a longer wheelbase, a new 86 kW battery and a new high-efficiency drive motor offering a powerful 210 kW (286 PS) and the range topping GTX. With a longer wheelbase comes a huge interior for up to seven people and the trappings which people tend to transport. The new flagship model of the range is the GTX with 250 kW (340 PS). Not only does this new model deliver performance, all-wheel drive is standard and it has high towing capacities and it is configurable with normal or long wheelbase. The normal wheelbase version is powered by a new 79kWh battery; the version with long wheelbase is automatically equipped with the larger 86 kWh battery. With the 86 kWh battery, the maximum WLTP range of the new long wheelbase version ranges between 453km and 487 km, (281 and 302m) depending on equipment. When it comes to charging, as an example, the 79 kWh battery charges from 10 to 80 per cent in less than 30 minutes at maximum charging capacity while the corresponding value for the 86 kW batteries is also less than 30 minutes due to its higher charging capacity.

All new ID. Buzz models have received a major hardware and software update; a completely new generation of Infotainment systems with intuitive menu navigation and very fast computing power. The touchscreen is now 12.9 inches instead of 12 inches, new are the illuminated touch bar for temperature and volume control and the new IDA voice assistant is operated with natural voice commands. It not only allows control of numerous vehicle functions, but also provides answers to general knowledge questions using the online connection to databases such as Wikipedia; all very clever, perhaps just too much for some. Like to keep fit while driving; I could do with some of that; another new feature is the Wellness app that uses preconfigured programmes to adjust various vehicle functions with the aim of improving well-being while driving or charging. This I like –  the ID. Buzz can now be ordered with a head-up display and there are also new assist systems, including Park Assist Pro with a function for remote parking via smartphone. The exit warning system is another new addition and warns about vehicles and bicycles approaching from the rear when a door is opened.

The new GTX differs from the Pro models both visually and in terms of equipment; it features a unique front end treatment which assists in giving this vehicle a helping of on road presence. The all dark body elements are finished in high-gloss black and the Solna 20 inch alloy wheel is standard; also fitted as standard: sports running gear and IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. A new paint finish, cherry red is exclusive to the GTX and the interior equipment has also been customised; such as a black headliner; the seats have a GTX-specific design with red topstitching and the multifunction steering wheel has been given a GTX logo. According to Volkswagen, the lithium-ion battery integrated in the vehicle floor lowers the centre of gravity and reduces body roll to a minimum and the battery weight is spread centrally within the vehicle, thus ensuring neutral handling. Yet another plus, the turning circle is small due to the large wheel housings and the compact front axle.

Born out of a concept which was first shown in 2017 at the North American International Auto Show; the first production version was shown in March 2022 and I have no doubt the US buyers have really taken to this vehicle which they class as a minivan and on a number of times when I have visited the States I have been surprised at the number of such vehicles.

There is no doubt Volkswagen have created quite a Buzz with this rather unique vehicle- I like it.

Ian Lynas