New for the 2025 model year, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz is the first all-electric minivan sold in the United States, and the German carmaker’s first passenger van sold here since the Chrysler-built Routan was discontinued after the 2014 model year.
How Big is the ID. Buzz?
Electric Minivan
Volkswagen’s new electric van is cute as a bug (pun intended), but is it as practical as other minivans available here in the U.S?
A quick glance might suggest that the ID. Buzz is smaller than other minivans, and that, given its quirky nature, it may not be up to the serious tasks of hauling remodeling supplies or a high-school wrestling team. And while the ID. Buzz is plenty comfortable for six passengers, it struck us as being a little shorter in length than other vehicles in the class. So, we broke out the measuring tape…
Okay, we didn’t measure anything. Here we’re comparing specs and dimensions as shared by each van’s manufacturer. Check the chart out:
Note: In cases where maker specs ranged due the inclusion of a sunroof (or not) we shared the no-sunroof numbers.
Three thoughts on the chart:
These Vans are Pretty Close in Size
All the vans listed are close in terms of overall space. In fact, with two exceptions, we would not make a buying decision based on these numbers alone. Every van on the list would serve an owner well in terms of passenger comfort and passenger space. But…
Buzz Seats Just Two in Back
With a 3rd-row seat limited to just two occupants, the I.D. Buzz is at a disadvantage to the other vans on the list. That said, that Buzz’s 3rd-row bench is the roomiest of the bunch, serving up the most legroom.
No Cargo Space in Back
The ID. Buzz offers—by far—the least space aft of the 3rd-row. Volkswagen makes up (sort of) for the limited space with a nice cargo-divider shelf and a pair of good-looking baskets. But ultimately, the space deficiency will matter if a Buzz owner is looking to take six folks on a journey that includes luggage.
Remember the ID. Buzz is Electric
Regarding long trips, the ID Buzz’s relatively limited range (remember that this stylish VW is electric) of 231-234 miles means stopping relatively often to charge.
CG Says:
We really like the ID. Buzz, and for most purposes it will perform as well as other U.S.-market minivans–it’s also the most entertaining van to drive. But if you need to haul more than six passengers, or cram a lot of stuff aft of the rearmost seating row, the ID. Buzz may not be your best minivan choice.
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2025 Minivan Pictures
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