Volkswagen ID. Buzz long-wheelbase version arrives with seven seats

Although it is not aiming to match the figures achieved by its spiritual predecessor, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz is becoming a cult car for the modern age.

Now, as it prepares to return to the North American market-which has gone 20 years without a VW Bus-it is expected to achieve even greater success.

That return will come with the launch of the long-wheelbase ID. Buzz, which introduces a third row of seats.

With an additional 250 mm in its wheelbase, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz grows to 4.96 m in length. Naturally, the main benefit is the extra room inside.

It now offers three seating rows and a total of seven seats. The cabin also gains a total load capacity of 2,469 litres.

Another new feature is the panoramic glass roof, inspired by the fabric roof fitted to the original model from the 1950s. Volkswagen says that, at 1.5 m², it is the largest it has ever made.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz gains more than extra size

As well as gaining extra centimetres, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz also receives more power. Until now, the sole version available had a rear-mounted 150 kWh (204 hp) motor and a 77 kWh battery.

The long Volkswagen ID. Buzz receives a new 210 kW (286 hp) motor-the same unit seen in the ID. 7-an 85 kWh battery and a new heat pump. In other words, it delivers greater performance, range and efficiency.

It reaches 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds (10.2 seconds for the short version), while top speed rises from 145 km/h to 160 km/h. However, the available range with the new, larger battery remains unknown (417 km with the 77 kWh unit).

GTX confirmed

There is one further surprise to finish with. While revealing few details so far, Volkswagen has confirmed that a GTX version of the ID. Buzz is scheduled for 2024.

It will feature two electric motors, one on each axle, and four-wheel drive, producing 250 kW (340 hp). In this case, the 0–100 km/h sprint will take 6.4 seconds.

When will it arrive?

The long Volkswagen ID. Buzz is currently being presented in the United States and Canada, where it will be the only variant sold.

It will also be offered as an option in Europe, although its official unveiling will take place at the next VW Bus Festival, held from 23 to 25 of this month in Hanover, Germany.

Its market launch will take a little longer, however, and is expected only at the beginning of 2024.