The ID. Buzz’s Ups and Downs
When the Volkswagen ID. Buzz was first presented as a concept in 2017, and it created a lot of, well, buzz. Its design was clearly inspired by the Type 2 Microbus, and it oozed nostalgic themes here and there. More surprisingly, VW actually went ahead with its production, and it was meant to be an EV from the start.
Production commenced in 2022, with Europe being the first market to get it. However, the U.S. had to wait until the 2025 model year to get it. But for all the hype, sales weren’t spectacular, to say the least. Its first full year of sale saw just 6,140 cars leave the dealer lots in 2025. Then, Volkswagen pulled the plug on the ID. Buzz after just one model year in the U.S., but vowed it’ll return in 2027.
Volkswagen
Gap Year
Volkswagen said that it won’t be selling the ID. Buzz in the U.S. for the 2026 model year. At the time, that decision was made to clear out inventory, which was another way of saying it wasn’t quite selling as well as the company hoped. Again, it was slated to return for 2027, but those plans have been pushed back yet again.
According to a report from Automotive News, the electric retro minivan will relaunch sometime in the first half of 2027 instead of fall 2026. That makes it a 2028 model year vehicle instead of a ’27. If it’s any consolation, at least it’s coming out some time next year, but that also means the ID. Buzz skips yet another model year. Logically, the next question would be: Why the delay?
Well, Volkswagen didn’t say much other than ‘The 2028 ID Buzz brings together meaningful customer-focused enhancements in a single launch, further elevating the ownership experience and strengthening the vehicle’s appeal.’ It doesn’t really answer anything, but for those who missed their chance to buy one the first time, it’s something to hold on to.
What to Expect
VW promised a host of changes to the ID. Buzz. Some of it includes more physical controls on the steering wheel, a NACS charging port (with a CCS adapter), and a new Tourer model aimed at camper types. We can also expect new infotainment software, enhanced vehicle-to-load capabilities, and a one-pedal driving mode.
A Pro S 4Motion model will also be added, and all-wheel drive will be an option for the Tourer. That said, the biggest criticism of the ID. Buzz was its price. Before it was pulled from showrooms, it carried a base price of $59,995. It’s possible that it was a factor behind the initially slow sales in 2025, along with its somewhat limited range of 234 miles.
Should VW actually lower the base prices and eke more miles out of the batteries, the ID. Buzz might find more success in the U.S. We’ll find out more about the 2028 models in the coming months, as VW says it will be keeping the market posted for any updates.
Volkswagen
Â
