Volkswagen has surprised the automotive industry by introducing its sporty GTX moniker to the Volkswagen ID Buzz, a popular MPV model. The ID Buzz GTX is the fourth model in Volkswagen’s electric lineup to receive the GTX treatment, following the ID 4 and ID 5 SUVs and ID 7 saloon/estate. The GTX badge brings a significant power boost, an additional motor for four-wheel drive, and various styling changes to make the ID Buzz stand out in the growing electric MPV market.
As part of a major 2024 update for the Buzz, Volkswagen has also added larger long-wheelbase (LWB) models alongside the standard short-wheelbase (SWB) Buzz. While the Buzz GTX is available in both wheelbase sizes in Europe, the UK will only receive the standard version. The ID Buzz GTX comes with either a 79kWh or an 86kWh battery, although official range figures have not been released yet. Charging speeds max out at 180kW for the smaller battery and 200kW for the larger battery, with a 20-minute charge from 20-80% for both models.
In true GTX fashion, the Buzz GTX boasts a significant power increase from 201bhp to 335bhp, along with 413lb ft of torque. It completes the 0-62mph sprint in just 6.1 seconds for the SWB model and 6.7 seconds for the LWB model, making it the most powerful Volkswagen bus ever seen. The Buzz GTX’s retro styling remains largely unchanged, except for a new honeycomb front grille, new air intakes, GTX badges, and various black exterior enhancements.
Inside, the Buzz GTX features GTX seats with electronic adjustment and memory function, a sportier GTX steering wheel with red stitching, and a choice of five- or six-seat layouts. The five-seat configuration offers an 1121-litre boot, expandable to 2123 litres with the rear seats folded. The six-seat layout sacrifices some cargo space, but the rear two seats can be removed entirely for additional space. The Buzz GTX comes with Volkswagen’s latest 5.2 software and a new 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is much snappier than before.
On the road, the Buzz GTX impresses with its power and all-wheel drive capability. However, despite its impressive statistics, it doesn’t feel as fast as other electric vehicles due to its substantial weight. The mid-range performance has improved significantly, making overtaking on faster roads effortless. The Buzz GTX provides a niche performance package for drivers who need to haul heavy loads, but it’s not designed to be a full-on performance vehicle like the GTI models.
In terms of ride and handling, the Buzz GTX maintains the maneuverability and composed drive of the standard Buzz, with added pace in both urban and rural environments. The 4WD system offers excellent grip, but the car’s weight and height are noticeable in faster corners. The Buzz GTX is not particularly aerodynamic, resulting in pronounced wind noise at higher speeds.
While the exact pricing of the Buzz GTX is yet to be revealed, it is expected to be significantly more expensive than the standard Buzz. Options such as a head-up display, electric sliding doors, and a panoramic sunroof will contribute to the higher price. Running costs are still uncertain, but a full battery is likely to offer between 240-250 miles of range.
Overall, the Buzz GTX is an endearing car with plenty of power and practicality. However, its unconfirmed price and range figures will ultimately determine its true value. Despite its sporty makeover, it may not feel special enough to justify the inevitable price increase over the standard Buzz. Furthermore, the UK market will miss out on the more useful LWB model. Potential buyers will have to wait until the Buzz GTX goes on sale next year for the full cost and official range figures.
