Volkswagen ID.Buzz Pro

Overview

The Volkswagen ID.Buzz Pro, a German-built electric marvel, wrapped up its production run in 2024, making it a sought-after gem on the used market. This retro-futuristic icon brilliantly reimagines VW's legendary Microbus for the electric age, blending nostalgic charm with modern EV practicality. The Pro trim was the sweet spot, offering a balanced package of range and features for five occupants. You can snag one of these cool electric vans for around €41,000 on Europe's pre-owned market, making it a stylish and uniquely spacious family hauler that truly stands out.

What's New for 2024?

The 2024 Volkswagen ID.Buzz Pro marked the final production year for this initial passenger version, so "new" features are more about its ultimate specification before bowing out. It carried forward its well-loved design and tech, including the updated software an earlier OTA update brought for improved charging and infotainment. For its last hurrah, the Pro trim continued to offer its compelling single-motor, rear-wheel-drive setup and the sizable 77 kWh battery pack. Essentially, the 2024 model solidified the Pro's established strengths rather than introducing major overhauls, as VW geared up for future ID.Buzz variants.

Design & Exterior

The ID.Buzz Pro turns heads with its undeniably cool, retro-futuristic design, a brilliant nod to the classic Type 2. Think two-tone paint options, a friendly 'face' with those expressive LED headlights, and a massive VW badge. The Pro trim typically rolled on stylish alloy wheels, enhancing its premium van appeal. It’s a big softie, measuring 4712 mm long, 1985 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and standing 1927 mm tall. The short overhangs and smooth, aerodynamic lines aren't just for show; they contribute to its efficiency and surprisingly nimble feel.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the ID.Buzz Pro, and you're greeted by a bright, airy cabin that’s both minimalist and funky, often featuring recycled materials for a sustainable touch. The five-seat layout offers oodles of space for passengers to stretch out. For your gear, there's a massive 1121 litres of boot space, expanding to a cavernous 2205 litres with the rear seats tumbled. While there's no frunk to speak of, the interior storage cubbies are plentiful. Tech-wise, you get VW's digital cockpit and a central touchscreen (typically 10 or 12-inch) with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Performance & Driving Experience

Don't let its van shape fool you; the ID.Buzz Pro offers a surprisingly zesty driving experience! Its rear-mounted 150 kW (310 Nm) Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor delivers instant torque, whisking this cool bus from 0-100 km/h in 10.2 seconds, topping out at 145 km/h. It’s quite agile for its size, with a super-tight turning circle that’s a godsend in town, and can even tow up to 1000 kg (braked). Ride comfort is generally plush. Regenerative braking is smooth, with a 'B' mode for stronger recuperation to help extend that precious range.

Range, Battery & Charging

The ID.Buzz Pro packs a 77 kWh usable battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of around 362 km – pretty decent for a boxy beast! Efficiency is rated at 4.7 km/kWh. Charging up is straightforward: at home on an 11 kW AC wallbox (via its CCS Type 2 port), expect a full charge in about 7-7.5 hours. Hit a public DC fast charger, and the Pro can slurp juice at up to 170 kW, zapping the 400V battery from 5 to 80% in roughly 30 minutes. Some models also feature bi-directional charging capabilities.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is sorted in the ID.Buzz Pro, which proudly wears a top-notch 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Volkswagen didn't skimp on the safety kit; standard features typically include Front Assist with emergency braking and pedestrian/cyclist detection, Lane Assist, and a driver alert system. Depending on spec and options ticked, you could also get goodies like Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Travel Assist for semi-autonomous driving, Park Assist Plus with memory function for automated parking, and Area View cameras, making this family bus a very safe space indeed.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Volkswagen typically backs its EVs in Europe with a 2-year unlimited mileage warranty for the vehicle itself. More importantly, the high-voltage battery in the ID.Buzz Pro is covered for 8 years or 160,000 km, whichever comes first, with a guarantee it’ll retain at least 70% of its usable capacity. The electric powertrain components are usually covered under the main vehicle warranty. Scheduled maintenance is minimal, as expected with an EV, mainly focusing on brakes, tyres, and cabin filters. Reliability has been generally good for VW's MEB-platform cars.