Volkswagen ID. Buzz GTX: Finally an Electric Kombi, but Too Pricey?

Volkswagen’s ID. Buzz GTX is finally here, and it’s more than just a nostalgic nod to the past. While its design channels the spirit of the original Kombi, the technology and flexibility behind it position this electric van as one of the most distinctive EV offerings in New Zealand today.

The local range spans four versions: the ID. Buzz Pro in short- and long-wheelbase configurations, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive GTX, and the Buzz Cargo van. Pricing kicks off at $99,990 + GST for the Cargo SWB and climbs to $149,990 + ORC for the range-topping GTX. Passenger versions—the Pro SWB and LWB—are priced at $129,990 and $139,990 respectively. All offer five, six, or seven-seat options depending on layout.

Rather than loading up yards with inventory, Volkswagen New Zealand is taking a to-order approach. Buyers can configure their vehicle via a Porsche-like system, choosing from over 2,000 combinations of length, seating, colour, trim, and wheels. While this customisation means a lead time of around five months, early adopters don’t seem to mind—none of the first 35 vehicles were alike.

We tested the flagship GTX, which offers a long wheelbase, dual motors, and all-wheel drive. From behind the wheel, it quickly became clear this isn’t just a style exercise—it’s a genuinely capable EV.

EV Power with Presence

The GTX gets an 86 kWh usable battery (91 kWh gross) and produces 250 kW of total power, split between two motors: 560 Nm to the rear and 134 Nm up front. WLTP range is quoted at 396 km, and real-world consumption during our drive hovered between 20–22 kWh/100 km. Acceleration is brisk for something so boxy—0–100 km/h takes just 6.5 seconds. That’s a long way from the 30 seconds it took the original Type 2 van to get there (on a good day).

It rides on MacPherson struts up front and an independent multi-link rear, making for a surprisingly composed and confident drive. Body roll is controlled, the steering is responsive, and the low centre of gravity from the battery helps it feel planted. While not pretending to be a GTI, it’s one of the most engaging vans we’ve driven—EV or otherwise.

Charging and Range

The ID. Buzz GTX supports 11 kW 

AC charging and up to 185 kW DC fast charging, making a 5–80% top-up possible in around 30 minutes. Charging infrastructure is still a work in progress in parts of New Zealand, but for those with access to high-speed chargers, the Buzz’s setup is future-ready.

Tech-Forward Interior

Inside, the Buzz offers a spacious, practical, and highly flexible cabin. 

A 12.9-inch touchscreen dominates the dash, with updated software 

and the new IDA voice assistant powered by ChatGPT. VW’s infamous capacitive steering buttons proved unproblematic during our drive.

There are clever touches throughout—removable storage between the front seats (complete with bottle opener and ice scraper), fold-out tables in the second row, USB ports at nearly every seat, and independent rear climate controls. Our seven-seat test model featured a 2-3-2 layout, with excellent comfort even in the third row.

Rear seat access isn’t perfect, with limited space to climb into the third row unless the second row is moved—but for many families, the SWB variant may make more sense. One highly recommended option is the electrochromic panoramic glass roof, which switches from clear to opaque at the tap of a control, enhancing comfort and ambiance.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Volkswagen hasn’t held back on safety tech. Standard features include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise with stop and go, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera. Travel Assist also brings active lane centring, offering added reassurance on longer trips.

Where It Fits

The ID. Buzz GTX is a unique proposition in the EV space. It isn’t cheap, but it stacks up well against rivals like the Kia EV9, Mercedes-Benz EQV, and Ford Tourneo Custom EV. With its style, spec, and configurability, it offers something few others do: true character in an electric people mover.

Whether you’re upgrading from an SUV, downsizing from a Model X, or just want to stand out in the carpark, the ID. Buzz GTX is an EV with soul—and substance.