Volkswagen has finally revealed the pricing for its much-anticipated 2025 ID Buzz electric van, and while the sticker shock might be real at first glance, it’s worth digging deeper to understand where that cost is coming from.
Yes, the starting price of $61,545 is undeniably steep, but it aligns well with the competition, particularly when you consider the features and the fact that the ID Buzz is not just any van—it’s a retro-inspired, all-electric take on the classic VW bus, a design enthusiasts have been waiting decades to see reborn.
When you compare the ID Buzz to its closest rival, the Kia EV9, which is also a three-row, boxy electric vehicle, the pricing starts to make more sense. Both vehicles are packed with features, and when similarly equipped, their prices are nearly identical. Moreover, the ID Buzz isn’t just competing on practicality; it’s bringing a hefty dose of style and personality to the table, which is a big part of its appeal.
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Now, if you’re comparing it to traditional minivans, the ID Buzz is more expensive, but it’s not that far off. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, for instance, is priced from $52,750 and can climb into the mid-$60,000 range, especially when loaded with options. However, the Pacifica blends a gasoline engine with electric power, offering only 32 miles of electric-only range, compared to the ID Buzz’s fully electric drivetrain.
Volkswagen will offer the 2025 ID Buzz in three trims: Pro S, Pro S Plus, and 1st Edition. The entry-level Pro S is well-equipped, boasting features like 20-inch wheels, a 91-kWh battery, a 12.9-inch touchscreen, and a host of tech amenities including wireless device charging, adaptive cruise control, and full-LED exterior lighting. Despite this, buyers will find limited customization options with only three paint colors and two interior schemes available. It starts at $61,545, including the destination charge, and offers an EPA-estimated range of 234 miles on a single charge.
Stepping up to the Pro S Plus trim brings additional features and the option for dual-motor all-wheel drive, increasing the vehicle’s power to 335 hp. The Pro S Plus also introduces more luxury, including a head-up display, an upgraded harman/kardon audio system, and a Euro-style tow hitch. This trim starts at $65,045 for the rear-wheel-drive version and $69,545 for the all-wheel-drive model.
For those looking for something exclusive, the 1st Edition trim offers unique touches like special 20-inch wheels, a two-tone paint job, and a Dune interior scheme. This launch-only edition comes loaded with features, including a panoramic sunroof and power-sliding rear doors. The 1st Edition is priced at $67,045 for rear-wheel drive and $71,545 for all-wheel drive.
In terms of competition, the ID Buzz stands alone as the only all-electric minivan currently on the market, and its design is clearly meant to appeal to those looking for something more than just a practical family hauler. While the Kia EV9 offers slightly more range and a larger battery option, the ID Buzz brings a unique blend of nostalgia, modern tech, and electric efficiency.
That said, the ID Buzz’s pricing puts it in the same bracket as some high-end SUVs, including the Rivian R1S, which starts at $75,900 and offers more power, range, and all-wheel-drive as standard. The question remains whether buyers will see the ID Buzz as a worthwhile investment in a lifestyle vehicle rather than just another electric minivan. With its imminent release this fall, and considering Volkswagen’s strategies to manage pricing and demand, the ID Buzz is likely to enjoy strong initial sales, especially among VW aficionados and early adopters. However, as the market settles, the high MSRP may become a more significant factor in its overall success.
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