Back in the 1960s and ‘70s, the counterculture generation quickly took to the quirky and boxy VW Type 2, or Microbus, for its enormous space and the collective energy it inspired. Soon, the idiosyncratic ride was a hit and widely known as the “Hippie Bus.”
Nearly 20 years later, staying true to the powerful ethos of the original, the Microbus has been electrified as the ID.Buzz, invoking the retro design of yesteryear, notably the rear air vents similar to the former incarnations’ cooling slots.
Our six-passenger test-drive version featured dual motors producing 335 horsepower and 413 pounds-feet of torque, delivered via a single-speed transmission. Beneath the floor sits a 91kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a range of around 231 miles, compatible with Level 1 (120V), Level 2 (240V) and DC fast charging (up to 80 percent in 30 minutes). Buyers can join the Electrify America Pass+ plan for three years to access special per-kWh rates. Eco, comfort, sport and custom modes are easily selectable. The vehicle is not eligible for a federal tax credit.
Like the original, its shape is an attention-getter that stops you in your tracks. At the front and rear of the body are illuminated light bars featuring a large, centered VW emblem flanked by LED projector headlights. Our ride featured an eye-catching two-tone Mahi green and candy white interior.
Settling into the 12-way power heated/cooled synthetic leather seats, drivers and front passengers are greeted by a configurable digital display—the ID.Cockpit. A 12.9-inch touchscreen for infotainment control sits atop the dashboard. Passenger volume of 160.1 cubic feet is complemented by ample bins and cubbies, including hidden storage in the cargo area.
By The Numbers
Tires: 235/50R20
Wheelbase: 127.5 inches
Length: 195.4 inches
Width: 78.1 inches
Height: 76.2 inches
Weight: 6,197 pounds
Tow capacity: 3,500 pounds
MPGe: 87/74/80
(city and highway/combined)
Playful Easter eggs include play and pause symbols on the stainless-steel pedal caps, removable center console dividers that double as an ice scraper and bottle opener, an umbrella and VW Bus silhouette under the rear wiper, winking faces molded on screw covers, passenger assist hooks and coat hangers, a world map etched on the center console drawer, fold-out cupholders and second-row windows that open like small portholes.
Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, front and rear curtain airbags, rearview camera, front/rear park distance control, electronic stability control, tire pressure monitoring, daytime running lights and IQ.Drive, which adds forward collision warning with auto braking and pedestrian detection, blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert, lane assist and adaptive cruise control.
The updated model pays tribute to the iconic spirit of the original Woodstock era vehicle. Now fully electric, it lets new owners embrace the socially conscious spirit of generations who took the original on the open road—now in a more environmentally friendly way.
Nitish S. Rele, the editor/publisher of Motoring Tampa Bay and Khaas Baat, can be reached at motoringtampabay@gmail.com
