Following the launch of the ID.4 GTX and ID.5 GTX in 2021, Volkswagen doubled its range of high-performance electric vehicles last week. The ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer are now closely followed by a sporty electric van from the VW Commercial Vehicles division. Prepare to meet the ID. Buzz GTX, which represents a more powerful iteration of the modern Microbus.
The Euro-bound van aimed at families who are always in a hurry comes standard with all-wheel drive thanks to two electric motors. Customers can choose between a standard wheelbase version combined with a 79 kWh battery and a longer wheelbase model boasting a higher usable energy content of 86 kWh.
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The pair of motors is good for a total system output of 335 horsepower, enabling a sprint to 62 mph in just six and a half seconds for both versions. Flat, the VW ID. Buzz GTX will reach an electronically regulated speed of 99 mph.
Stick to the standard ID. Buzz GTX and you will be able to tow up to 3,968 pounds, while the extended derivative with the larger battery can only haul 3,527 pounds. VW doesn’t specify combined torque, but it does mention that the rear-mounted motor is rated at 413 lb-ft while the front motor delivers 99 lb-ft.
The maximum charging power will depend on the battery since the smaller pack supports 185 kW while the upgraded pack can take 200 kW. The base battery takes about 25 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 percent, while the larger one takes less than 30 minutes.
As with other GTX models, the high-performance ID. Buzz gets an assortment of styling tweaks with redesigned bumpers, a honeycomb grille, and a stunning cherry red paint job. Exclusive standard 19-inch wheels are also offered with two optional sets of new 21-inch alloys. What makes it stand out more are those boomerang-shaped lower lights, along with dark accents, a black headliner, and sporty seats.
Elsewhere, the family vehicle gets a slightly larger touchscreen (12.9 inches instead of 12 inches), a new optional head-up display and illuminated touch sliders for climate and volume. Opt for the long-wheelbase model and VW sells for an extra fee its largest-ever panoramic sunroof, which changes from opaque to transparent at the touch of a button.
Identity. Buzz GTX will go on sale in Europe this summer.
VW will bring the electric van to the US later this year, exclusively with a longer wheelbase, three-row seats, an 86 kWh battery, but without the GTX badge. The equivalent US model will have the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup. The U.S.-bound model will be imported from Hanover, Germany, so it’s unlikely to qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit.
