Volkswagen has revealed the power output of the forthcoming GTX variant of the ID. Buzz people carrier, along with details of the interior layout for a new long-wheelbase seven-seat model. The GTX and longer model will be incorporated into the ID. Buzz range alongside the existing MPV and Cargo van. A California camper version is also in the offing.
Two motors with up to 340hp and AWD
Volkswagen's design chief Kai Gruenitz revealed to Autocar this week that the GTX version of the ID. Buzz will receive a significant upgrade: "The GTX will be a cool high-performance version, with 250kW, a dedicated interior, new exterior colours and some additional features." It's expected that, as with the VW ID.4/ID.5 GTX, the ID. Buzz GTX will use an electric motor on each axle for all-wheel drive. That 250kW peak power translates into 340hp.
For comparison, the regular model has a single rear-mounted electric motor developing 204hp - and its usable battery capacity is 77kWh. It's known that Volkswagen has a higher capacity battery in the works for the ID. Buzz and presumably also for the forthcoming ID.7 - the latter mooted to have a range between charges as long as 700 kilometres.
Greater interior flexibility
Gruenitz also confirmed that the long-wheelbase ID. Buzz (featuring a 25cm stretch) will have a much more versatile interior, with seven seats in three rows, and the ability to remove them all. It's also rumoured that these will be fixed to a rail system, as in the Volkswagen Multivan, allowing them to rotate, slide and swivel, giving even more versatility.
California dreaming
Volkswagen has openly stated that a camper version of the ID. Buzz is in the pipeline, and Gruenitz offered a brief update on what is likely to be badged the ID. California: "The first concept is being worked on now. It's interesting what's possible and what would be cool and usable."
This variant is unlikely to be on the road until at least 2025.
Irish pricing
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz starts at €65,890 in Ireland right now with four trim levels available - Life, Family, Tech and Max. It's expected that the GTX specification will be offered in two different trim levels and top the line-up in terms of pricing, while the long-wheelbase variant should run parallel to the existing five-seat model with a modest price premium.