2027 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Review

Volkswagen’s Iconic Electric Kombi Gets Smarter for 2027

By Jeff Gibbs

The Icon Returns—Now Smarter Than Ever

Few vehicles have generated as much nostalgia as the Volkswagen ID. Buzz. Inspired by the legendary Kombi, the all-electric people mover has successfully blended retro styling with modern technology, appealing to families, adventurers and Volkswagen enthusiasts alike. For 2027, Volkswagen has updated the ID. Buzz with a series of thoughtful improvements aimed at enhancing comfort, technology and versatility rather than completely reinventing the formula.

The most significant addition is the introduction of a new Tourer variant, designed for camping and road-trip enthusiasts, alongside software upgrades, expanded trim choices and additional standard equipment. The changes reinforce the ID. Buzz as one of the most distinctive electric vehicles currently on the market.

Familiar Styling with Fresh Details

Visually, the 2027 ID. Buzz remains unmistakably a modern interpretation of Volkswagen’s iconic Kombi. Its rounded front end, oversized Volkswagen badge, expansive glasshouse and bold two-tone paint options continue to turn heads wherever it travels.

New exterior colours, updated alloy wheel designs and additional trim options freshen the range without compromising its timeless appeal. The retro-inspired design remains one of the vehicle’s strongest selling points and continues to separate it from the increasingly generic appearance of many electric SUVs.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the ID. Buzz continues to offer one of the airiest cabins in the EV market. Large windows provide exceptional visibility, while the flat floor and flexible seating create an open, lounge-like atmosphere.

For 2027, Volkswagen has introduced its latest infotainment software, delivering a faster, more intuitive user experience with improved responsiveness and additional functionality.

Depending on the variant, available features include:

• Large central touchscreen
• Digital driver’s display
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Over-the-air software updates
• Wireless phone charging
• Multi-zone climate control
• Premium sound system
• Panoramic electrochromic smart glass roof
• 360-degree camera
• Captain’s chairs on selected models
• Multiple USB-C charging ports
• Comprehensive driver assistance systems

Material quality remains excellent throughout, with a modern minimalist design that feels both practical and premium.

New Tourer Variant

The biggest addition for 2027 is undoubtedly the new ID. Buzz Tourer 4Motion.

Borrowing heavily from Volkswagen’s European camper concepts, the Tourer transforms the electric van into a compact touring vehicle suitable for overnight adventures.

Features include:

• Fold-out mattress and sleeping platform
• Window privacy blinds
• Front window ventilation panels
• Folding outdoor table and chairs
• Overnight Mode software
• Retractable tow hitch
• Electrochromic panoramic roof
• Exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels

The result is an electric vehicle capable of transporting the family during the week before becoming a comfortable weekend escape vehicle.

Powertrain and Performance

Volkswagen has retained the proven electric drivetrain introduced in earlier models.

Depending on the variant, buyers can choose between:

• Rear-wheel drive
• Dual-motor 4Motion all-wheel drive

While the 2027 models receive software refinements, the core battery and motor combinations remain largely unchanged. Volkswagen has instead concentrated on improving usability and technology rather than chasing outright performance gains.

Acceleration remains smooth and effortless, with instant electric torque making city driving exceptionally relaxing. The low-mounted battery pack provides a low centre of gravity, giving the ID. Buzz surprisingly composed handling despite its tall body.

Driving Experience

The ID. Buzz has never attempted to be a sports vehicle.

Instead, it focuses on comfort, refinement and ease of driving.

Light steering makes manoeuvring simple, while the electric drivetrain delivers near-silent operation. Ride quality is supple, absorbing rough urban streets with ease, while highway cruising is relaxed thanks to minimal wind and drivetrain noise.

The 4Motion variants provide additional confidence on wet roads and loose gravel, making them particularly attractive for touring enthusiasts.

Updated software also improves one-pedal driving, regenerative braking and overall energy management, helping maximise efficiency during everyday driving.

Battery, Range and Efficiency

Volkswagen has not introduced a significantly larger battery for the 2027 update.

Instead, efficiency improvements come primarily through software optimisation.

Depending on the model, expected driving range remains similar to previous versions, with real-world touring capability suited to long-distance travel when combined with Australia’s expanding fast-charging infrastructure.

Powertrain

• Engine:Single or dual electric motors
• Drive:Rear-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive
• Transmission:Single-speed automatic
• Fuel Type:Electricity
• Fuel Consumption:0L/100km
• Energy Consumption:Official Australian figures to be confirmed
• Tailpipe Emissions:Zero

What Sets the 2027 Model Apart?

Rather than introducing a complete redesign, Volkswagen has concentrated on improving the ownership experience.

Highlights include:

• New Tourer camping-focused model
• Updated infotainment software
• Expanded trim lineup
• Additional 4Motion variants
• New exterior colours
• New alloy wheel designs
• Enhanced overnight touring features
• Improved one-pedal driving
• Smarter battery and energy management

These refinements make the 2027 ID. Buzz feel more mature and more versatile while maintaining its unmistakable character.

Verdict

The 2027 Volkswagen ID. Buzz remains one of the most charismatic electric vehicles available. Its blend of nostalgic styling, spacious interior and advanced EV technology continues to set it apart from conventional people movers and SUVs.

The addition of the Tourer variant broadens its appeal even further, offering adventurous buyers a practical electric camper without sacrificing everyday usability.

While some buyers may have hoped for a larger battery or significantly longer driving range, Volkswagen’s focus on refinement, improved software and enhanced versatility ensures the ID. Buzz remains one of the most enjoyable and distinctive electric family vehicles on the market.

Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5)