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Last Updated on: 10th May 2025, 04:53 am
I clearly love the Volkswagen ID. Buzz. As I mentioned in my video interview with some new owners, I think it’s now my favorite electric vehicle (i.e., favorite vehicle). It’s a perfect kind of blend of the iconic hippie van and a fun, modern electric vehicle. The colors are absorbing, and some of the little features look useful. Not everyone agrees, but I’m finding more people like or love this minivan than don’t.
A couple of recent award panels have clearly taken my side.
2025 World Car Design of the Year
At the World Car of the Year awards, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz was awarded the 2025 World Car Design of the Year. This was announced recently at the 2025 New York International Auto Show. “The ID. Buzz, Volkswagen’s modern reinterpretation of its iconic Microbus, stood out among three finalists in the World Car Design category, showcasing its innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and all-electric performance,” Volkswagen of America writes.
“We set out to create an electric vehicle that not only pays homage to the iconic Microbus but also propels us into the future of automotive design,” said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “The ID. Buzz was always intended to be more than just transportation; it’s our brand’s electric soul, a halo that radiates fresh energy and excitement. The ID. Buzz is reconnecting us with our roots while boldly stepping into the electric era, and this award is recognition of that vision.”
More than 100 journalists determine the award winners for the World Car of the Year awards.
One of the Best New Cars of 2025
In addition, prominent auto website Autotrader included the ID. Buzz on its list of the top 10 Best New Cars of 2025.
“The VW ID. Buzz is about more than just its jaw-dropping design,” said Autotrader Editor Eric Brandt. “To me, it’s exciting because the minivan segment finally has an EV. Although this will likely be driven as a fashion statement more than a family hauler, it’s still good to see my favorite segment get an all-electric option.”
“The ID. Buzz isn’t just a throwback; it’s a forward leap. This inclusion on Autotrader’s 2025 list proves we’ve nailed the balance,” said Andrew Savvas, Volkswagen Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, North American Region. “The ID. Buzz provides that emotional connection, that spark of joy when you see it, and then the realization it’s a seriously capable EV. We’ve tapped into something special – a vehicle that resonates on a deeper level while still delivering on the practical front.”
I have to agree.
Note that three other electric vehicles also made the top 10 list — the Volvo EX30, the Hyundai IONIQ 9, and the Cadillac Escalade IQ.
The ID. Buzz hasn’t won a CleanTechnica Car of the Year award (steep competition for that), but it was a nominee for the 2023 CleanTechnica Car of the Year—Europe award. I thought back then it might have been a bit of a stretch as a nominee, but sales are turning out to be pretty good, and I am impressed with how much Volkswagen has carried forward the concept ID. Buzz and the years of hype around it into the actual marketplace. Kudos to Volkswagen.
Related CleanTechnica exclusives:
Road Trippin’ to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, in an ID. Buzz
Early Owner Reviews of Volkswagen ID. Buzz — CleanTechnica Video
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