Volkswagen’s quirky ID. Buzz gains GTX treatment
April 2024
Set to become the most powerful Volkswagen people mover since the first Type 2 left the production line in 1950, the all-electric ID. Buzz range will soon be available in overseas markets in distinct GTX trim.
Offered in both standard and long-wheelbase body styles, the ID. Buzz GTX introduces two electric motors, one on each axle, as well as a pair of new batteries. Featuring 4Motion all-wheel drive by way of the ability to engage the front-mounted electric motor should slip be detected, the standard wheelbase ID. Buzz GTX is fitted with a new 79 kWh battery, while the long-wheelbase version gains an 86 kWh unit. These latest-generation batteries are capable of a 10 – 80% charge in just 26 minutes via a DC charging station.
Denoting the performance-focused derivative within a particular range of all-electric Volkswagen ID. vehicles, GTX versions gain suitably stand-out exterior styling and enhanced interior packaging compared with the respective standard models. Introduced in a new Chery Red colour with a contrasting Mono Silver Metallic top-half, the ID. Buzz GTX boasts a revised bumper application, that includes a honeycomb grille and new side intakes, as well as a bespoke LED signature lighting pattern – IQ. Light LED Matrix is standard fitment.
While 20-inch Solna alloy wheels are standard, this pinnacle bus will also be available with a choice of two 21-inch designs.
The interior of the ID. Buzz GTX siblings, standard and long-wheelbase, are distinguishable via a black headliner and seats covered with new ArtVelours Eco microfleece material, presented in a diamond pattern with red stitching. Synonymous with fast Volkswagens, additional red accenting can be found throughout the cabin.
A next-generation infotainment system with new menu navigation and graphics as well as faster processor power operates via an upgraded 12.9-inch display, while the new innovative IDA voice assistant additionally features ChatGPT integration (AI/artificial intelligence). Another new feature is a Wellness app that uses preconfigured programmes to adjust various vehicle functions to improve well-being while driving or charging.
Significantly, the standard wheelbase flagship ID. Buzz is available with either 5 seats - including a second-row bench – or 6 seats laid out as two dedicated second-row items, with two individual seats in a third row. The long-wheelbase version is also configurable as either a 5- or 6-seater but adds the option to include a second-row bench to make it a full 7-seater. The second row in the standard version can slide by up to 150 mm for improved versatility, while this arrangement in the long wheelbase gains 200 mm worth of fore and aft adjustment.
With combined overall power increased to 250 kW, while the long-wheelbase ID. Buzz GTX boasts a new maximum towing capacity of 1 600 kg, the standard-length derivative can tow up to 1 800 kg.
Available exclusively on the long-wheelbase model, a new panoramic sunroof that features integrated liquid crystal film and can be electronically switched so that it is transparent or opaque is the largest panoramic sunroof ever used in a Volkswagen.
Since 2021, the sportiest models of the all-electric ID. series have carried the GTX label – in reference to the dynamic VW models with the designations GTI, GTD or GTE. Including the new ID. Buzz GTX, a total of five ID. models will soon be available in the GTX range.
