Having owned and enjoyed my fair share of Volkswagen Group cars over the years, every encounter with a new VW feels like catching up with a familiar friend—naturally, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz piqued my interest—I wanted to see just how far VW had pushed the envelope with this full-electric MPV.

Priced at $294,900 in Singapore, the ID.Buzz positions itself uniquely against more costly premium MPVs like the Toyota Alphard, offering an appealing blend of electric innovation and traffic-stopping design.

Right off the bat, rolling around Singapore on those slick 20-inch wheels, the ID.Buzz commands plenty of street presence. Its retro-futuristic two-tone design cleverly channels the spirit of the beloved Kombi, effortlessly blending nostalgia with a modern twist. It’s a crowd-pleaser, drawing smiles, waves, and genuine curiosity wherever it goes—proof that this is a rolling source of good vibes.

Behind the wheel, the ID.Buzz surprised me with just how manageable it feels despite its substantial size. This long-wheelbase, seven-seater MPV handles Singapore’s tight streets with impressive confidence. Steering is satisfyingly precise and nicely weighted, contributing to a relaxed yet engaging drive.

However, the braking system does require some early planning—the brakes bite quite late, needing a firm, confident input to slow down smoothly. Punch the playfully named “Play” pedal, and you’re rewarded with instant, linear torque from the 282bhp electric motor. The sizeable 86 kWh battery offers ample range, ensuring practicality for daily commutes and longer weekend adventures without constant charging anxiety.

With a stout 560Nm on tap, sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds feels quicker than it sounds. It delivers that addictive electric surge you never quite tire of.

On the move, the ID.Buzz offers the kind of smooth, serene ride that defines electric driving. The suspension irons out most imperfections effortlessly, and the commanding driving position provides a reassuring view of the road ahead.

Compared to its competitors, the ID.Buzz feels fresh and forward-looking, particularly when considering its refinement and seamless electric performance to a segment traditionally dominated by petrol or hybrid powertrains. It’s also notably more affordable and enjoyable to drive than options like the Denza D9. However, its considerable height of 2.0 metres poses some challenges when navigating Singapore’s multi-storey HDB car parks.

Thanks to its compact front end, parking this sizeable machine in Singapore’s typically snug spaces is surprisingly stress-free. That said, the large front doors do require a bit more awareness in crowded car parks—something to bear in mind in tighter spots.

Step inside, and a genuinely inviting cabin greets you. The interior space feels vast, comfortably seating seven adults without feeling cramped. Throw in that expansive panoramic sunroof, and the interior feels airy and bright—perfect for cruising around town or on family road trips.

Practical touches abound, from clever storage compartments to foldable tray tables and flexible seating arrangements. And yes, those sliding doors offer a multitude of opening options, from traditional handles to dashboard buttons or the key fob, showcasing VW’s thoughtful attention to detail.

Volkswagen’s playful side shines through with neat Easter eggs hidden throughout the cabin, such as the charming ID.Buzz icon subtly embossed into the middle-row seats, a whimsical nod to VW’s tradition of injecting personality into its cars.

All said and done, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz strikes an appealing balance, blending practicality, charm, and electric performance into a standout package. It’s a modern-day MPV with a dash of nostalgia that will keep you looking forward to every drive.