Long-wheelbase Volkswagen ID. Buzz revealed

The 2024 Volkswagen ID. Buzz LWB made its global debut last weekend, ahead of its potential introduction to Australia next year.

Measuring 4962mm in length, the new Volkswagen ID. Buzz LWB features a wheelbase that has been stretched by as much as 250mm.

This makes room for a third row of seating, with the battery-powered VW bus now able to accommodate up to seven occupants.

Concealing the extra length, the twin sliding doors are 192mm longer.

The car’s width and height remain unchanged but engineers have managed to squeeze in a huge 1.5-metre-square panoramic sunroof that incorporates smart glass.

Despite its increased length, the drag coefficient is 0.29Cd, which is described by VW as “very good” for the blocky van.

For the North American market only, the oversized Volkswagen logo is illuminated but this feature will not be offered on vans sold in Europe.

Space is plentiful, says the German brand, with up to 2469 litres of storage available with the second and third row of seats folded.

With the five-seater configuration there’s as much as 1340 litres behind the second row (seats up).

This drops to just 306 litres with all seven seats up and in place.

Boosting practicality, the standard second-row bench can slide up to 200mm, while the third optional row can be removed completely.

The most luxurious versions come with 12-way adjustable seats with ventilation and massage functions.

New features introduced on the VW ID. Buzz LWB include a head-up display and an overhauled infotainment system that features Volkswagen’s all-new interface and revamped menu.

It’s operated via a large 12.9-inch display that combines with a small 5.3-inch digital instrument panel.

As part of the infotainment upgrades, the volume and temperature touch sliders are finally illuminated.

There’s also a 10-colour ambient lighting system that can be upgraded to a 30-colour system.

Dealing with the inevitable extra weight, the longer VW ID. Buzz gets a larger 91kWh (85kWh useable) battery that’s claimed to provide even more range, although WLTP figures are yet to be released.

Slotting in its latest-generation APP550 rear-axle drive unit, which will also be offered in the regular ID. Buzz, the rear-wheel drive long-wheelbase model comes with a single motor that produces 210kW and 560Nm.

It can accelerate from 0-100km/h in a claimed 7.9 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 160km/h.

For those who want more pace from their family hauler, there’s a powerful dual-motor version called the Volkswagen ID. Buzz GTX that pumps out 250kW and can launch from 0-100km/h in just 6.4 seconds.

Along with the new battery, Volkswagen has rolled out faster DC charging of up to 200kW that now allows a 10 to 80 per cent top-up in just 25 minutes.

More new tech introduced includes a battery preconditioning function, as well as a new heat pump that boosts efficiency in cold climates.

Full pricing and specification will be announced closer to its 2024 launch.

Volkswagen Australia has previously indicated the seven-seater would be part of the local ID. Buzz portfolio due on sale here next year, but launch timing for the LWB EV is still to be confirmed.

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