Our spy photographers in Europe have snapped an undisguised long-wheelbase version of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz undergoing winter testing in northern Finland.
The 2024 Volkswagen ID. Buzz LWB is said to be around 250mm longer than the standard model between the axles, enabling a larger rear door that facilitates access to a third row.
The longer wheelbase will also provide improved options for factory campervan layouts.
Speaking to Autocar last month, Volkswagen R&D boss Kai Gruenitz confirmed the ID. Buzz LWB would offer seating for up to seven occupants and improved interior versatility.
He also confirmed a California camper version of the spiritual Kombi successor is also in the works, with the first concept “being worked on now”.
“It [the LWB] will have three rows and seven seats, and you can pull them all out of the back,” he said.
“It will also have captain chairs that turn around.”
Given the lack of camouflage and its clear readiness for production, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz LWB looks set for a global debut in the coming months ahead of a European launch before year’s end.
Volkswagen Group Australia has previously indicated a seven-seat option would be available as part of the local ID. Buzz line-up, which is due to launch here early in 2024.
The three-row model will use the same 150kW single-motor battery-electric powertrain as the five-seater model, however the option of a bigger 111kWh battery (up from 77kWh) will also be available.
Gruenitz also said buyers should expect more grunt from the yet-to-be-revealed ID. Buzz GTX than the related Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs which churn out 220kW and 460Nm.
“The GTX will be a cool high-performance version, with 250kW, a dedicated interior, new exterior colours and some additional features,” he said.