2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz vs. 2024 Kia EV9: The Ultimate Family EV Showdown
The automotive landscape is electrifying at an unprecedented pace, and for families seeki
ng to join the sustainable mobility revolution without compromising on space or utility, the choices are becoming increasingly compelling. As an expert who’s spent a decade navigating the intricate world of electric vehicles, I can tell you that 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year, particularly with the arrival of two distinct yet equally ambitious three-row electric contenders: the much-anticipated 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the already impactful 2024 Kia EV9. While they present vastly different aesthetics – one a retro-futuristic homage to an icon, the other a bold statement in modern SUV design – their core mission is identical: to move people, and lots of them, efficiently and electrically.
From the outside, you might assume these vehicles are worlds apart, but a closer look reveals they’re fierce competitors in the burgeoning electric family vehicle segment, particularly when considering their as-tested pricing, which often falls within a few thousand dollars of each other. The question isn’t just which one looks better; it’s which one truly serves the demanding needs of a modern American family in 2025. Let’s dive deep into the real-world performance, comfort, and practicality that defines the ownership experience for these two exceptional vehicles.
A Tale of Two Philosophies: Initial Impressions and Specifications
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz arrives as a breath of fresh air, channeling the spirit of the legendary VW Microbus but reimagined for the electric age. Our test model, an AWD Pro S Plus trim, represented the top tier, boasting an EPA-estimated 231 miles of range from its 91-kilowatt-hour battery. Its dual-motor setup churns out a respectable 335 horsepower, and VW claims a DC fast-charging capability of up to 200 kilowatts. At an as-tested price of around $70,540, it’s a premium offering that promises a unique blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology. This is not just an EV; it’s a statement.
In the other corner, we have the 2024 Kia EV9 Land AWD, a vehicle that has already made waves in the market and served as our long-term test car for nearly a year. Equipped with a larger 99.8-kWh battery, it delivers a more substantial EPA-estimated 280 miles of range. Its powertrain is slightly more robust, offering 379 horsepower, and it edges out the ID. Buzz in DC fast-charging at up to 210 kW. Our EV9’s tested price came in at $74,305. While newer EV9 models might see minor price adjustments or paint options, the core value proposition remains steadfast. The EV9 positions itself as a luxury electric SUV, blending practicality with a forward-thinking design.
Despite their stylistic divergence, both are people-movers at heart, engineered to transport families and their gear. So, we subjected them to rigorous real-world evaluations, examining everything from their cavernous interiors to their cold-weather capabilities.
Interior Space and Comfort: Where Every Inch Counts
When it comes to family vehicles, interior space and comfort are paramount, dictating everything from daily commutes to epic road trips.
ID. Buzz: The Space Conqueror
If your primary concern is maximizing occupant space across all three rows, particularly for adult passengers, the ID. Buzz takes a clear lead. The driving position, reminiscent of a classic delivery van, offers an elevated perspective. While some drivers might appreciate the commanding view, the initial climb into the seat can be a bit steep for some, potentially making running boards a desirable accessory. The upright windshield and extended roofline, a nod to its iconic predecessor, do present a minor quirk: seeing overhead stoplights often requires a slight head tilt. It’s a small detail, but one that an experienced driver notices immediately.
The ID. Buzz’s seats, while not quite as plush as the EV9’s initial rows, are commendably comfortable overall. However, its true trump card is the sheer generosity of passenger volume. The third row, in particular, is a revelation. It rivals the spaciousness of many second rows in competitors, offering genuine legroom and headroom for taller adults. Unlike many three-row SUVs where the third row is an afterthought best reserved for small children or short trips, the ID. Buzz’s rearmost seats are genuinely accommodating, making it an ideal choice for larger families or those who frequently carpool with adults. This isn’t just “more room”; it’s usable room, which is a critical distinction for a family EV.
EV9: Sophisticated Comfort with SUV Constraints
The EV9, while undeniably spacious for an SUV, operates within different architectural constraints. In the front row, I’d give the edge to the Kia. Its seats are often better cushioned and offer superior contouring, creating a slightly more cocooning and ergonomic experience for longer drives.
Moving to the second row, the EV9’s ventilated captain’s chairs, integrated window sunshades, and an expansive dual moonroof contribute to a premium, airy feel. However, the ID. Buzz’s longer wheelbase translates directly into a more expansive and comfortable second-row experience. The difference isn’t subtle; the ID. Buzz simply offers more stretch-out room, which is invaluable on extended journeys with children or multiple adults.
The third row highlights the fundamental difference between these two vehicles. While the EV9’s two-person third row is more accessible than many SUVs, with convenient one-touch folding and sliding second-row seats, it’s still best suited for children or smaller adults willing to negotiate legroom with second-row passengers. An expert driver knows that convenience features like those in the EV9 are great, but they can’t magically create space that isn’t there. The ID. Buzz, conversely, offers a larger opening for third-row access and, crucially, a far more livable space once you’re back there. If your family regularly utilizes all three rows for adults, the choice becomes clear.
In-Cabin Storage: Practicality for the Daily Grind
Beyond seating, effective in-cabin storage is a hallmark of a well-designed family vehicle. This isn’t about mere cubbies; it’s about smart, accessible solutions for everything from smartphones and snacks to water bottles and school bags.
EV9: The Organized Utility Belt
The Kia EV9 shines in its practical approach to storage. The front center console provides ample space for personal items and drinks, complemented by a large, open lower storage area beneath the console – perfect for a purse, small backpack, or larger items that you want out of sight but within easy reach. This intentional design facilitates organization, a key factor for any family vehicle.
ID. Buzz: Open Concept, Minor Compromises
The ID. Buzz’s interior, while undeniably open and airy, prioritizes passenger volume over dedicated, enclosed storage for smaller items. The center console between the front seats is notably smaller than the EV9’s, and its integrated storage compartments are less capacious. While it features a clever small bin that opens from the backside, it simply cannot match the volume or utility of the EV9’s console.
Some of the ID. Buzz’s design choices, while fun, lean more towards novelty than outright practicality. Take, for instance, the dividers in the center console bin that double as a bottle opener and ice scraper – charming, but not as functional as simply having more secure, varied storage options. And while the cleverly hidden wireless phone charger next to the steering wheel is a neat trick, its size limitation (my iPhone 12 in an Otterbox case didn’t fit) can be a real frustration in daily use. I often found myself placing items on the floor simply because there wasn’t a dedicated, secure spot. While the movable center console is a versatile touch, an expert would suggest that having an additional, fixed console for second-row passengers would significantly enhance its utility, rather than requiring sharing the sole front-row unit.
User Interface: Navigating the Digital Age
The user interface (UI) is increasingly the heart of modern vehicles, but the balance between intuitive digital displays and essential physical controls remains a hotly debated topic.
EV9: The User-Friendly Hybrid
The Kia EV9 largely gets it right here. Its touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive, with responsive menus and clear graphics. Crucially, Kia has retained a sensible array of physical controls for frequently used features, such as climate system temperature and heated/ventilated seats. These tactile buttons are invaluable when driving, allowing adjustments without diverting attention from the road. The one minor ergonomic flaw is a small climate system touch panel on the dashboard that can be partially obscured by the steering wheel, though these controls can be expanded to the main touchscreen for easier access. The steering wheel can also block some digital dashboard views, particularly the blind-spot camera feeds when signaling, which is an annoyance Kia should address.
ID. Buzz: The Touch-Sensitive Test
The ID. Buzz’s touchscreen infotainment system boasts excellent graphics and vibrant colors, potentially surpassing the Kia in visual appeal. Its tile-based menus and home screen are reasonably intuitive. However, like other modern VWs, its reliance on touch-sensitive controls for functions beyond the screen is a source of consistent frustration. The touch-sensitive steering-wheel controls are particularly irksome; I’ve accidentally engaged cruise control simply by swiping my hand near them. Similarly, the touch sliders for volume and temperature, while responsive, lack the precision and tactile feedback of physical knobs, making precise adjustments challenging, especially on bumpy roads.
The VW’s UI can also suffer from unnecessary pauses when adjusting the climate system, and the screen occasionally locks itself for “safety reasons” at inopportune moments. Some essential features are buried deep within multiple menus, an expert’s pet peeve, as it increases cognitive load while driving. While VW has made strides in their UI, the ID. Buzz still feels like a compromise between aesthetic minimalism and practical usability.
Interior Quality: Does $70,000 Feel Like $70,000?
This is where the rubber meets the road on value perception. Both vehicles hover around the $70,000 mark, leading one to expect a premium interior experience.
EV9: Subtle Sophistication with Durability
The Kia EV9 takes a slight lead in interior quality. It judiciously employs soft-touch surfaces where occupants naturally rest their arms, contributing to a sense of thoughtful design. The upholstery materials feel higher quality and, even after 10,000 miles on our long-term tester, the interior shows remarkably little wear or creakiness. While the all-gray color scheme can be a bit somber, lacking the vibrant personality of the ID. Buzz, its understated quality and durability are undeniable. An expert understands that a car that holds up well to family life adds significant value.
ID. Buzz: Visually Engaging, Material Mix
The ID. Buzz presents a visually more interesting and colorful interior, which aligns with its playful exterior. It feels solidly built, and certain surfaces showcase appealing, high-quality materials. However, it relies more heavily on hard plastics in common touchpoints than the EV9, which slightly detracts from the perceived luxury at this price point. While the design is engaging, the tactile experience doesn’t always scream “premium EV” in the same way the EV9 does. Neither vehicle, to be frank, entirely feels like a $70,000-plus interior when compared to traditional luxury brands, but the EV9 manages to edge out the ID. Buzz in material consistency and long-term durability.
Cargo Space: Hauling What Matters
Families inevitably need to haul more than just people. Groceries, sports equipment, luggage for family trips, strollers – cargo capacity and versatility are critical.
ID. Buzz: The Cavernous Canvas
While measured cargo space behind the third row is similar for both EVs at around 10 cubic feet, the ID. Buzz truly shines when its third row is folded, or better yet, removed entirely. When the third row is down, it offers a robust 30.8 cubic feet. However, the game-changer is the ability to remove the third-row seats, unlocking a massive 48.9 cubic feet of cargo space according to our measurements – more than double the EV9’s 23.4 cubic feet with its third row stowed. This modularity transforms the ID. Buzz into a legitimate cargo hauler, rivaling some small vans.
There are caveats, of course. Each third-row section is heavy, weighing approximately 60 pounds, making removal a two-person job for many. You also need to remove VW’s cargo area shelf to achieve maximum space. While the shelf helps create a flat load floor when seats are folded, it also significantly raises the load floor. The under-shelf soft-sided storage bins are a clever idea but prone to getting dirty like reusable shopping bags. This is a design that requires the owner to be hands-on to fully utilize its potential. The ID. Buzz lacks a front trunk (frunk), which is a minor inconvenience for smaller, secure items.
EV9: Conventional, Yet Capable
The EV9 offers a much more conventional cargo area, akin to a gas-powered three-row SUV. With the third row up, it’s still quite usable, and it expands significantly when folded. It includes practical underfloor cargo storage and a small but useful frunk, perfect for charging cables or a small carry-on. While it doesn’t offer the sheer volumetric potential of the ID. Buzz with its seats removed, the EV9’s system is far simpler and more integrated for everyday use. Its cargo area, with its lower load floor and straightforward seat-folding mechanism, is a testament to traditional SUV utility. For families who prefer less fuss and no heavy lifting for occasional cargo needs, the EV9 is arguably more practical.
Driving Experience: Power, Poise, and Practicality
The driving experience of an EV goes beyond mere acceleration; it encompasses ride quality, handling dynamics, and overall refinement.
ID. Buzz: Agile Cruiser with a Smooth Ride
The ID. Buzz delivers a surprisingly refined and engaging driving experience. Even with a heavier curb weight and slightly less horsepower (335 hp) than the EV9 (379 hp), it feels remarkably responsive from a standstill, thanks to a well-tuned accelerator pedal. Power delivery is consistently smooth, quiet, and predictable, making city driving a joy.
While both vehicles have firm suspension tuning, the ID. Buzz’s setup is more sophisticated and feels better buttoned-up. It absorbs road imperfections with greater composure, and the suspension itself generates less noise than the Kia’s, particularly over broken pavement. The steering is light and direct, contributing to a nimble feel that belies its van-like stature. You sit high, but the ID. Buzz doesn’t feel top-heavy, responding readily to steering inputs. The B mode on the gear selector provides near-one-pedal driving, though it does require a final brake pedal press for a complete stop, which can lead to some jerky stops if you’re not anticipating it. An expert would tell you that a true one-pedal driving mode would elevate this experience further.
Outward visibility is good overall, with its short nose and expansive glass at the front creating a unique, commanding perspective without significant blind spots. Rear visibility, however, can be compromised if the third-row head restraints are up or passengers are present, and the lack of a rearview camera mirror is a noticeable omission in a vehicle of this caliber.
EV9: Powerful SUV with a Firm Stance
The Kia EV9 provides a driving experience that aligns closely with what you’d expect from a large SUV, albeit with electric propulsion. Its driving position and outward visibility (aside from a chunky left-side B-pillar) are conventional. However, in this direct comparison, the EV9 reveals itself to be the noisier and harsher-riding option. Tire and wind noise are more pronounced at highway speeds, and its suspension struggles to isolate the cabin from harsh bumps, leading to a somewhat rattlier feel.
While the ID. Buzz might have an edge in immediate off-the-line responsiveness, the EV9’s higher horsepower allows it to eventually overpower the VW, making it the relatively sportier choice for spirited driving. Its distinct drive modes – Eco, Normal, Sport – also offer a more noticeable effect on the driving dynamics, truly altering the vehicle’s character. The EV9 offers more regenerative braking levels, including a full one-pedal driving mode, which is a significant convenience.
Forward visibility in the EV9 is strong, arguably better than the VW, and rear visibility is superior thanks to a larger rear window and the availability of a camera mirror to compensate for obstructed views. Kia’s integrated blind-spot camera views, activated with the turn signal, further enhance confidence.
Cold-Weather Efficiency: The EV Acid Test
For any electric family car in regions with diverse climates, cold-weather performance is a critical factor. It impacts range, charging times, and ultimately, trip planning.
EV9: The Cold-Weather Competitor
On our roughly 110-mile cold-weather test route, consisting mostly of interstate highways and country roads, the EV9 demonstrated a slight edge in efficiency, averaging 2.1 miles per kWh compared to the ID. Buzz’s 1.8 miles per kWh. Temperatures were well below freezing, ranging from 17 to 21 degrees Fahrenheit – challenging conditions for any EV battery.
Starting with 249 miles of estimated range (down from its EPA 280-mile estimate due to the cold), the EV9 traveled 113 miles but consumed 135 miles of estimated range, leaving 114 miles remaining. The Kia’s larger battery and slightly better cold-weather efficiency, combined with its higher initial EPA range, position it as the more tolerable option for long-range EV trips in frigid conditions. Its advanced battery thermal management system likely contributes to this resilience.
ID. Buzz: Range Realities in the Cold
The ID. Buzz began our cold-weather drive with 198 miles of estimated range (down from its EPA 231-mile estimate). After traveling 111 miles, it had consumed a more substantial 150 miles of range, leaving only 48 miles remaining. This stark difference highlights the importance of battery size and overall efficiency in adverse conditions. While neither vehicle would be an ideal choice for a truly extended cold-weather road trip without frequent charging stops, the ID. Buzz’s lower base range, exacerbated by cold weather, makes it a less viable option for those routinely undertaking longer journeys in winter. This is a crucial consideration for potential EV ownership experience in colder climates.
ID. Buzz or EV9: Which Is the Right Family EV for You?
Choosing between these two compelling three-row electric vehicles ultimately hinges on your specific family needs, priorities, and lifestyle. Both represent excellent strides in sustainable family transport, but they cater to slightly different niches.
If you’re a family that prioritizes maximum passenger comfort for up to seven adults across all three rows, values a unique, retro-modern aesthetic, and primarily uses your vehicle for city driving or predictable local routes where charging is readily available, the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an unparalleled choice. Its incredible interior volume, surprising agility, and smooth ride make it a joy to pilot and a comfortable sanctuary for occupants. It’s more than a car; it’s a statement, a lifestyle accessory for those who appreciate design and a relaxed driving demeanor, and can afford a premium electric van. However, be mindful of its more limited range, especially in colder temperatures, and its somewhat frustrating touch-sensitive user interface.
Conversely, if you need a versatile primary family vehicle that blends the practicality of an SUV with the efficiency of an EV, demands a more conventional yet sophisticated driving experience, and values longer range for less frequent charging, the 2024 Kia EV9 stands out. Its superior cold-weather efficiency, more robust battery capacity, and more intuitive blend of physical and digital controls make it a more well-rounded and arguably more pragmatic choice for a wider array of driving scenarios, including occasional longer trips. While its third row is less capacious for adults and its ride can be firmer, its overall utility, build quality, and comprehensive feature set make it a top contender in the luxury electric SUV market.
No matter which path you choose, both the ID. Buzz and EV9 represent the exciting future of family transportation, demonstrating that going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing space or utility. Your ideal electric family car is out there, waiting to transform your journeys.
Ready to electrify your family’s adventures? Explore the cutting-edge features of the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and 2024 Kia EV9 today. Visit our showroom or schedule an expert consultation to find the perfect three-row EV that fits your unique lifestyle.
