2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz vs. 2024 Kia EV9: Electrifying Family Haulers Redefined
As we navigate the rapidly evolving automotive landscape of 2025, the demand for ve
rsatile, family-friendly electric vehicles (EVs) has never been higher. For years, the traditional minivan and three-row SUV segments dominated family transportation, but electrification is rewriting the rules. Two prominent contenders are making significant waves: the much-anticipated 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the already lauded 2024 Kia EV9. While they present vastly different aesthetic philosophies – one a nostalgic nod, the other a futuristic statement – both aim to capture the hearts and driveways of modern families seeking sustainable mobility.
Having spent over a decade immersed in automotive technology and countless hours behind the wheel of the latest electric innovations, I can attest that these aren’t just vehicles; they’re statements. The ID. Buzz reawakens the spirit of the iconic VW Bus, reimagined for the electric age, while the EV9 aggressively stakes its claim as a groundbreaking premium electric SUV. For families contemplating a significant investment in a next-gen electric vehicle, understanding the nuances between these two is paramount. Despite their visual disparity, their as-tested pricing often falls within a surprisingly close bracket, compelling a direct head-to-head comparison to determine which offers the superior electric family car experience.
Architectural Foundations and Performance Specifications
Let’s first establish the technical bedrock of our contenders. The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz arrives as an entirely new proposition for the North American market, built on VW’s dedicated MEB (Modular Electric Drive Matrix) platform. Our test vehicle, a Pro S Plus AWD trim, boasted a dual-motor powertrain delivering a robust 335 horsepower, energized by a 91-kilowatt-hour battery pack. With an EPA-estimated driving range of 231 miles on a full charge, the ID. Buzz is positioned as a supremely comfortable, capacious cruiser. Its DC fast-charging capability of up to 200 kilowatts is competitive, ensuring relatively swift top-ups on the go. This electric van isn’t just a retro design; it’s a meticulously engineered efficient electric van ready for modern demands.
Conversely, the 2024 Kia EV9, an impressive long-term member of our fleet, has been proving its mettle for nearly a year. This Land AWD variant, underpinned by Kia’s advanced E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform), draws power from a larger 99.8 kWh battery. Its dual-motor setup churns out a formidable 379 horsepower, giving it a slight edge in raw output over the VW. Crucially, the EV9 achieves a more substantial EPA-estimated range of 280 miles, a key differentiator for long-range electric vehicles. Furthermore, its DC fast-charging capacity climbs slightly higher to 210 kW, promising even quicker pit stops. The EV9 is a testament to Kia’s bold vision for a luxury electric SUV, blending cutting-edge technology with practical family utility.
With these foundational details in mind, let’s dissect the real-world implications of these specifications across various critical aspects of family vehicle ownership in 2025.
Interior Ambiance and Passenger Comfort: Space, Reimagined
When it comes to hauling people, particularly across three rows, space is king. And here, the 2025 ID. Buzz truly shines, claiming the crown for maximum occupant space.
From the driver’s perspective, the ID. Buzz offers an elevated seating position reminiscent of a classic van, a delightful throwback for some, though potentially requiring a small climb for others. The upright windshield and expansive forward roofline create an airy cabin, but I found myself occasionally tilting my head to catch overhead traffic lights – a minor quirk of its unique design. The seats themselves, while not as plush as the EV9’s front and second rows, provide ample support for long journeys.
However, the ID. Buzz’s trump card is its sheer volumetric generosity. Its third row is remarkably spacious, offering legroom and headroom that rivals the second row of many conventional SUVs, including the EV9. Taller adults will find it genuinely accommodating, a rare feat for a third row.
The EV9’s front seats, in contrast, offer superior cushioning and a more conventional, ergonomic fit, contributing to a premium feel for the driver and front passenger. Its second row, often configured with comfortable ventilated captain’s chairs, boasts integrated window sunshades and an open feel thanks to a dual moonroof, providing an excellent experience. Yet, despite these amenities, the ID. Buzz’s longer wheelbase translates to an undeniable advantage in sheer second-row spaciousness. For families prioritizing an expansive, uncompromised cabin experience, the ID. Buzz delivers.
The EV9’s third row, while commendable for an SUV, remains best suited for children or adults on shorter trips, requiring some negotiation of legroom with second-row occupants. Access to the third row in the EV9 is made easier by one-touch folding and sliding second-row seats. The ID. Buzz, while not having the same one-touch magic, offers a wide, accessible opening, making entry and exit surprisingly easy for its cavernous rear. For families who frequently utilize all three rows with diverse passenger sizes, the ID. Buzz presents a compelling argument for its superior comfort and capacity, making it a true family EV comfort champion.
Intelligent Storage Solutions: Practicality Meets Innovation
While both vehicles offer ample cabin real estate, their approach to in-cabin storage differs significantly, with the Kia EV9 often proving more practical for daily family chaos.
The EV9’s front center console is a masterclass in utility. It provides dedicated spaces for drinks and smaller items, complemented by an open lower storage area capable of swallowing larger bags or purses. This thoughtful design ensures that essential items are always within easy reach and organized.
The ID. Buzz, despite its open and airy interior, offers somewhat limited dedicated small-item storage. The center console between the front seats is compact, and its compartments are not as generously sized as those in the EV9. While the VW’s movable console unit has a clever rear-opening bin, it pales in comparison to the Kia’s expansive utility. Creative touches like dividers that double as a bottle opener and ice scraper are undeniably “fun,” but ultimately less practical than the sheer volume offered by the EV9. My own experience with the ID. Buzz’s nearly hidden wireless phone charger, which struggled to accommodate my cased iPhone 12, highlighted these minor practical shortcomings.
The EV9’s more conventional but highly effective storage layout, including a larger console bin, an open area below the console, and well-integrated slide-out trays for second-row passengers, makes it the clear winner for families who need to store everything from snacks and toys to tablets and charging cables. It’s a testament to smart EV interiors that prioritize usability.
User Experience and Infotainment: The Interface Battle
In the realm of EV user experience, the interaction with a vehicle’s digital brain is increasingly critical. Here, the Kia EV9, with its more balanced approach to controls, gains a significant advantage.
The EV9’s infotainment system is intuitive, featuring a responsive touchscreen paired with a crucial array of physical controls. Buttons for frequently used functions like climate temperature and heated/ventilated seats are a welcome relief, allowing for quick, tactile adjustments without diverting attention from the road. While the small climate touch panel on the dashboard can be partially obscured by the steering wheel (a minor annoyance I’ve adapted to), the option to expand these controls to the central touchscreen mitigates this. Kia’s choice to retain physical controls for essential functions dramatically enhances the driving experience, embodying high-tech family cars that prioritize safety and convenience.
The ID. Buzz, while featuring an infotainment system with crisp graphics, intuitive tile menus, and richer colors, falls victim to Volkswagen’s persistent reliance on touch-sensitive controls for functions beyond the screen. The touch-sensitive steering-wheel controls, which I found myself accidentally triggering, and the similar sliders for volume and temperature, while responsive, lack the precision and tactile feedback of traditional buttons. This translates to frustration, especially during active driving. While VW has made strides in other models, the ID. Buzz’s implementation can still be a source of constant minor irritation, even for a seasoned EV expert. The system’s occasional pauses and “safety locks” further detract from what could otherwise be a stellar digital experience.
Ultimately, the EV9’s blend of a well-designed touchscreen and a thoughtful selection of physical buttons offers a more seamless and less distracting interface for daily family use, a critical factor for advanced EV features.
Craftsmanship and Material Quality: Luxury in Detail
At a price point north of $70,000, both of these premium electric vehicles are expected to deliver a certain level of interior quality. While neither fully achieves the perceived luxury of some higher-tier offerings, the Kia EV9 edges out the ID. Buzz in overall material execution.
The EV9 boasts a very good materials quality, with strategically placed soft-touch surfaces where occupants rest their arms. The upholstery feels durable and refined, holding up exceptionally well even after over 10,000 miles of rigorous testing. Despite its somewhat monochromatic gray interior scheme, the overall impression is one of solid construction and thoughtful design, reflecting its status as a luxury electric SUV.
The ID. Buzz also presents a well-built cabin with visually engaging and high-quality materials on certain surfaces. Its lighter, more colorful interior palette offers a refreshing contrast to the EV9’s sobriety. However, it relies more heavily on hard plastics for common touchpoints, which, while durable, can detract slightly from the premium feel expected at this price. While undeniably charming, the ID. Buzz’s interior craftsmanship, though solid, doesn’t quite match the tactile refinement of the EV9 in every aspect.
Versatile Cargo Capacity: Hauling Gear and Groceries
For families, the ability to haul more than just people is crucial. In terms of sheer electric vehicle cargo capacity, the ID. Buzz, particularly when its unique design is fully utilized, becomes an unparalleled champion.
Behind the third row, both EVs offer similar measured cargo space, around 10 cubic feet. However, this is where the similarities end. The ID. Buzz features a clever cargo shelf that creates a flat load floor when the third row is folded, enhancing utility. Below this shelf, soft-sided bins offer additional storage, though their long-term cleanliness might be a concern. When the third row is folded, the ID. Buzz provides a substantial 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The true game-changer, however, is the ability to entirely remove the ID. Buzz’s third-row seats. This transforms the cabin into a cavernous 48.9 cubic feet of cargo volume – more than double the EV9’s 23.4 cubic feet with its third row stowed. This modularity makes the ID. Buzz an incredibly versatile electric minivan alternative for large hauls, albeit with the caveat of finding a place to store those heavy third-row sections.
The EV9 offers a more conventional cargo area, similar to a traditional three-row SUV. It boasts a respectable space with the third row up and a significantly larger one when folded flat. It also features convenient underfloor storage and a small frunk (front trunk), a practical addition absent in the ID. Buzz. While the EV9’s cargo area is highly functional and easy to reconfigure, it simply cannot match the ultimate volume potential of the ID. Buzz once its seats are fully removed. For families needing maximum flexibility for gear, sports equipment, or even occasional light moving, the ID. Buzz’s unique design provides an undeniable advantage.
Driving Dynamics and Refinement: On the Road Performance
The driving dynamics electric vehicles offer are a crucial part of the modern automotive experience. Here, both vehicles offer distinct personalities, but the ID. Buzz delivers a surprisingly refined and agile experience.
Even in its Comfort drive mode, the ID. Buzz feels remarkably responsive off the line. Its power delivery is smooth, quiet, and predictable, making for a serene driving experience. What truly impresses is the suspension tuning; it feels more buttoned-up and composed than the EV9, absorbing bumps with less noise and greater refinement. Despite its elevated driving position and van-like stature, the ID. Buzz doesn’t feel top-heavy. Its light steering and nimble demeanor make it genuinely enjoyable to pilot, disproving any preconceptions about electric vans being cumbersome. The “B” mode on the gear selector offers near-one-pedal driving, a convenient feature that only requires the brake pedal for a complete stop. Outward visibility is generally good, with minimal blind spots, though the unique windshield shape creates a distinct forward perspective. This translates to an EV performance comparison where the ID. Buzz showcases unexpected agility for its size.
The Kia EV9, while providing a solid EV driving experience, feels less refined in direct comparison. Its suspension, while capable, can be noisier over broken pavement and transmits more of the road imperfections into the cabin. Tire and wind noise are more noticeable than in the ID. Buzz, detracting slightly from the premium feel. However, the EV9 offers multiple regenerative braking levels, including a full one-pedal driving mode, which is a strong point for urban efficiency. Its different drive modes (Eco, Sport) have a more pronounced effect on the driving dynamics, offering a clearer distinction between conservative and spirited driving. Forward visibility in the EV9 is good, and its larger rear window, coupled with a camera mirror option and Kia’s excellent blind-spot camera views, instills confidence. For an electric SUV, it handles competently, but the ID. Buzz delivers a more polished and unexpectedly engaging ride.
Real-World Efficiency and Range Resilience: Conquering the Cold
For any electric vehicle buying guide 2025, range and efficiency, especially in adverse conditions, are critical considerations. On our rigorous cold-weather efficiency drive, the Kia EV9 demonstrated a notable advantage.
We subjected both EVs to the same 110-mile route, comprising highways and country roads, in well-below-freezing temperatures (17-21 degrees Fahrenheit). Climate systems were set to Auto for a realistic test of cold weather EV performance.
Before embarking, the EV9 displayed 249 miles of estimated range, while the ID. Buzz showed 198 miles – both reductions from their EPA estimates, as expected in cold. Over the course of the drive, the Kia traveled 113 miles but consumed 135 miles of estimated range, leaving 114 miles remaining. It averaged 2.1 miles per kWh. The ID. Buzz, covering 111 miles, consumed a more significant 150 miles of range, ending with just 48 miles remaining, averaging 1.8 miles per kWh.
This test clearly highlights the EV9’s superior long-range electric vehicles capability, which is amplified in colder climates. While neither vehicle would be my first choice for extensive cold weather EV road trips due to the need for frequent charging stops, the EV9’s larger battery and better efficiency in the chill make it the more tolerable option. This speaks to its stronger credentials for families who might face varied climates or longer distances between charging points, addressing common EV range anxiety solutions.
The Verdict: Which Electrifying Family Hauler is Right for You in 2025?
As an expert in the future of automotive mobility, I can confidently state that both the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the 2024 Kia EV9 represent compelling visions for sustainable family transportation. Deciding which is “better” ultimately hinges on your specific family needs and lifestyle priorities in 2025.
If your primary objective is maximum people hauling, uncompromised third-row adult comfort, and an interior that feels incredibly open and adaptable for cargo, the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is your undeniable champion. Its charming retro-futuristic appeal, surprising driving refinement, and ultimate cargo flexibility make it a unique and joyful choice for families who need space above all else, perhaps as a secondary lifestyle vehicle or for those who appreciate its distinct personality. It’s an efficient electric van that sparks joy, but its lower range and touch-heavy interface require some concessions.
However, if you seek a more traditional yet cutting-edge three-row electric SUV with superior range, quicker charging capabilities, a more intuitive user interface, and a slight edge in interior material quality, the 2024 Kia EV9 stands out. Its bolder, futuristic styling, stronger cold-weather efficiency, and more conventional but highly practical storage solutions make it an exceptionally well-rounded primary family EV. The EV9 delivers a highly capable and luxurious experience, ideal for those who value practicality, range resilience, and a balanced blend of physical and digital controls in their premium electric vehicle.
Ultimately, both vehicles exemplify the exciting advancements in electric vehicle technology 2025. Neither will leave you disappointed in terms of their core electric performance, but their distinct personalities cater to different family needs.
Embark on Your Electric Journey
The era of sustainable automotive choices is here, and choosing your next family EV is an exciting decision. We encourage you to experience these exceptional vehicles firsthand. Visit your local Volkswagen or Kia dealership today, schedule a test drive, and explore the advanced features and unparalleled comfort each offers. Discover for yourself which of these top electric family cars truly resonates with your vision for the future of your family’s adventures. Your journey toward electrifying mobility begins now.
