Navigating the Electric Family Frontier: 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz vs. Kia EV9 – The Ultimate Head-to-Head
The automotive landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, wi
th electric vehicles (EVs) no longer a niche curiosity but a mainstream reality, especially for families. As we surge into 2025, the choices for electric three-row vehicles are more compelling than ever, presenting a fascinating dilemma for discerning buyers. At the forefront of this family-focused EV revolution are two distinct, yet equally intriguing, contenders: the eagerly anticipated 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the already established, award-winning 2024 Kia EV9. While one resurrects a cultural icon with futuristic charm and the other redefines the electric SUV segment with audacious design, both are meticulously engineered to move people – and lots of them – efficiently and sustainably.
Having navigated the intricacies of the automotive industry for over a decade, specializing in electric powertrain integration and consumer experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the rapid evolution of these vehicles. This isn’t just a simple comparison; it’s a deep dive into two distinct philosophies of electric family transport, weighing their strengths and acknowledging their compromises in the context of the evolving 2025 market. With pricing converging in the low $70,000 range for well-equipped, all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants – the ID. Buzz Pro S Plus at an estimated $70,540 and the EV9 Land AWD at roughly $74,305 (prices inclusive of destination charges, noting minor trim adjustments for 2025 for the EV9) – the decision often boils down to subtle nuances, practical applications, and personal priorities.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, a veritable time capsule reimagined for the electric age, is more than just a vehicle; it’s a statement. Our test model, an AWD Pro S Plus, boasted an EPA-estimated range of 231 miles from its 91-kilowatt-hour battery, delivering a robust 335 horsepower. Its DC fast-charging capability peaks at an impressive 200 kilowatts, ensuring relatively swift top-ups on the go. On the other side, our long-term 2024 Kia EV9 Land, with its 99.8-kWh battery, stretches its EPA-estimated range to a more substantial 280 miles. It offers a slightly more potent 379 horsepower and a quicker DC fast-charge rate of up to 210 kW.
Despite their stylistic divergence – the retro-futuristic ID. Buzz van and the angular, futuristic EV9 SUV – both vehicles are fundamentally designed for a similar purpose: efficient, comfortable family mobility. This comprehensive assessment will dissect every critical aspect, from the cavernous interiors to real-world driving dynamics and cold-weather performance, to help you determine which of these trailblazing electric family vehicles is the superior choice for your 2025 lifestyle.
Interior Space and Comfort: The Ultimate People Mover Mandate
When evaluating a family vehicle, interior space and comfort often sit at the apex of priorities. Here, the architectural differences between a dedicated electric van and a large electric SUV become strikingly apparent, leading to distinct advantages for each.
The 2025 ID. Buzz, by virtue of its van lineage and inherent design philosophy, absolutely excels in volumetric passenger space. Ascending into the driver’s seat of the ID. Buzz, you immediately notice a commanding, elevated driving position – reminiscent of a modern delivery van, yet infused with comfort. This high perch, while offering an expansive view of the road ahead, sometimes requires a minor head tilt to properly register overhead traffic signals, a small concession for the panoramic glass and short nose design. However, once settled, the seats, while perhaps not as plush as the EV9’s front and second rows, provide excellent support for long journeys, making the ID. Buzz a genuine pleasure to inhabit.
Where the ID. Buzz truly pulls ahead is in its unparalleled second and third-row accommodations. The second row is nothing short of expansive, rivaling the best in its class. But it’s the third row that defines its superiority for adult occupants. Unlike many three-row SUVs where the rearmost seats are best reserved for children or short trips, the ID. Buzz’s third row generously accommodates taller adults with genuine comfort, offering legroom and headroom that feels closer to a second-row experience in other vehicles. This exceptional passenger volume is a direct benefit of its purpose-built electric platform and boxy, space-maximizing exterior.
In contrast, the 2024 Kia EV9 offers a more conventional, albeit highly refined, SUV cabin experience. Its front seats are arguably a touch more ergonomically sculpted and better cushioned, providing a premium feel for the driver and front passenger. The second row, especially with the optional ventilated captain’s chairs, integrated window sunshades, and the open ambiance created by the dual moonroof, is a luxurious space. Yet, even with these amenities, the EV9’s second row, while excellent, simply cannot match the sheer expansive feeling of the ID. Buzz due to the inherent differences in their footprints and rooflines.
The EV9’s third row, while commendable for an SUV, is ultimately a compromise. It’s suitable for children or smaller adults for moderate durations, and access is facilitated by convenient one-touch second-row folding. However, taller passengers will find it considerably tighter than the ID. Buzz, often necessitating the kindness of second-row occupants to slide their seats forward. For families frequently transporting adults or growing teenagers in the third row, the ID. Buzz’s commitment to maximal occupant volume is an undeniable advantage.
Verdict: The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz claims victory for superior overall passenger space, especially in the crucial third row, making it the definitive choice for families prioritizing maximum comfort for all occupants on extended journeys.
In-Cabin Storage: Practicality for the Modern Family
Beyond seating, the practicality of a family EV hinges on its ability to stow away the myriad items that accompany daily life – from water bottles and snacks to phones, tablets, and school bags. Here, the design philosophies diverge once more, with distinct outcomes for user convenience.
The 2024 Kia EV9 adopts a more traditional, yet highly functional, approach to in-cabin storage. Its front center console is a well-thought-out space, featuring dedicated spots for small items, multiple cup holders, and a deep bin. Crucially, it boasts an expansive open lower storage area beneath the console, perfect for larger purses, backpacks, or even a small cooler, leveraging the advantages of its flat EV platform. The second row also benefits from a clever slide-out bin and tray system, offering additional utility for passengers. This arrangement reflects a focus on robust, adaptable storage solutions for varied family needs.
The 2025 ID. Buzz, while outwardly capacious, presents a different strategy for internal organization. Its interior feels incredibly open and airy, a hallmark of its van design. However, this openness sometimes translates to a less defined structure for smaller item storage. The central console between the front seats is notably smaller than the EV9’s, and the integrated storage areas within it are not as generously sized. While it offers a unique rear-opening bin, it’s simply not as voluminous or versatile as the EV9’s offerings. The ID. Buzz leans into quirky, fun touches, such as console dividers that double as a bottle opener and ice scraper – charming, but not always the most practical for everyday clutter. Even the clever, nearly hidden wireless phone charger next to the steering wheel, while innovative, struggled to accommodate larger modern smartphones in their protective cases, a minor but recurring frustration for users.
While the ID. Buzz’s overall interior volume means you can easily toss a backpack or bag onto the floor, its dedicated, secured storage for smaller, frequently used items falls short compared to the Kia. The singular movable center console, while adaptable, often feels insufficient for a vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers, who might each desire their own personal storage.
Verdict: The 2024 Kia EV9’s intelligently designed, larger, and more numerous storage bins and compartments offer superior practicality and utility for the everyday demands of a busy family.
User Interface: Navigating the Digital Frontier
The modern vehicle’s dashboard is a command center, and the user interface (UI) is its operating system. In 2025, the blend of physical controls and digital screens defines the user experience, often dictating ease of use, safety, and overall satisfaction. Here, the Kia EV9’s thoughtful balance edges out the ID. Buzz’s more screen-centric approach.
The 2024 Kia EV9 generally provides a more intuitive and less frustrating user experience. Its widescreen touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and logically laid out, featuring clear menus and engaging graphics. Crucially, Kia has retained a vital array of physical buttons and dials for frequently accessed functions, such as climate control temperature, fan speed, and heated/ventilated seat controls. This hybrid approach allows drivers to make quick, tactile adjustments without diverting their eyes significantly from the road – a critical safety consideration. While there’s a small, touch-sensitive climate panel on the dash that can be partially obscured by the steering wheel (though its functions can be expanded to the main screen), and the start-stop button integrated into the drive mode selector takes some getting used to, these are minor quibbles against an otherwise commendable setup. The inclusion of physical controls for essential features, including audio and camera views, makes the EV9’s cockpit feel both modern and refreshingly user-friendly.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, while boasting a visually vibrant and responsive touchscreen with rich colors and intuitive tile menus, falls victim to Volkswagen’s broader design philosophy of embracing touch-sensitive controls over physical buttons. This approach, while aesthetically minimalist, often leads to a less precise and more distracting user experience in practice. The touch-sensitive steering wheel controls, for instance, are prone to accidental activation, such as inadvertently engaging cruise control with a casual swipe of the hand. Similarly, the touch sliders for volume and temperature, while responsive, lack the tactile feedback and precision of a physical knob, making fine adjustments more challenging while driving.
Beyond the main screen, the ID. Buzz’s reliance on these haptic feedback controls, which are sometimes difficult to see in varying lighting conditions, can be a constant source of frustration. Furthermore, while the infotainment screen itself boasts excellent graphics, there are sometimes noticeable pauses when performing certain actions, like adjusting climate settings, and occasional safety lockouts. Some features feel unnecessarily buried within multiple sub-menus, requiring too many steps to access a simple function. In a fast-paced driving environment, the EV9’s more conventional, yet ergonomic, control strategy ultimately proves more effective and less taxing on the driver.
Verdict: The 2024 Kia EV9’s balanced integration of intuitive touchscreen menus with essential physical controls provides a superior, less distracting, and ultimately safer user interface experience compared to the ID. Buzz’s reliance on touch-sensitive controls.
Interior Quality: Craftsmanship and Materials
For vehicles commanding a premium price tag in the $70,000 range, interior quality is not just about aesthetics; it’s about durability, tactile pleasure, and the overall sense of refinement. Both the ID. Buzz and EV9 offer commendable interiors, but each has its particular strengths and areas for improvement.
The 2024 Kia EV9 presents an interior that feels robust and well-appointed, a testament to Kia’s commitment to elevating its brand perception in the premium EV segment. Soft-touch materials are strategically placed on common touchpoints – armrests, dashboard sections, and door panels – enhancing the sense of quality and comfort. The upholstery feels durable and, even after significant mileage, our long-term test vehicle demonstrated impressive resilience against wear and tear, remaining largely free of creaks or rattles. While the overall aesthetic of our test vehicle’s all-gray interior felt somewhat monochromatic or “boring” to some, its underlying quality and fit-and-finish are undeniably strong. It feels like a space built to endure the rigors of family life, marrying practicality with a solid, high-quality build.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, on the other hand, embraces a more playful and visually engaging design ethos. Its interior color schemes are often lighter and more vibrant, injecting a welcome sense of personality and cheerfulness that harks back to its iconic ancestors. Certain surfaces feature visually interesting and high-quality materials, contributing to its unique charm. The ID. Buzz is solidly built, with panels fitting together precisely, and the overall construction inspires confidence. However, compared to the EV9, the ID. Buzz does incorporate a greater proportion of hard plastics, particularly on lower door panels and some console elements. While these plastics are well-textured and appear durable, they lack the soft-touch tactile premium feel that Kia offers in more areas, especially on frequently touched surfaces. The VW’s interior is undoubtedly good, but in a direct comparison of premium materials and consistent soft-touch surfaces across the cabin, the EV9 holds a slight edge.
Verdict: The 2024 Kia EV9 wins narrowly in interior quality, offering a more consistent application of soft-touch materials and a robust, premium feel that belies its mileage, though the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz charms with its unique design and solid construction.
Cargo Space: Hauling What Matters Most
A family vehicle, electric or otherwise, must excel at carrying not just people, but also their gear. Whether it’s groceries, sports equipment, luggage for a weekend getaway, or even home improvement supplies, cargo versatility is paramount. In this crucial aspect, the ID. Buzz showcases its inherent van-like advantages, particularly when maximizing capacity.
Initial measurements behind the third row show both EVs providing around 10 cubic feet of cargo space, which is sufficient for a few backpacks or grocery bags. However, the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz truly distinguishes itself when its third row is folded down, and especially when it’s completely removed. With the third row folded, the ID. Buzz liberates a substantial 30.8 cubic feet of cargo volume. Its unique cargo shelf system, which aligns with the folded third-row backrest to create a flat load floor, is ingenious, though the soft-sided storage bins beneath it may raise questions about long-term durability and ease of cleaning.
The real game-changer for the ID. Buzz is the option to fully remove its third-row seats, transforming the rear into a truly cavernous 48.9 cubic feet of cargo space – more than double the EV9’s capacity with its third row stowed. This modularity offers unparalleled flexibility for hauling large items, making it an ideal companion for active families or those who frequently transport bulky gear. The caveat, of course, is that each third-row section is heavy (around 60 pounds), and requires a dedicated storage spot when not in the vehicle.
The 2024 Kia EV9, while excellent for an SUV, adheres to a more conventional cargo area design. With its third row folded, it offers a respectable 23.4 cubic feet of space, along with convenient underfloor storage and a small “frunk” (front trunk) – a feature notably absent in the ID. Buzz. The EV9’s cargo area is easy to reconfigure, similar to what you’d find in a traditional three-row SUV, making it straightforward to manage. However, it simply cannot match the sheer volume or the ultimate modularity that the ID. Buzz provides when its third row is completely removed. For families needing to occasionally move furniture, large sporting equipment, or transport extensive camping gear, the ID. Buzz’s design offers a significant functional edge.
Verdict: The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is the clear winner in cargo space and versatility, especially when its third row is removed, offering unmatched volumetric capacity for hauling large items.
Driving Experience: Performance Meets Practicality
Beyond the static aspects of interior and cargo, how these electric giants perform on the road is crucial. From acceleration and handling to ride comfort and driver visibility, the driving experience defines daily interaction. Surprisingly, the ID. Buzz, despite its van-like profile, delivers a remarkably refined and agile performance.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz provides a genuinely pleasant and engaging driving experience. Even with its listed heavier curb weight and slightly lower power output (335 hp AWD vs. EV9’s 379 hp), the ID. Buzz feels remarkably responsive from a standstill. The accelerator pedal offers precise control, and power delivery is consistently smooth and quiet, characteristic of a well-engineered EV. Its suspension tuning, while firm, is exceptionally well-composed and refined, absorbing road imperfections with a subdued confidence that belies its size. There’s a distinct “buttoned-up” feel, with minimal suspension noise intruding into the cabin. Steering is light and direct, contributing to a surprisingly nimble feel, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The B mode on the gear selector provides near-one-pedal driving, effectively slowing the vehicle with regenerative braking down to an almost complete stop, enhancing efficiency and driving ease. Despite sitting high, the ID. Buzz doesn’t feel top-heavy, exhibiting stable and confident road manners. Forward visibility is excellent thanks to the expansive windshield, though the unique glass shape and short nose take a moment to adjust to. Rear visibility is generally good, but the absence of a rearview camera mirror is a missed opportunity, especially when the third-row headrests are up or passengers are onboard.
The 2024 Kia EV9, while a strong performer, surprisingly takes a backseat in overall ride refinement in this specific comparison. Compared to its previous benchmarks, the EV9 feels noisier and somewhat harsher in this head-to-head. Tire and wind noise are noticeably more pronounced at highway speeds, and its suspension, while capable, transmits more of the road’s harshness into the cabin, leading to a somewhat “rattly” sensation on broken pavement. While the EV9’s drive modes have a more distinct impact on the driving dynamics (Eco feels genuinely relaxed, Sport genuinely sporty), the ID. Buzz maintains a consistently pleasant character across its settings. The EV9’s greater power (379 hp) does give it an edge in ultimate acceleration and passing maneuvers at higher speeds, making it the relatively sportier choice.
From a driver’s perspective, the EV9 offers a conventional SUV driving position and good forward visibility. Its blind-spot camera views, activated with the turn signal, are a valuable safety feature, and the availability of a camera mirror (unlike the ID. Buzz) compensates for obstructed rear views. However, the left-side B-pillar can be quite thick, occasionally obstructing the driver’s view.
Verdict: The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz offers a more refined, quieter, and surprisingly agile driving experience, making it the more pleasant daily cruiser, despite the Kia EV9’s slightly higher power output.
Cold-Weather Efficiency: The Winter Range Challenge
For any EV owner, cold weather presents a unique challenge, impacting battery performance and range. This is particularly critical for family vehicles that might need to cover significant distances. Our real-world cold-weather efficiency test, conducted in sub-freezing temperatures, revealed important distinctions between the two.
Our rigorous 110-mile test route, comprising a mix of interstate highways and country roads, was conducted in outside temperatures hovering between 17 and 21 degrees Fahrenheit. Both vehicles were driven as they would be in everyday use, with climate control set to a comfortable cabin temperature in Auto mode. Before setting off, the 2024 Kia EV9 displayed an estimated 249 miles of range, while the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz showed 198 miles – both reflecting the inherent cold-weather reduction from their EPA estimates.
Over the course of the drive, the combined effect of high speeds and frigid temperatures rapidly consumed available range. The Kia EV9 traveled 113 miles, consuming 135 miles of its estimated range, leaving 114 miles remaining. This translated to an average efficiency of approximately 2.1 miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The Volkswagen ID. Buzz covered 111 miles, but consumed 150 miles of its estimated range, leaving a more modest 48 miles remaining. Its average efficiency came in at about 1.8 miles per kWh.
The results underscore two key points for 2025 EV buyers:
Cold-weather range anxiety is real: Both vehicles experienced significant range degradation, highlighting the need for careful planning on long winter journeys. Neither would be an ideal choice for a consistent, very long cold-weather road trip without frequent charging stops.
Greater initial range is a significant asset: The EV9’s superior EPA-estimated range translates directly into a more substantial buffer in cold conditions. While both were impacted, the EV9’s larger battery pack meant it had more “usable” range remaining after the test, providing greater peace of mind and flexibility for winter driving. This extended range makes the EV9 marginally more tolerable for longer trips in adverse conditions, reducing the frequency of charging stops compared to the ID. Buzz.
This difference in cold-weather efficiency isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about practical implications for families. Less range means more charging stops, longer travel times, and potentially more anxiety, especially with children in tow.
Verdict: The 2024 Kia EV9 demonstrates superior cold-weather efficiency and, crucially, its greater overall driving range provides a more robust and less restrictive experience when temperatures dip below freezing, making it the more reliable choice for winter driving.
ID. Buzz or EV9: The Right EV for Your Family in 2025?
As the electric vehicle market matures in 2025, offering increasingly sophisticated and specialized options, the choice between the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the 2024 Kia EV9 boils down to your family’s unique priorities and lifestyle. Both are phenomenal electric machines that represent the vanguard of family EVs, but their strengths are tailored to different needs.
If your primary need is uncompromising passenger space, especially for adults or growing teenagers in all three rows, and you value a unique, retro-futuristic aesthetic with a remarkably refined driving experience, the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is your champion. Its van-like architecture, expansive interior, and surprising agility make it an unparalleled people mover. For those who embrace individuality and appreciate a vehicle that sparks joy and turns heads while offering exceptional comfort for every occupant, the ID. Buzz is an irresistible proposition. It’s also the clear winner if you occasionally need to haul truly massive amounts of cargo, thanks to its removable third row. However, be prepared for a slightly more challenging user interface and a greater impact on range during colder months.
Conversely, if you seek a more traditional, capable SUV experience that blends futuristic design with greater range, superior in-cabin storage, and a more intuitive user interface, the 2024 Kia EV9 stands out. It’s a more well-rounded primary family vehicle, offering a better balance for those who prioritize long-distance travel, especially in varying climates, and who appreciate a practical, durable, and conventionally luxurious interior. Its higher range and better cold-weather efficiency give it a distinct advantage for families who frequently embark on journeys beyond the city limits. The EV9 makes fewer compromises as a daily driver and an occasional road-trip companion, providing a sense of confidence and capability.
Neither of these electric pioneers is truly positioned as an ultimate cross-country road trip machine without careful planning, particularly in extreme cold. However, in favorable temperatures, the EV9’s extended range makes it the more viable option for longer excursions.
Ultimately, both the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the 2024 Kia EV9 represent significant leaps forward in sustainable family transport. They each offer compelling value propositions within their segment for 2025. Your decision hinges on which set of carefully considered trade-offs aligns best with your family’s specific demands for comfort, utility, and range.
Ready to experience the future of family electric vehicles? Explore the innovative features and unparalleled comfort of the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz or discover the versatile capability and premium design of the 2024 Kia EV9. Visit your local dealership today to schedule a test drive and find the perfect electric family vehicle that fits your unique journey.
