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2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz vs. 2025 Kia EV9: Charting the Course for Your Family’s Electric Future
The landscape of family transportation is undergoing a seismic shift, propelled by the relentless march of electrification. As we navigate 2025, the choices for discerning buyers seeking a spacious, sustainable, and technologically advanced vehicle for their loved ones are more compelling than ever. At the forefront of this evolution stand two distinct, yet equally intriguing, three-row electric vehicles: the much-anticipated 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the groundbreaking 2025 Kia EV9. Having spent over a decade meticulously evaluating automotive innovations, I can confidently say that these aren’t just cars; they represent a philosophy of movement, each carving out its unique niche in the burgeoning electric family segment.
The ID. Buzz, a modern reincarnation of Volkswagen’s legendary Microbus, arrives with an undeniable retro-futuristic charm, promising a blend of nostalgic appeal and cutting-edge EV engineering. Meanwhile, the Kia EV9, a bold, assertive SUV, redefines what a mainstream electric utility vehicle can be, offering a premium experience with a forward-thinking design. Both target families, both offer three rows, and surprisingly, their as-tested pricing often converges within a few thousand dollars, placing them in direct competition for your consideration.
This isn’t merely a contest of specifications; it’s an exploration of philosophies. Do you prioritize unparalleled interior volume and a unique aesthetic, or a more conventional, albeit electric, SUV package with robust range? Let’s delve deep into what makes these two electric people-movers truly tick, dissecting their strengths and weaknesses from the perspective of an expert who understands the nuances of daily family life and the demands of modern electric vehicle ownership.
The Contenders at a Glance: Power, Range, and Pricing in the 2025 Landscape
Before we plunge into the detailed comparison, a quick overview of our test vehicles provides crucial context. The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, specifically the Pro S Plus AWD variant, presents a dual-motor powertrain delivering a healthy 335 horsepower. Its 91-kilowatt-hour battery pack offers an EPA-estimated driving range of 231 miles, with DC fast-charging capabilities up to 200 kilowatts. Its as-tested price hovers around $70,540, including destination fees. This is a robust package, positioning the ID. Buzz as a compelling “electric minivan alternative 2025” for families seeking something different.
The 2025 Kia EV9, our long-term test vehicle in the Land AWD trim, boasts a slightly more potent 379 horsepower from its dual-motor setup, powered by a larger 99.8-kWh battery. This translates to a superior EPA-estimated range of 280 miles, a significant advantage for those prioritizing “long-range electric vehicles.” Its DC fast-charging peaks at a swift 210 kW. While our purchased EV9 was $74,305, slight adjustments for 2025 models (like the discontinuation of certain matte paint options) mean current pricing for a similarly equipped model might be marginally lower. This positions the EV9 as a strong contender in the “best 3-row electric SUV 2025” category.
The takeaway here is clear: both offer ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. The primary differentiator in this initial assessment lies squarely in the EV9’s more extensive range, a critical factor for many “sustainable family transport” discussions.
Interior Space & Comfort: A Family’s Sanctuary on Wheels
When evaluating “family electric vehicle interior,” space and comfort are paramount. In my experience, vehicles designed for people-hauling either excel or fall short in this crucial aspect.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz genuinely impresses with its cavernous interior, a direct benefit of its van-like architecture and longer wheelbase. From the driver’s seat, the elevated position provides an commanding view, albeit one that leans more towards a commercial van than a traditional SUV. While the climb into the seat might prompt some to consider aftermarket running boards, once settled, the sheer volume around you is undeniable. The upright windshield and extended roofline, a nod to its iconic predecessor, do require a slight adjustment for seeing overhead stoplights, but this is a minor quibble against the backdrop of its strengths.
Where the ID. Buzz truly shines is in its rear accommodations. While its first and second-row seats are comfortable, the third row is where it truly outclasses many competitors. It offers adult-friendly space, akin to what you’d typically find in a second row of a well-designed SUV. Taller adults can genuinely sit back there without feeling like an afterthought, a rare feat in the “three-row EV comfort” segment. This makes the ID. Buzz an ideal choice for larger families or those frequently transporting adults in all rows.
Conversely, the 2025 Kia EV9 offers front seats that, in my professional opinion, are marginally more cushioned and ergonomically refined than the ID. Buzz’s. The seating position is more conventional SUV, which many drivers will find immediately familiar and comfortable. The EV9’s second row is excellent, particularly with the available ventilated captain’s chairs, integrated window sunshades, and an expansive dual moonroof setup that contributes to an airy, open cabin feel.
However, the EV9’s third row, while commendable for an SUV, is noticeably smaller than the ID. Buzz’s. It’s perfectly adequate for children or smaller adults on shorter journeys, and passengers in the second row can slide their seats forward to share legroom. For consistent adult usage in the way-back, it’s a tighter squeeze. The EV9 does offer the convenience of one-touch second-row folding and sliding for easier third-row access, a thoughtful touch in its “spacious electric SUV” design. Ultimately, if maximum occupant space across all three rows is your absolute priority, the ID. Buzz takes a significant lead.
Intelligent Storage Solutions: Every Nook and Cranny for Family Life
The reality of family travel often involves an astonishing array of “stuff,” from snacks and water bottles to tablets and charging cables. Effective “EV interior storage” is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
The 2025 Kia EV9 adopts a more conventional, yet highly effective, approach to in-cabin storage. Its front center console is a well-designed hub with ample space for smaller items, multiple cupholders, and a large, open lower storage area that’s perfect for larger bags or electronics. This “practical electric vehicle” design focuses on utility, ensuring that everything has its designated spot, minimizing clutter during commutes or long road trips. The slide-out bin and tray for second-row passengers further enhance its functionality.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, despite its expansive interior volume, falls a bit short in dedicated small-item storage. The central console between the front seats is notably smaller than the EV9’s, and its integrated storage compartments are less substantial. While there’s an undeniable sense of openness, allowing for a backpack or purse to sit on the floor, this isn’t always the most organized or secure solution. The movable center console is a neat trick, but sharing a single console between the front and second rows can be inconvenient. Quirky features like the bottle opener/ice scraper dividers are fun, but from an expert’s perspective, I prioritize practical, easily accessible storage for essential items. The nearly hidden wireless phone charger, while functional, might not accommodate larger phones with robust cases, which can be an annoyance for users accustomed to more forgiving designs. In essence, the EV9’s “family car organization” solutions are simply more useful and user-friendly for everyday family needs.
User Experience & Tech Integration: Navigating the Digital Dashboard Era
The “EV infotainment system” and overall “user-friendly electric car” experience are critical in 2025. Modern drivers expect seamless integration of technology, but not at the expense of intuitive controls.
The 2025 Kia EV9 gets my vote in this category, largely due to its balanced approach to physical and digital controls. Its 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive, with responsive menus and clear graphics. Crucially, Kia retains physical buttons for frequently used features like climate control temperature, audio volume, and heated/ventilated seats. This blend is essential for reducing driver distraction. While the small climate system touch panel on the dashboard can be partially obscured by the steering wheel (a minor ergonomic flaw), the option to expand these controls to the central touchscreen mitigates this. The “intuitive EV controls” on the steering wheel also avoid the pitfalls of overly sensitive touch surfaces. Kia’s “advanced automotive technology 2025” is well-integrated without being overwhelming.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, while featuring a vibrant 12.9-inch touchscreen with rich colors and reasonably intuitive tile menus, suffers from a common Volkswagen Group design misstep: an overreliance on touch-sensitive controls beyond the screen itself. The touch-sensitive steering-wheel controls, while attempting to be innovative, are a constant source of frustration. Accidental inputs, such as inadvertently setting cruise control while gripping the wheel, are a real-world concern. The haptic sliders for volume and temperature, while responsive, lack the tactile precision of physical knobs. This “EV user interface design” choice, which I’ve observed across several recent VW models, detracts from an otherwise promising system. Furthermore, unnecessary pauses when adjusting climate settings and occasional screen lockouts for safety reasons highlight areas where the software could be refined for a smoother “electric vehicle technology 2025” experience. For an expert, usability and safety always trump pure digital aesthetics.
Craftsmanship & Material Quality: Beyond the Price Tag
When discussing “premium EV interior” finishes, especially in vehicles cresting the $70,000 mark, expectations are high. Both vehicles make a case for quality, but with different philosophies.
The 2025 Kia EV9 presents a very good quality interior. Soft-touch surfaces are strategically placed where occupants naturally rest their arms, contributing to a sense of comfort and refinement. The upholstery feels robust and durable, an important consideration for a “durability in family EVs.” Even after 10,000 miles of rigorous testing, our long-term EV9’s interior shows minimal signs of wear or creaking, testament to its solid construction. The all-gray interior color scheme, however, while practical, can be perceived as somewhat monochromatic or “boring-looking” by some, lacking the vibrant personality often found in luxury alternatives.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz offers a well-built interior with visually engaging materials on certain surfaces, especially its more colorful and lighter-toned schemes that evoke its heritage. These contribute to a cheerful and inviting cabin. However, it relies more heavily on hard plastics in common touchpoint areas compared to the EV9. While the overall quality is good, it doesn’t quite match the consistent soft-touch density of the Kia, which might impact the perceived “luxury electric SUV” feel for some buyers. From an expert’s standpoint, while the ID. Buzz’s design is more charismatic, the EV9’s material choices feel slightly more aligned with its price point in terms of consistent tactile quality.
Cargo Versatility: Hauling Life’s Adventures
For any “family car,” “electric SUV cargo capacity” is a deal-breaker. Whether it’s groceries, sports gear, or luggage for a road trip, ample and versatile space is essential.
Behind the third row, both the 2025 Kia EV9 and the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz offer roughly 10 cubic feet of cargo space by our measurements – adequate for a modest grocery run. However, their approaches diverge significantly when more space is needed.
The EV9 features a conventional, easily accessible cargo area, similar to what you’d expect in a gas-powered three-row SUV. With the third row folded flat, the “electric SUV cargo capacity” expands to a very respectable 23.4 cubic feet, complemented by useful underfloor storage and a small “frunk” (front trunk), a practical bonus for charging cables or small bags.
The ID. Buzz, conversely, leverages its unique van-like architecture to deliver truly exceptional “family van cargo space.” With the third row folded, it offers a substantial 30.8 cubic feet. The real magic happens when the third row is removed entirely, unlocking a gargantuan 48.9 cubic feet of cargo space – more than double the EV9’s capacity with its third row folded. This modularity, enhanced by a clever cargo shelf that creates a flat load floor, makes the ID. Buzz a champion for hauling large items. The trade-off: each third-row section is heavy (around 60 pounds), requiring effort to remove, and you’ll need a place to store them when not in use. Additionally, the ID. Buzz foregoes a frunk. Despite these minor logistical challenges, for sheer volume and “versatile EV interior” configuration, especially for bulkier items, the ID. Buzz is the clear winner.
On the Road: Driving Dynamics & Refinement
The “EV driving experience” encompasses everything from acceleration and handling to ride comfort and cabin quietness. As a driver with extensive experience, I look for a harmonious blend of these elements.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz was a pleasant surprise on the road. Despite its heavier curb weight and slightly lower output (335 hp) compared to the EV9, its dual-motor AWD system provides surprisingly sprightly acceleration in city driving and ample power for highway merges. What truly stands out is its overall refinement. The suspension tuning, while firm, feels more “buttoned up” and sophisticated than the EV9’s. It dampens road imperfections effectively, and the cabin remains remarkably quiet, with minimal suspension noise. The steering is light and responsive, contributing to a “nimble electric car” feel that belies its size. The B mode on the gear selector offers near-one-pedal driving, a convenient feature though it requires a brake pedal press for a complete stop. Overall visibility is good, despite the unique windshield design. The ID. Buzz delivers a truly composed and enjoyable “smooth EV ride,” feeling every bit the pleasant cruiser it’s meant to be.
The 2025 Kia EV9, by contrast, feels more like a conventional “electric vehicle performance” SUV. It offers more power (379 hp) and, in its Sport mode, delivers a more assertive acceleration experience, making it the relatively sportier choice. Its different drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) also have a more pronounced effect on the “EV driving experience,” clearly altering throttle response and steering feel. However, when directly compared to the ID. Buzz, the EV9’s ride quality is notably harsher. Its suspension struggles more with broken pavement, transmitting more noise and impact into the cabin, giving it a somewhat “rattly” feel. Tire and wind noise are also more noticeable at highway speeds. While it offers more regenerative-braking levels, including a true one-pedal driving mode (i-Pedal), which is a significant plus, its overall refinement lags behind the ID. Buzz. Forward visibility is good, and rear visibility is excellent, further enhanced by a camera mirror and Kia’s confident blind-spot camera views, which are a valuable “advanced driver-assistance systems EV” feature.
Enduring the Elements: Cold-Weather Efficiency & Range
One of the most pressing concerns for prospective “electric car efficiency” buyers is how an EV performs in adverse conditions, particularly regarding “cold weather EV range.” Our cold-weather efficiency drive, a consistent 110-mile route of interstate and country roads in well-below-freezing temperatures (17-21 degrees Fahrenheit), offered critical insights.
Both vehicles saw a reduction in estimated range compared to their EPA figures before starting the test, a common characteristic of “winter driving electric vehicles.” The 2025 Kia EV9, with its larger 99.8-kWh battery, started with 249 miles of estimated range, while the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz (91-kWh battery) showed 198 miles.
Over the 110-mile route, the EV9 consumed 135 miles of estimated range, traveling 113 actual miles, resulting in an average of 2.1 miles per kWh and 114 miles of remaining range. The ID. Buzz, traveling 111 actual miles, consumed a more significant 150 miles of estimated range, achieving 1.8 miles per kWh and leaving just 48 miles of range.
The data is clear: the EV9 was slightly more efficient in cold weather, but its greater driving range was an even more substantial asset. For any extended “cold weather EV road trip,” frequent charging stops would be necessary for both. However, the Kia’s superior battery capacity and efficiency provide a larger buffer, reducing “range anxiety” and making it marginally more tolerable for longer journeys in frigid temperatures. This underscores the importance of a robust battery and optimized thermal management in “long-range EV technology.”
The Verdict: Tailoring Your Electric Future
After extensive evaluation, it’s clear that both the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the 2025 Kia EV9 are compelling choices in the evolving family EV segment, each catering to a slightly different buyer profile.
If your priority is unrivaled passenger space, particularly in the third row, coupled with an undeniably unique and charming retro-futuristic van aesthetic, the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is your ideal match. It offers a refined driving experience, a comfortable ride, and truly expansive cargo flexibility for those who can utilize its removable third row. It’s perfect for large families or individuals who need maximum “sustainable family transport” capacity with a dose of personality.
However, if you’re seeking a more conventional, assertive SUV form factor with superior long-range electric vehicle capability, a more intuitive user interface with physical controls, and a slightly higher perceived level of interior material quality, the 2025 Kia EV9 stands out. It’s a robust “premium electric SUV” that serves exceptionally well as a primary family vehicle, offering a strong blend of practicality, technology, and range, even if its ride is a tad firmer.
Neither of these groundbreaking EVs will let you down on their core promises, but understanding their distinct personalities and priorities is key.
Ready to Experience the Future of Family Travel?
The choice between these two remarkable electric vehicles is a deeply personal one, reflecting your family’s unique needs and lifestyle. We invite you to explore further, delve into additional expert reviews, and, most importantly, schedule a test drive to truly feel the difference for yourself. Discover which of these innovative three-row EVs will become your family’s next cherished companion on the road ahead. Your electric journey begins now.
