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2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz vs. 2024 Kia EV9: The Definitive Family EV Showdown
As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicles in 2025, families seeking a spacious, capable, and sustainable mode of transport are presented with compelling, albeit distinct, choices. Two prominent contenders vying for the top spot in the electric family hauler segment are the much-anticipated 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the critically acclaimed 2024 Kia EV9. While one resurrects an icon with a futuristic twist and the other establishes a new benchmark for electric SUVs, both arrive with premium aspirations and a shared mission: moving people efficiently and comfortably.
Having spent a decade immersed in the world of electric mobility, from early adopters to the latest market entrants, I can confidently say that these two vehicles represent significant strides in family EV design and engineering. Their as-tested pricing, remarkably close at around the $70,000 mark (including destination fees), immediately positions them as direct competitors for discerning buyers. But beyond the price tag, a deeper dive reveals how their unique philosophies cater to different family dynamics and priorities. This comprehensive comparison, rooted in real-world testing and expert analysis, aims to arm you with the insights needed to determine which of these groundbreaking electric vehicles truly earns its place in your garage.
Unpacking the Contenders: A 2025 Perspective
Before we delve into the head-to-head categories, let’s set the stage by examining each vehicle’s unique proposition in the 2025 market. Understanding their core identities is crucial to appreciating their individual strengths and weaknesses.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz: Nostalgia Meets Next-Gen Mobility
The arrival of the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz has been nothing short of a cultural event. It’s more than just an electric van; it’s a bold reimagining of VW’s legendary Type 2 Microbus, infused with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. Our test model, an all-wheel-drive (AWD) Pro S Plus trim, showcased the pinnacle of the initial Buzz lineup. Underneath its retro-futuristic shell lies a dual-motor powertrain generating a robust 335 horsepower, fed by a 91-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack. This configuration delivered an EPA-estimated driving range of 231 miles on a full charge, a figure that, while respectable, positions it differently from some long-range competitors.
What truly defines the ID. Buzz is its intentional departure from the conventional SUV form factor. It embraces its van heritage, promising unparalleled interior volume and a unique aesthetic that turns heads. The fast-charging capability of up to 200 kilowatts (kW) ensures relatively quick top-ups when you find a compatible DC fast-charging station, mitigating range anxiety on longer journeys. For families seeking a statement vehicle that combines iconic design with sustainable transportation, the ID. Buzz is poised to create a distinct niche, appealing to urban explorers, creative professionals, and those with a deep appreciation for automotive history. Its presence in 2025 marks a refreshing alternative in a market saturated with electric SUVs.
The 2024 Kia EV9: The Mainstream Electric SUV Refined
In stark contrast, the 2024 Kia EV9, which we’ve had the privilege of living with as a long-term test vehicle for nearly a year, represents Kia’s ambitious entry into the premium three-row electric SUV segment. It’s an assertive, angular, and undeniably modern design that has quickly established itself as a benchmark. Our Land trim, equipped with AWD, boasts a more potent 379 horsepower powertrain and a larger 99.8-kWh battery, translating to a more generous EPA-estimated range of 280 miles. This extended range is a critical selling point for many families in 2025, offering greater peace of mind for daily commutes and road trips alike.
The EV9 also nudges ahead in DC fast-charging speed, capable of accepting up to 210 kW, further reducing time spent at charging stations. While our specific test vehicle carried a slightly higher as-tested price of $74,305 due to a now-discontinued matte blue paint option, the EV9’s overall value proposition remains strong. It’s engineered to compete directly with traditional luxury SUVs, offering a sophisticated blend of comfort, technology, and performance. For families who value established SUV practicality, robust range, and a refined driving experience in an electric package, the EV9 presents itself as a compelling, proven choice in the 2025 market.
Interior Space and Comfort: Where Every Inch Counts
For any family vehicle, interior space and comfort are paramount. This is where the fundamental differences between a van and an SUV truly emerge.
From the moment you attempt to settle into the ID. Buzz’s driver’s seat, you notice a distinct “command” position. It’s a higher perch, reminiscent of a delivery van, which some drivers might find requires a slight climb, making running boards a consideration for easier entry. The upright windshield and extended roofline, while contributing to its unique aesthetic, can sometimes obscure overhead stoplights, requiring a slight head tilt to catch the change. Despite this, the ID. Buzz’s seats, while not quite as plush as the EV9’s initial two rows, offer good support for most occupants.
However, the ID. Buzz truly shines in its overall passenger volume. The third row, in particular, is extraordinarily spacious. As someone who has logged countless miles in three-row vehicles, I can confidently state that the ID. Buzz’s rearmost seats are as roomy as many vehicles’ second rows, easily accommodating taller adults without complaint. This makes it an ideal choice for multi-generational families or carpooling with teenagers.
The EV9, meanwhile, presents a more conventional, albeit highly comfortable, experience. The front seats in our test model were noticeably better cushioned and provided superior lateral support, leading to excellent comfort on longer drives. The second row, often configured with captain’s chairs, is also a highly agreeable space, featuring amenities like integrated window sunshades and an open-feeling cabin enhanced by a dual moonroof setup. Yet, when it comes to the third row, the EV9’s two-person setup is undeniably tighter than the ID. Buzz’s. While adults can make it work for shorter stints by negotiating legroom with second-row passengers, it ultimately feels best suited for children or smaller occupants. The EV9’s one-touch second-row folding and sliding mechanism does offer commendable ease of access to the rear, but the sheer size of the ID. Buzz’s opening and the inherent roominess of its third row simply cannot be beaten for maximum occupant flexibility. In 2025, for pure passenger capacity and third-row adult comfort, the ID. Buzz is the undisputed champion.
In-Cabin Storage: Practicality vs. Panache
The everyday utility of a family vehicle hinges significantly on its ability to stash away the myriad items accumulated during journeys – from snacks and toys to phones and personal effects. Here, the EV9 takes a decisive lead in pragmatic design.
The Kia EV9’s front center console is a masterclass in functional storage. It thoughtfully integrates generous bins for drinks and smaller items, complemented by an expansive, open lower storage area beneath the console itself. This design ensures that larger bags or tablets have a dedicated, easily accessible spot, crucial for busy families. Having driven countless family cars, I can attest that this kind of intuitive organization is invaluable.
The ID. Buzz, while outwardly roomy, adopts a more design-forward approach to storage that sometimes compromises on raw utility. The center console between the front seats is notably smaller, and its integrated storage compartments lack the depth and versatility of the EV9’s. While a small bin opens from the backside, it’s a fraction of the size found in the Kia. Fun touches, like dividers that double as a bottle opener and ice scraper, are novel but ultimately less practical for daily family life than sheer volume. Furthermore, the movable center console, while adding flexibility, often means sacrificing fixed storage spots. A major personal frustration, after years of relying on wireless charging, was the nearly hidden wireless phone charger next to the steering wheel – a neat idea, but one that regrettably didn’t accommodate my iPhone 12 with its protective Otterbox case. For a family vehicle in 2025, where devices are ubiquitous, this is a significant oversight. While there’s plenty of floor space for a backpack or purse, it often ends up just sitting there, untethered. The EV9’s more conventional but highly effective storage solutions prove superior for the realities of family travel.
User Interface and Technology: The Digital Divide
The user interface (UI) is the nerve center of any modern vehicle, and in 2025, its intuitive design is a non-negotiable for seamless integration into daily life. This is a category where the Kia EV9 truly distinguishes itself, prioritizing driver focus and ease of use.
The EV9’s infotainment system is a testament to thoughtful design. Its touchscreen is intuitive, featuring clear graphics and logical menus. Crucially, Kia has maintained a sensible array of physical controls for frequently accessed features. Buttons for climate system temperature, as well as heated and ventilated seats, are right where you’d expect them, allowing for quick adjustments without diverting attention from the road. While the small climate system touch panel on the dashboard can be partially obscured by the steering wheel, these controls can be expanded onto the central touchscreen for better visibility. The only other minor quibble is the steering wheel’s occasional obstruction of the digital dashboard, particularly when camera views (triggered by turn signals) appear. Overall, the blend of physical and digital controls in the EV9 minimizes cognitive load, a significant advantage for families often navigating distractions.
The ID. Buzz, unfortunately, leans heavily into a touch-sensitive paradigm that, in my experience across various VW models, consistently leads to frustration. While its touchscreen infotainment system boasts excellent graphics, vibrant colors, and reasonably intuitive tile menus, the reliance on touch-sensitive controls beyond the screen is its Achilles’ heel. The steering wheel controls, which are both touch-sensitive and multi-functional, proved to be a constant source of accidental inputs during our testing; I inadvertently set the cruise control simply by brushing my hand against them. Similarly, the touch-sensitive sliders for volume and temperature, while responsive, lack the tactile precision of a physical knob, making fine adjustments needlessly difficult. Essential functions are sometimes buried several layers deep within menus, creating unnecessary pauses and distractions. The screen itself occasionally locks for “safety reasons,” further disrupting the flow. For a vehicle intended for family use, where quick, intuitive operation is vital, this interface design represents a notable drawback. In the competitive 2025 EV market, a well-executed UI is paramount, and the EV9’s more balanced approach clearly takes the lead.
Interior Quality: Beyond the Price Tag
When investing upwards of $70,000 in a family vehicle, a certain expectation of premium interior quality is inherent. In 2025, buyers anticipate a blend of durable materials, refined finishes, and a cabin that feels substantial and well-appointed. Here, both vehicles present compelling, yet distinct, cases, though it’s important to set realistic expectations for this price segment. Frankly, neither interior feels like a full-blown luxury experience that might accompany a six-figure price tag, but they deliver strong quality for their class.
The Kia EV9 impresses with its overall material quality. Kia has strategically placed soft-touch surfaces where occupants naturally interact with the cabin – on door panels, armrests, and the dashboard. This thoughtful application contributes to a sense of comfort and refinement. Our long-term test vehicle, despite accumulating over 10,000 miles, has demonstrated excellent durability; the interior shows minimal wear and remains free of noticeable creaks or rattles, a testament to its solid construction. The primary critique often leveled against the EV9’s interior is aesthetic: the all-gray color scheme, while practical, can feel a bit subdued or even somber compared to the more vibrant and expressive choices available.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, on the other hand, approaches interior quality with a more playful and visually engaging philosophy. Its build quality is undeniably solid, and it features interesting textures and quality materials on select surfaces, creating an inviting and distinctive ambiance. The availability of lighter, more colorful interior schemes adds to its unique character and retro charm. However, the ID. Buzz does incorporate more hard plastics in certain areas, particularly on common touchpoints, which might detract slightly from a purely premium feel when directly compared to the EV9’s more extensive use of soft-touch trim. Ultimately, while the EV9 prioritizes durable, widespread soft-touch materials for a refined feel, the ID. Buzz offers a more visually dynamic and personality-driven interior, albeit with a few more hard plastic compromises. The choice here comes down to a preference for understated durability versus vibrant design.
Cargo Space: Utility Redefined
The ability to haul cargo, whether it’s groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for a family vacation, is a fundamental requirement for any family vehicle. While both the ID. Buzz and EV9 offer respectable cargo capacities, their design philosophies lead to vastly different practical applications.
Behind their respective third rows, both EVs offer similar measured cargo space, typically around 10 cubic feet. This is adequate for a small grocery run or a few backpacks. However, the ID. Buzz truly distinguishes itself when its third row is folded, and even more so when it’s entirely removed.
The ID. Buzz employs a unique cargo system featuring a shelf that, when in place, aligns the rearmost cargo area with the folded third-row backrest, creating a flat load floor. While there are convenient soft-sided storage bins beneath this shelf, they feel somewhat prone to getting soiled over time. With the third row folded, the ID. Buzz boasts a substantial 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space. But the real game-changer is the option to remove the third row entirely. By our measurements, this opens up a cavernous 48.9 cubic feet of space – more than double the EV9’s 23.4 cubic feet with its third row stowed. This modularity makes the ID. Buzz an unparalleled cargo hauler for large, bulky items, rivaling some traditional cargo vans. The downside? Each third-row section is heavy, weighing around 60 pounds, and requires a dedicated space for storage when not in use. Additionally, the cargo shelf must also be removed to achieve maximum volume, raising the load floor significantly.
The Kia EV9, by contrast, offers a much more conventional cargo area, akin to what you’d find in a gas-powered three-row SUV. It features a large cargo area with the third row up, expanding considerably when folded. The EV9 also provides useful underfloor storage and a small “frunk” (front trunk) – a feature notably absent in the ID. Buzz. While the EV9’s approach is simpler and avoids the heavy lifting associated with the ID. Buzz’s removable seats, it simply cannot match the sheer volume and flexibility offered by the Buzz’s van-like design when ultimate cargo capacity is required. For families that frequently need to transport large items or engage in weekend DIY projects, the ID. Buzz’s configurable interior is a major advantage in 2025.
Driving Experience: Nimble Van vs. Refined SUV
The driving experience is often the most subjective metric, yet it’s crucial for daily enjoyment and long-distance comfort. These two EVs deliver distinct road manners, each with its own character and charm.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz delivers a surprisingly delightful driving experience. Even in its Comfort drive mode, the accelerator pedal feels remarkably responsive from a standing start, translating to smooth, quiet, and predictable power delivery. The Buzz’s suspension tuning, while firm, exhibits a level of refinement that feels “buttoned up” and composed, effectively absorbing road imperfections without the excessive noise sometimes associated with larger electric platforms. The steering is light and effortless, contributing to a sense of nimbleness that belies its van dimensions. The “B” mode on the gear selector offers near-one-pedal driving, effectively slowing the vehicle to an almost complete stop, though a final tap of the brake pedal is still required. Despite its elevated driving position, the ID. Buzz never feels top-heavy; instead, it responds readily to steering inputs, making it surprisingly agile in urban environments. Forward visibility, while offering a unique perspective due to the short nose and expansive front glass, is generally good with no significant blind spots. The primary challenge remains the lack of true one-pedal driving, which some EV enthusiasts prefer for ultimate convenience.
The 2024 Kia EV9, while a very capable vehicle, offers a driving experience more aligned with a traditional SUV. Its driving position and outward visibility (aside from a somewhat sizable left-side B-pillar) are conventional and familiar. However, when compared directly to the ID. Buzz, the EV9’s suspension, while competent, feels less refined. It tends to generate more noise over broken or bumpy pavement and can feel somewhat rattly in general. That said, the EV9 counters with more aggressive regenerative braking levels, including a true one-pedal driving mode that brings the vehicle to a complete stop, a highly desired feature for many EV drivers. Its more powerful output means it will ultimately overpower the Buzz in a straight line, offering a relatively sportier feel, and its distinct drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) have a more noticeable impact on vehicle dynamics. Visibility is a strong suit for the EV9, with excellent forward views and superior rear visibility, augmented by a rearview camera mirror (useful when cargo or passengers obstruct the view) and Kia’s confidence-inspiring blind-spot camera feeds. In 2025, for a smooth, composed, and agile cruiser with a unique feel, the ID. Buzz shines. For a more conventional, powerful, and sporty SUV dynamic with robust regenerative braking, the EV9 is the preferred choice.
Cold-Weather Efficiency and Range: The Real-World Test
For any electric vehicle in regions experiencing colder climates, real-world efficiency and range degradation become critical factors. As an expert who has monitored EV performance in varying conditions for years, I understand that EPA estimates are just one piece of the puzzle. Our comprehensive cold-weather efficiency test, conducted on a roughly 110-mile route consisting primarily of interstate highways and country roads, with ambient temperatures hovering between 17 and 21 degrees Fahrenheit, offered invaluable insights. Climate systems were set to Auto mode at a comfortable cabin temperature, mirroring typical usage.
Before embarking on our test, both vehicles’ batteries were topped up. The EV9 displayed an estimated range of 249 miles, while the ID. Buzz showed 198 miles. Both figures were approximately 30 miles lower than their respective EPA estimates, illustrating the immediate impact of cold weather on projected range. The combination of higher speeds on the highway portions of our route and the biting cold temperatures inevitably accelerated range consumption.
Upon completing our route, the results were clear. The Kia EV9 traveled 113 miles, but consumed an estimated 135 miles of range, leaving it with 114 miles of remaining range. This translated to an efficiency average of 2.1 miles per kWh (mi/kWh). The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, completing 111 miles, consumed a more significant 150 miles of its estimated range, leaving it with a mere 48 miles of remaining range. Its efficiency average was 1.8 mi/kWh.
These findings highlight a crucial reality for 2025 EV ownership: cold weather severely impacts performance. While neither vehicle would be my first choice for a frequent, long-distance cold-weather road trip due to the increased charging frequency, the EV9’s superior starting range, larger battery, and slightly better cold-weather efficiency unequivocally make it the more tolerable option in freezing conditions. For families living in colder climates or those who anticipate frequent winter travel, the EV9’s greater resilience to range degradation offers a significant practical advantage and reduces the ever-present “range anxiety.”
Which Electric Family Hauler is Right for Your Family?
Deciding between the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the 2024 Kia EV9 ultimately comes down to a nuanced assessment of your family’s specific needs, driving habits, and aesthetic preferences. Both are pioneering electric vehicles for families in 2025, each excelling in distinct areas.
If your primary need is unparalleled passenger space, particularly a truly adult-friendly third row, and you prioritize a uniquely stylish, retro-futuristic aesthetic, the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an undeniable standout. It’s perfect for daily people-hauling, urban adventures, and families who embrace its distinct “van” character and the lifestyle statement it makes. Its exceptional cargo versatility when seats are removed is also a major draw for those who occasionally need to transport large, bulky items. However, its lower range, less refined user interface, and reduced cold-weather efficiency make it less ideal for frequent long-distance road trips, especially in challenging conditions. The ID. Buzz is more of a passion purchase, a joyful addition to a stable of cars, or a primary vehicle for families whose travel patterns are mostly localized.
Conversely, if you’re seeking a more conventional, well-rounded, and capable primary family vehicle, the 2024 Kia EV9 makes a compelling case. Its superior range, better cold-weather efficiency, and faster DC fast-charging capabilities provide greater flexibility and peace of mind for varied driving scenarios, from daily commutes to longer journeys. The EV9’s more intuitive user interface, premium interior quality, and conventional SUV driving dynamics offer a refined and predictable experience that will resonate with many traditional SUV owners. While its third row is better suited for children, its overall practicality, robust performance, and proven track record as a long-term tester position it as a highly competent and adaptable family EV for 2025. It’s the pragmatic choice for families demanding a strong blend of utility, technology, and range in a modern electric package.
In essence, the ID. Buzz is the heart-stirring, space-maximizing, and distinctly styled choice, perhaps best as a specialized family hauler or secondary vehicle. The EV9 is the head-first, highly capable, and versatile all-rounder, ready to serve as a primary family vehicle for most. No matter which you lean towards, both represent significant leaps forward in family-friendly electric mobility, demonstrating that sustainability and practicality can go hand-in-hand. Your ideal choice hinges on whether your family values expansive, customizable space and iconic style, or robust range, intuitive tech, and proven SUV utility.
Ready to experience the future of family electric vehicles firsthand and truly understand which groundbreaking model aligns with your family’s dynamic needs? We encourage you to explore these vehicles in detail and consider a personal test drive.
