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2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz vs. Kia EV9: The Ultimate Family EV Showdown
As an automotive expert with a decade navigating the electric vehicle landscape, I’ve seen family transportation evolve at a breakneck pace. For 2025, two distinct yet equally compelling electric people-movers are vying for the attention of discerning American families: the retro-futuristic 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the bold, contemporary 2024 Kia EV9. While they inhabit different segments – one a reimagined electric van, the other a groundbreaking three-row electric SUV – both promise sustainable family transportation without compromising on practicality or modern appeal. Their as-tested pricing often hovers within a few thousand dollars, making this a truly head-to-head battle for your driveway.
This isn’t just about kilowatts and cubic feet; it’s about how these next-generation electric vehicles integrate into the complex tapestry of family life, from daily commutes and school runs to weekend adventures and longer road trips. Let’s delve into the nuances of these formidable contenders, exploring their strengths and weaknesses through the lens of real-world ownership and the rapidly evolving 2025 EV market. We’ll uncover which electric chariot truly stands out as the superior choice for your bustling household, considering everything from cabin comfort to EV charging infrastructure and long-term total cost of ownership.
Design Philosophy & First Impressions: Iconic Revival vs. Futuristic Grandeur
The initial impression these vehicles make couldn’t be more different, yet both exude a distinct personality. The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an undeniable conversation starter, a modern electric take on the legendary Microbus. Its two-tone paint schemes, short overhangs, and cheerful demeanor evoke a sense of nostalgia while firmly planting itself in the future with its sleek LED lighting and aerodynamic profile. It’s a design that’s playful, approachable, and screams “lifestyle vehicle,” immediately appealing to those who appreciate heritage infused with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. For families seeking a unique aesthetic and a vehicle that truly stands apart, the ID. Buzz delivers. Its upright stance and expansive glasshouse hint at the generous interior proportions within.
In stark contrast, the 2024 Kia EV9 presents a vision of unapologetic modernity. Its boxy, geometric lines, aggressive lighting signature, and substantial presence firmly establish it as a full-size, three-row electric SUV designed for the demands of the contemporary American family. The EV9 is less about looking back and more about boldly stepping forward, projecting an image of capability, sophistication, and a future-forward sensibility. It’s a design that feels robust and purposeful, blending a rugged SUV aesthetic with the clean lines expected of a premium electric vehicle. The EV9’s design speaks to a desire for mainstream acceptance and practical utility wrapped in a distinctive package that avoids the conventional.
From an expert perspective, the choice here often boils down to personal style and desired brand identity. The ID. Buzz offers a singular charm that few other vehicles can match, perfect for a family that values individuality and a lighthearted approach to their sustainable family transportation. The EV9, meanwhile, offers a more conventional, yet still striking, SUV appeal that might resonate with those looking for a more traditional — albeit electric — family hauler.
Command Center & Cabin Ergonomics: Digital Dominance vs. Balanced Controls
Stepping inside, the differing philosophies continue, particularly concerning the user interface and overall cabin ergonomics. As an expert, I’ve observed the automotive industry’s struggle with integrating digital interfaces, and both VW and Kia offer distinct approaches.
The Kia EV9 largely gets my vote for its more balanced approach. Its dual 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system are logically arranged, offering crisp graphics and responsive touch inputs. Crucially, Kia wisely retains a selection of physical buttons and dials for frequently used functions like climate control, audio volume, and drive modes. This blend provides a tactile reassurance that many drivers appreciate, reducing the need to dive into sub-menus while driving. The controls for the heated and ventilated seats are also easily accessible. While the slim climate control touch panel can be partially obscured by the steering wheel for some drivers, it’s a minor inconvenience compared to the overall user-friendliness. The inclusion of physical controls significantly enhances the driving experience, making adjustments more intuitive and less distracting, a critical factor for any family EV.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, while featuring a vibrant and equally responsive 12.9-inch central touchscreen, leans heavily into touch-sensitive controls across the cabin. This approach, which VW has refined (and sometimes struggled with) in other models, can be a source of frustration. The touch-sensitive steering wheel controls, for example, are prone to accidental activation, an annoyance I’ve experienced firsthand when unintentionally engaging cruise control. Similarly, the haptic sliders for volume and temperature, while visually sleek, lack the precise feedback of a physical knob. While the system’s tile-based menus are reasonably intuitive, the reliance on touch for essential functions necessitates a steeper learning curve and can divert attention from the road. This digital-first strategy is forward-looking, but sometimes at the expense of ergonomic simplicity. While the graphics are excellent and vibrant, the constant interaction with touch-sensitive surfaces can diminish the otherwise pleasant driving environment.
From an expert’s standpoint, while both systems are technologically advanced, the EV9’s retention of key physical controls provides a significant practical advantage for daily use, especially when navigating unfamiliar routes or needing quick adjustments without taking eyes off the road. This contributes positively to both safety and driver satisfaction, key considerations for any electric SUV comparison.
Family Comfort & Passenger Experience: Van-Like Volume vs. SUV Practicality
When it comes to the core mission of these vehicles – moving people – the interior space and comfort become paramount. Here, the distinct body styles play a decisive role.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz truly shines in maximizing occupant space across all three rows. Thanks to its van-like architecture, the ID. Buzz offers an astonishing amount of headroom and legroom, particularly in the second and third rows. The second row feels genuinely expansive, easily accommodating adults with ample knee room, even surpassing the already comfortable EV9. What truly sets the ID. Buzz apart is its third row. Unlike many three-row SUVs where the rearmost seats are best reserved for children, the ID. Buzz comfortably accommodates taller adults. Passengers in the third row won’t feel cramped or like an afterthought; they’ll have sufficient head- and legroom, making it a truly usable space for multi-generational trips or carpooling. While the front seats are comfortable, the driving position is more upright, akin to a delivery van, which might require some adjustment. Entry and exit might benefit from running boards for some, given the high seating position.
The 2024 Kia EV9 offers a very strong showing for a three-row SUV. Its first and second-row seats are exceptionally comfortable, featuring excellent cushioning and support, particularly the ventilated captain’s chairs in the second row. These amenities, coupled with integrated window sunshades and an open cabin feel aided by a dual moonroof, create a luxurious and accommodating environment. However, when it comes to the third row, the EV9, while good for its class, can’t quite match the sheer volume of the ID. Buzz. Adults can manage in the EV9’s third row for shorter trips, especially if second-row passengers slide their seats forward slightly, but it’s still best suited for children or smaller adults. Access to the third row is facilitated by convenient one-touch folding and sliding second-row seats, making it a breeze for kids to clamber in.
For families prioritizing maximum occupant comfort and genuine adult-friendly seating in all three rows, the ID. Buzz is the clear winner. Its extended wheelbase and clever packaging translate directly into unparalleled passenger room, making it the ideal electric van for large families or those who frequently transport multiple adults.
Utility Unleashed: Storage & Cargo Versatility for Active Families
A family vehicle must excel not just at carrying people but also at accommodating their gear. This is where cargo capacity and clever in-cabin storage solutions come into play.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz offers a fascinating and highly versatile approach to cargo management. Behind the third row, our measurements showed around 10 cubic feet, similar to the EV9. However, the ID. Buzz truly shines when you start folding or removing seats. With the third row folded down, cargo space expands to a generous 30.8 cubic feet. The real magic happens when you remove the third row entirely; this transforms the ID. Buzz into a cavernous hauler with a massive 48.9 cubic feet of space – more than double the EV9’s 23.4 cubic feet when its third row is down. This flexibility makes it ideal for transporting large items, sporting equipment, or even serving as a small utility vehicle. The optional cargo shelf is a clever addition, creating a flat load floor when the third row is folded and offering hidden storage bins underneath. However, the third-row seats are heavy (around 60 pounds per section) and require manual removal, and the cargo shelf must also be taken out for maximum space. The absence of a frunk (front trunk) is also noteworthy for some electric vehicle technology enthusiasts.
The 2024 Kia EV9, by contrast, features a more conventional yet highly effective cargo area. It provides a respectable amount of space behind the third row and a substantial increase when the third row is folded flat. Its design is similar to what you’d find in a traditional gas-powered three-row SUV, making it immediately familiar and easy to use. The EV9 also boasts underfloor storage in the cargo area and a small but useful frunk, perfect for stashing charging cables or small bags, offering a practical advantage for long-range electric vehicles that might rely on public charging. While its maximum cargo volume doesn’t match the ID. Buzz with its seats removed, the EV9’s everyday usability for luggage, groceries, and strollers is excellent without requiring seat removal.
For sheer volume and ultimate versatility in cargo hauling, especially for oversized items when the third row is out, the ID. Buzz is the undisputed champion. For families who prefer a more conventional, always-ready cargo space without the need to remove heavy seats, and appreciate the added utility of a frunk, the EV9 offers a highly practical and user-friendly solution. This decision often hinges on whether your family prioritizes occasional massive hauls or consistent, convenient cargo access.
The Road Ahead: Driving Dynamics & Performance for 2025
The driving experience in a family vehicle is more than just acceleration; it encompasses ride quality, handling, and overall refinement. Both the ID. Buzz and EV9 offer distinct personalities behind the wheel.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz delivers a genuinely pleasant surprise. Despite its van-like proportions and heavier curb weight, it feels remarkably nimble and agile. Its dual-motor AWD powertrain, producing 335 horsepower, provides smooth, quiet, and responsive acceleration for city driving and confident highway merging. The ID. Buzz’s suspension tuning is exceptionally refined; it feels buttoned-up, absorbing road imperfections with a composure that minimizes cabin noise and harshness. The steering is light and precise, making the vehicle easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While not offering full one-pedal driving, its “B” mode provides strong regenerative braking, bringing the van to an almost complete stop. Outward visibility is generally good, though the upright windshield and short nose create a unique perspective that takes some getting used to. This electric van truly excels as a pleasant cruiser, making it an ideal choice for relaxed family journeys.
The 2024 Kia EV9, with its more powerful 379-horsepower AWD setup, offers a different flavor of performance. It’s the relatively sportier choice, capable of quicker acceleration and feeling more potent at higher speeds. The EV9’s different drive modes (Eco, Sport) also have a more pronounced effect on the driving experience, truly transforming its character. However, compared to the refined ID. Buzz, the EV9’s suspension can feel firmer and more prone to transmitting road imperfections into the cabin, leading to more tire and wind noise at highway speeds. While it drives much like a conventional SUV, which many find appealing, its ride quality isn’t quite as plush as the VW’s. The EV9 offers multiple levels of regenerative braking, including a true one-pedal driving mode, which is a significant convenience. Forward visibility is good, and the EV9 benefits from excellent rear visibility (aided by a camera mirror option) and Kia’s confidence-inspiring blind-spot camera views.
For those who prioritize a supremely refined, quiet, and surprisingly agile ride for family excursions, the ID. Buzz offers a compelling package. For drivers seeking a more traditional SUV feel with punchier acceleration and the convenience of one-pedal driving, the EV9 is a strong contender. The choice here largely depends on whether your preference leans towards a smooth, composed cruiser or a more dynamically engaging electric SUV. Both represent excellent strides in EV performance metrics.
Range, Recharging, and Real-World Endurance in 2025
For any family EV, especially in the 2025 landscape, EV range and efficient charging are critical considerations for minimizing range anxiety and maximizing utility.
The 2024 Kia EV9, with its larger 99.8-kWh battery pack, boasts an EPA-estimated range of 280 miles for the AWD Land trim. In our cold-weather efficiency testing (around 17-21 degrees Fahrenheit), the EV9 proved slightly more efficient, averaging 2.1 miles per kWh, and still showed a remaining range of 114 miles after a 113-mile drive, consuming 135 miles of estimated range. Its DC fast-charging capabilities are robust, rated at up to 210 kW. This combination of superior range and swift charging makes the EV9 a more tolerable option for longer journeys, even in less-than-ideal conditions. For families considering long-range electric vehicles for occasional road trips, the EV9 holds a distinct advantage.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, equipped with a 91-kWh battery, has an EPA-estimated range of 231 miles for the AWD Pro S Plus trim. In the same cold-weather test, the ID. Buzz averaged 1.8 miles per kWh. After traveling 111 miles, it had consumed 150 miles of estimated range, leaving just 48 miles remaining. Its DC fast-charging is rated up to 200 kW. While still respectable, the ID. Buzz’s lower overall range and slightly less efficient cold-weather performance mean it would require more frequent charging stops on extended trips, making it less ideal for impromptu EV road trips in colder climates.
For daily commuting and local errands, both vehicles offer ample range. However, when considering the demands of family travel, especially in varying temperatures, the EV9’s greater battery capacity and superior efficiency provide a crucial edge. In 2025, with increasing expectations for EV battery life and improved EV charging infrastructure, this difference in range and cold-weather performance becomes a more significant factor for many buyers. Ensuring access to reliable public charging networks like Electrify America or EVGo, alongside robust home charging solutions, is paramount for maximizing the utility of either vehicle.
The Verdict: Choosing Your Electric Family Companion for 2025
After a comprehensive review, both the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the 2024 Kia EV9 stand as compelling choices in the evolving family EV market. The “better” vehicle ultimately hinges on your family’s specific priorities and lifestyle.
Opt for the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz if:
You prioritize maximum occupant space across all three rows, genuinely accommodating adults comfortably, making it an unrivaled electric people-mover.
You value a unique, retro-futuristic design that stands out and evokes a sense of joy and nostalgia.
Your family needs unparalleled cargo versatility, especially the ability to transform into a massive hauler by removing the third row.
You appreciate a remarkably refined, quiet, and surprisingly agile driving experience that excels in urban environments and relaxed cruising.
Your primary use case is daily family transport and local adventures, with less emphasis on frequent, long-distance cold-weather road trips.
You’re looking for a statement vehicle, perhaps as an addition to an existing stable of cars, or you’ve always dreamed of owning a modern electric interpretation of the iconic VW Bus.
Choose the 2024 Kia EV9 if:
You need a highly capable and stylish three-row electric SUV that seamlessly blends into the mainstream while offering a bold, futuristic design.
You prefer a more balanced user interface with a blend of intuitive touchscreen functionality and essential physical controls, reducing driver distraction.
Your family values premium interior comfort and amenities, especially in the first and second rows, with a third row that’s highly functional for children and adequate for occasional adult use.
You desire superior EV range and better cold-weather efficiency, making it a more viable option for longer family road trips, even if not an ultimate cross-country cruiser.
You appreciate the convenience of a frunk and a more conventional, always-ready cargo area.
You’re looking for a well-rounded primary electric vehicle that can handle diverse family needs, from school runs to occasional longer excursions, with confidence in its DC fast-charging capabilities.
No matter which of these exceptional next-gen electric vehicles you ultimately choose, you’re investing in a future of cleaner, quieter, and more sophisticated family travel. Both offer incredible value for their innovation and utility, pushing the boundaries of what sustainable family transportation can be in 2025.
Considering the rapid pace of electric vehicle technology advancements, test driving both is crucial. Experience the unique charm of the ID. Buzz and the modern prowess of the EV9 firsthand. Only then can you truly determine which revolutionary family EV is the perfect fit for your evolving life.
Ready to Electrify Your Family Adventures?
The future of family driving is here, and it’s electric. Don’t just read about these groundbreaking vehicles – experience them for yourself. Visit your local Volkswagen or Kia dealership today to get behind the wheel of the 2025 ID. Buzz or the 2024 EV9. Discover which one truly resonates with your family’s needs and embark on your next journey with confidence and sustainability.
