2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz vs. 2024 Kia EV9: Navigating the Future of Family EVs
The electric vehicle (EV) revolution has irrevocably transformed the automotive lands
cape, and in 2025, families are presented with more compelling, innovative choices than ever before. Two distinct contenders are drawing significant attention in the three-row electric segment: the highly anticipated 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the already established 2024 Kia EV9. As someone who has dedicated a decade to dissecting the intricacies of electric mobility and family transportation, I can attest that these vehicles, despite their vastly different aesthetics, share a common mission: to redefine the family hauler for the sustainable era. What’s particularly intriguing is their competitive positioning, with as-tested pricing often within a few thousand dollars, forcing a direct head-to-head evaluation.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is more than just a new electric van; it’s a meticulously engineered homage to an icon, reimagined for the digital age. Our Pro S Plus AWD test model, boasting an EPA-estimated 231 miles of range from its 91-kWh battery, clocked in at $70,540 (all prices include destination). Its dual-motor powertrain delivers a robust 335 horsepower, and VW claims a DC fast-charging capability of up to 200 kilowatts. This vehicle isn’t just transport; it’s a statement, promising a blend of retro charm and cutting-edge EV technology.
In stark contrast, the 2024 Kia EV9, a long-term fixture in our evaluation fleet, represents the pragmatic, futuristic side of the segment. Our Land trim AWD, with its 99.8-kWh battery, offers a more generous EPA-estimated 280 miles of range. Slightly more potent at 379 horsepower and capable of marginally quicker DC fast-charging at up to 210 kW, its as-tested price was $74,305. The EV9 has quickly carved out a niche as a formidable electric SUV, emphasizing modern design and everyday usability.
While one exudes a retro-futuristic van persona and the other a sleek, contemporary SUV silhouette, at their core, both are sophisticated people-movers designed to navigate the demands of family life. Our comprehensive evaluation dives deep into their strengths and weaknesses, from the nuances of interior ergonomics to real-world energy consumption, offering a seasoned perspective on which might best suit your family’s dynamic lifestyle in 2025.
Cabin Command & Passenger Comfort: The Ultimate People-Mover Test
When it comes to the primary function of a family vehicle – comfortably transporting its occupants – the 2025 ID. Buzz emerges as a clear frontrunner, particularly for those prioritizing maximum spatial generosity across all three rows. From my perspective, having evaluated countless family haulers, the ID. Buzz truly excels in this domain.
The driving position in the ID. Buzz is notably elevated, reminiscent of classic vans, which might require a slight climb for some drivers – an observation that suggests integrated running boards could enhance ingress/egress. Once settled, the upright windshield and extended roofline offer a unique vantage point, though I did find myself occasionally craning to spot overhead traffic lights, a minor quirk of its distinctive design. While the ID. Buzz’s seats might not possess the immediate plushness of the EV9’s initial rows, they are undeniably comfortable and supportive for long journeys.
However, the ID. Buzz’s real triumph lies in its overall passenger volume, especially in the crucial third row. This isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a genuinely spacious area, mirroring the comfort and legroom typically found in an EV9’s second row. The Kia’s two-person third row, while functional, is significantly more compact. Adults can manage it with some compromise from second-row passengers sliding their seats forward, but it ultimately feels best reserved for children. In the ID. Buzz, taller adults can occupy the rearmost seats without complaint, making it a truly versatile proposition for multi-generational families or carpooling duties. This is a crucial distinction for families who frequently utilize all available seating.
From a co-pilot’s perspective, having spent extensive time in both, the EV9’s front seats offer a slight edge in initial cushioning and contouring, providing a snugger fit for a broader range of body types. Yet, the ID. Buzz remains a perfectly pleasant place to command. The VW’s extended wheelbase truly shines in the second row; while the EV9’s captain’s chairs (complete with ventilation and integrated sunshades) offer a premium experience, the ID. Buzz simply delivers more raw, unadulterated space. For me, space trumps all in a family vehicle, and the ID. Buzz delivers in spades.
The third-row access also warrants mention. The EV9 offers a convenient one-touch folding and sliding mechanism for its second row, simplifying entry. The ID. Buzz’s system, while perhaps less automated, is equally intuitive and benefits from a wider aperture, further enhancing the ease with which passengers can reach the back. This becomes a significant factor for busy parents or carpool drivers in 2025, where efficiency and ease of use are paramount.
Smart Storage Solutions: Keeping Chaos at Bay
In the constant battle against in-cabin clutter, the 2024 Kia EV9 demonstrates a more pragmatic and family-oriented approach to storage, earning its stripes for sheer utility. My ten years of experience have shown that families need robust, well-thought-out solutions for everything from sippy cups to school bags, and the EV9 addresses this more directly.
The EV9’s front center console is a masterclass in functional design, offering ample nooks for small essentials, dedicated cupholders, and a generous open lower storage area beneath the console – perfect for larger items like a purse or small backpack. It’s a space that naturally accommodates the detritus of daily family life.
The ID. Buzz, while undeniably open and airy, prioritizes aesthetic minimalism over overt storage functionality. Its center console between the front seats is notably smaller, with limited compartments for stashing smaller items. While it features a clever small bin that opens from the backside, it pales in comparison to the EV9’s expansive provisions.
As a practical user, I appreciate some of the whimsical storage touches in the ID. Buzz, like the dividers in the console bin that double as a bottle opener and ice scraper. They’re undoubtedly “fun,” but they don’t solve the fundamental need for substantial, easily accessible storage. There’s plenty of floor space up front in the ID. Buzz for a backpack, but it lacks dedicated, secure compartments. Furthermore, the single movable center console, while versatile, means second-row passengers lack their own dedicated storage, a notable omission in a vehicle so focused on passenger comfort. The cleverly integrated wireless phone charger, while functional, couldn’t accommodate my Otterbox-encased iPhone 12, a minor but recurring frustration for those of us who prioritize device protection.
The EV9’s storage ecosystem, while less “interesting” to describe, is profoundly more effective in practice. Its larger console bin, the expansive under-console space, and the more refined implementation of slide-out bins and trays for second-row passengers all contribute to a cabin that simply works better for active families. This practical approach to storage is a significant differentiator in the “luxury electric SUV” segment for 2025.
Digital Domicile: User Experience & Infotainment Integration
In the modern EV, the user interface (UI) and infotainment system are critical touchpoints, and here, the 2024 Kia EV9 takes a decisive lead, thanks to its judicious balance of digital displays and essential physical controls. My long-standing contention is that critical functions benefit from tactile feedback, and the EV9 largely adheres to this philosophy, offering a more intuitive and less distracting experience.
The EV9’s touchscreen infotainment system is intuitively laid out, with logical menus and responsive performance. Crucially, Kia has retained physical buttons for frequently accessed features like climate control temperature and heated/ventilated seat functions. This hybrid approach allows drivers to make quick adjustments without diverting attention from the road – a significant safety advantage. My only minor gripe is the small climate system touch panel on the dashboard, which can be partially obscured by the steering wheel. However, the ability to expand these controls to the central touchscreen mitigates this. The steering wheel also occasionally blocks camera views that activate with the turn signal, a minor oversight that could be improved.
The ID. Buzz’s infotainment screen itself is quite impressive, boasting vibrant colors and reasonably intuitive tile menus. However, Volkswagen’s broader reliance on touch-sensitive controls beyond the main screen continues to be a source of frustration, a weakness I’ve observed across several VW models in recent years. The touch-sensitive steering wheel controls, for instance, are prone to accidental activation – I’ve inadvertently engaged cruise control with a simple hand swipe. Similarly, the touch sliders for volume and temperature, while responsive, lack the precision and tactile certainty of physical knobs. This “all-touch” philosophy, while aesthetically clean, often sacrifices usability in real-world driving.
From a road test editor’s perspective, the VW’s UI is a constant battle. The multi-function, touch-sensitive steering wheel controls are a particular pain point, despite VW addressing similar issues in other models. Other controls struggle with visibility in varying light conditions, and while the slider controls for volume and temperature are reactive, they’re inherently imprecise. The infotainment screen, while graphically excellent, occasionally introduces unnecessary pauses when adjusting climate settings or even locks itself for “safety reasons,” disrupting the flow. Key features are often buried deep within multiple menus, demanding excessive screen interaction where a dedicated button would suffice.
Conversely, the EV9’s UI is far more straightforward. It prioritizes physical controls for critical functions like climate, audio, camera, and drive modes. While its 12.3-inch infotainment screen is slightly smaller and more landscape-oriented than the ID. Buzz’s 12.9-inch unit, it performs admirably. The EV9 isn’t entirely without its quirks; the climate display being obscured by the steering wheel is an annoyance, and the touch-sensitive controls below the screen are sometimes accidentally triggered when resting a hand on the console. The combination of the drive mode selector and start-stop button can also be unintuitive initially. Despite these minor foibles, the EV9’s commitment to a balanced control scheme makes it the more user-friendly option for daily family use. This thoughtful design for 2025 family EVs is a testament to Kia’s understanding of driver needs.
Craftsmanship & Cabin Ambiance: The $70,000 Question
When evaluating the interior quality of vehicles hovering around the $70,000 mark, my decade of experience dictates a certain expectation of premium materials and meticulous assembly. Both the 2024 Kia EV9 and the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz deliver solid, well-constructed interiors, but neither fully convinces me that they are delivering an unequivocally “luxury” cabin experience at this price point. The EV9, however, edges out the ID. Buzz in material selection and overall perceived quality.
The EV9’s cabin benefits from a generous application of soft-touch surfaces in key areas where occupants naturally interact, such as armrests and upper door panels. This immediately conveys a sense of quality and comfort. The all-gray interior of our test EV9, however, can feel a bit somber, lacking the visual dynamism that some competitors offer. Despite logging over 10,000 miles, the EV9’s interior has demonstrated excellent durability; there are no discernible signs of wear or persistent creaks, which speaks volumes about its build quality.
The ID. Buzz, while undeniably well-built and featuring some visually interesting and tactile materials on select surfaces, relies more heavily on hard plastics in areas that are frequently touched. While its lighter-colored and generally more colorful interior aesthetic creates a more playful and inviting ambiance, the sheer quantity of plastic compared to the EV9 is noticeable. It’s a solid, cheerful space, but it doesn’t quite meet the material sophistication I’d expect for its price tag. In 2025, consumers expect a higher baseline for sustainable interior materials and design from premium EVs.
Ultimately, the EV9’s interior, with its superior soft-touch material distribution and evident long-term durability, feels a touch more refined and aligned with its “luxury electric SUV” aspirations. The ID. Buzz offers character in spades, but the tactile experience is a notch below.
Versatile Hauling: Cargo & Utility for Every Adventure
For families, cargo capacity and versatility are often as crucial as passenger comfort, and in this arena, the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz leverages its van-like architecture to offer a uniquely flexible, and ultimately more cavernous, hauling solution. While measured cargo space behind the third row is surprisingly similar – around 10 cubic feet by our measurements – the ID. Buzz truly distinguishes itself when its rear seats are folded or, more dramatically, removed entirely.
The ID. Buzz employs a clever cargo shelf system that, when the third row is folded, creates a flat loading floor aligned with the seatbacks. Beneath this shelf are soft-sided storage bins, a practical but somewhat curious addition that might, over time, become prone to grime like a reusable shopping bag. With the third row folded, the ID. Buzz offers a respectable 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space. However, the real game-changer is the ability to entirely remove the third row, unlocking a colossal 48.9 cubic feet of cargo volume. This is more than double the EV9’s 23.4 cubic feet when its third row is down, making the ID. Buzz an unparalleled gear hauler. The caveat: each section of the third row is heavy (approximately 60 pounds), and the cargo shelf must also be removed to achieve maximum space.
The 2024 Kia EV9, by comparison, offers a more conventional cargo area, akin to what one would find in a large gasoline-powered three-row SUV. It provides a substantial space with the third row up and even more with it folded, complemented by practical underfloor storage and a small “frunk” (front trunk). While the EV9’s frunk adds a useful, albeit modest, amount of secure storage – a feature notably absent in the ID. Buzz – it cannot match the sheer volume and flexibility of the VW when maximum cargo capacity is required.
From a practical perspective, the ID. Buzz’s cargo shelf, while creating a flat load floor, also significantly raises it, potentially limiting the height of items that can be carried. But the ability to transform the vehicle into a vast, empty canvas by removing the entire third row is a huge advantage for specific use cases, such as moving furniture or transporting bulky sports equipment. You’ll just need a dedicated storage space for those heavy seats when not in use. For families prioritizing the occasional need to haul significant amounts of gear alongside passengers, the ID. Buzz’s unique modularity for 2025 cargo capacity makes it a compelling choice.
The Drive: Dynamics, Refinement & Real-World Agility
Stepping behind the wheel of these two electric family haulers reveals distinct driving personalities, and to my pleasant surprise, the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz delivers a remarkably refined and agile driving experience that belies its retro-van aesthetic. While both vehicles exhibit firm suspension tuning, the ID. Buzz’s setup feels considerably more buttoned-up and less intrusive, offering a level of sophistication not always found in the family segment.
Even in its Comfort drive mode, the ID. Buzz feels more responsive off the line than the EV9, with a more immediate and predictable accelerator pedal. Power delivery is consistently smooth and quiet, contributing to a genuinely serene cabin environment. The VW’s suspension effectively dampens road imperfections, and notably, it generates less audible noise over broken pavement compared to the Kia. Steering is light and direct, making the ID. Buzz surprisingly nimble for its size. The “B” mode on the gear selector provides near-one-pedal driving functionality, requiring only a gentle brake application for a complete stop, which enhances urban driving ease. Despite its elevated seating position, the ID. Buzz feels planted, not top-heavy, responding eagerly to steering inputs. Outward visibility is generally good, with the unique front glass and short nose offering a distinctive but effective view of the road.
The 2024 Kia EV9, meanwhile, offers a driving experience that closely mirrors that of a conventional three-row SUV, albeit one powered by electricity. Its driving position and outward visibility are familiar, though I did find the left-side B-pillar to be somewhat obstructive. While the EV9 is perfectly competent, its suspension, compared to the ID. Buzz, transmits more road noise and feels somewhat harsher over rougher surfaces, resulting in a more “rattly” sensation. On the regenerative braking front, the EV9 offers multiple levels, including a robust one-pedal driving mode, which some drivers prefer.
From a dynamic perspective, despite the ID. Buzz’s heavier curb weight and lower output (335 hp vs. 379 hp), it feels sufficiently quick for city driving and capable of confident highway merging and passing. The ride is well-composed, if firm, and wind noise is the primary intrusion at higher speeds. The absence of a true one-pedal driving mode in the ID. Buzz (where the vehicle comes to a complete stop without brake pedal input) is a minor drawback, as its B mode can lead to slightly jerky stops if not managed carefully. The outward visibility in the ID. Buzz, while generally good, can be compromised in the rear if the third-row headrests are up or passengers are present, without a compensating camera mirror.
The EV9, in contrast, feels more conventionally sporty. Its different drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—exert a more pronounced influence on the driving dynamics, offering a tangible shift in responsiveness. While the ID. Buzz might have an initial edge in responsiveness, the EV9 ultimately feels more potent at higher speeds, making it the relatively sportier choice for enthusiast drivers. Forward visibility in the EV9 is excellent, perhaps even marginally better than the VW, and rear visibility is significantly superior, enhanced by an available camera mirror and Kia’s confident blind-spot camera views. For families seeking a dynamic, comfortable, and intuitive driving experience from their “three-row electric SUV” in 2025, both offer compelling arguments.
Conquering the Cold: Real-World Efficiency & Range Resilience
For any electric vehicle, particularly a family hauler intended for varied climates, real-world efficiency and range in adverse conditions are paramount. In our cold-weather efficiency test, the 2024 Kia EV9 demonstrated a clear advantage over the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, not just in its slightly better efficiency but, more critically, in its superior overall driving range when temperatures plummet.
Our comprehensive 110-mile test route, comprising mostly interstate highways and country roads, was conducted in frigid conditions, with ambient temperatures ranging from 17 to 21 degrees Fahrenheit. Both vehicles were driven as they would be in everyday use, with climate systems in Auto mode and set to a comfortable cabin temperature. Prior to the drive, the EV9 displayed 249 miles of estimated range, while the ID. Buzz showed 198 miles – both figures roughly 30 miles less than their respective EPA estimates, illustrating the immediate impact of cold weather.
At the conclusion of our route, the EV9 had traveled 113 miles, consuming 135 miles of estimated range, leaving it with a comfortable 114 miles remaining. It averaged 2.1 miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The ID. Buzz, meanwhile, covered 111 miles but consumed a more significant 150 miles of range, ending with a mere 48 miles remaining. Its efficiency averaged 1.8 miles per kWh. This stark difference highlights the importance of battery capacity and thermal management in cold climates.
While neither vehicle would be my first choice for an extended cold-weather road trip due to the increased frequency of charging stops required, the EV9’s greater initial range and superior cold-weather efficiency undeniably make it the more tolerable option. For families in colder regions, this becomes a critical factor in “EV range optimization” and overall “electric vehicle investment” strategy. The EV9’s performance here solidifies its position as a more robust choice for year-round primary vehicle duties.
Beyond the Numbers: Ownership & Lifestyle
Choosing between the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the 2024 Kia EV9 isn’t merely about specifications; it’s a decision that deeply intertwines with your family’s lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and practical needs for the next decade of “sustainable family transportation.” Both represent significant investments in “premium electric family cars,” but cater to slightly different visions of the future.
The ID. Buzz is an experience. It’s a nostalgic nod to automotive history, injected with cutting-edge “electric vehicle technology” and a dose of pure joy. If you envision your family making a unique statement, if you crave maximum passenger space for carpooling or large family outings, and if you appreciate a surprisingly refined and agile driving dynamic, the ID. Buzz is undeniably captivating. It’s a perfect secondary vehicle for an affluent family, or a primary vehicle for those whose daily range needs are modest and prioritize the “future of electric minivans” with a strong emotional appeal. The unique cargo flexibility, while requiring some effort, also makes it incredibly versatile for those occasional large hauls.
The EV9, conversely, is the quintessential “three-row electric SUV” for the modern family. It’s a pragmatic, highly capable, and well-rounded electric primary vehicle. Its superior range, particularly in cold weather, makes it a more confident choice for diverse climates and longer commutes. The intuitive user interface, thoughtful storage solutions, and robust interior quality contribute to a seamless daily ownership experience. It embodies the essence of “luxury electric SUV features” without unnecessary flair, focusing on functionality and comfort. For families needing a reliable, efficient, and versatile EV to serve as their main mode of transport, the EV9’s capabilities make it a strong contender for “best electric family car 2025.”
The Verdict: Tailoring Your Electric Future
Ultimately, the choice between the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and the 2024 Kia EV9 hinges on your specific priorities and how you intend to integrate a “sustainable automotive technology” into your life. If your primary need is a dedicated people-hauler, routinely transporting multiple adults or larger families with unparalleled comfort and space, the ID. Buzz is an exceptional choice. It offers a unique character and a driving experience that genuinely sparks joy. It’s also the perfect “lifestyle vehicle” for those who want a futuristic reinterpretation of a classic, providing a distinctive presence on the road.
However, if you require a more versatile, long-range “electric vehicle investment” that can confidently serve as your family’s primary mode of transportation – adept at both daily commutes and occasional longer journeys, particularly in colder climates – the EV9’s added range, conventional SUV capabilities, and more user-friendly interface make it the more well-rounded and practical option.
Both vehicles represent significant leaps forward in the family EV segment for 2025, demonstrating excellent quality and pushing the boundaries of what electric family cars can be. Your decision will be a testament to whether your family values audacious style and maximum passenger space above all else, or prefers pragmatic range, refined utility, and a more conventional (yet highly advanced) SUV experience.
Considering the landscape of “EV ownership costs 2025” and the evolving “EV charging infrastructure 2025,” either of these vehicles offers a compelling vision for your electric future. The real question isn’t which is objectively “better,” but which is “better for you.”
Ready to electrify your family’s journey? We invite you to explore these groundbreaking electric vehicles firsthand. Visit our dealership or website today to schedule a personalized consultation and test drive, allowing you to experience the future of family transportation and determine which EV truly aligns with your family’s unique aspirations.
