After only 30 seconds of silently gliding through the streets and past cyclists in Copenhagen, Denmark in my Volkswagen ID. Buzz I quickly realized this car was something unique. Passersby whipped out their phones to capture a glimpse while children smiled and pointed – for that moment I wasn’t just driving any old van…I had become an icon.

Coincidentally, this was Volkswagen’s plan 25 years ago with the New Beetle. It’s simple to trace a clear line between the ID Buzz and that original brush of nostalgia from 1997. Both these cars bring back classic designs while not hiding their mechanically unappealing components.

Time is of the essence with these classic projects, but even amidst their flaws, I’m feeling optimistic that Volkswagen’s latest halo product will outshine its predecessor upon its 2024 launch in North America. After a sneak peek at the Buzz model, my faith has been restored–now we’ll just have to wait and see if it can live up to expectations.

The A-pillars of the vehicle extend far ahead with expansive front quarter windows, which have been designed to emulate the characteristic wraparound feel of its predecessor, the Type 2. Despite this, a slim rear window and lack of overhead windows that are typical in 21-window Buses mean that you don’t get quite as much fresh air within its cabin. Nonetheless, I’m willing to take advantage of what is sure to be immense improvements in crash protection from its steel roof.

Volkswagen has yet to reveal the interior measurements, but their second-row bench seats have already proven themselves superior. The flat and well-cushioned benches offer a sliding feature that can move both of them forwards and backward with minimal impact on cargo space – you could even recline on either side while still splitting them! When the long wheelbase ID Buzz model reaches North American shores, we’re sure that it will be an improvement in every respect.

Source: insideevs