VW ID. Buzz Named 2025 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year

Volkswagen is happy to announce that the VW ID. Buzz has been named the 2025 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year. This prestigious honor was revealed today at the 2025 Detroit Auto Show, cementing the ID. Buzz’s place as a groundbreaking vehicle in the automotive world.

A modern reinterpretation of Volkswagen’s iconic Microbus, the ID. Buzz claimed the top spot in the Utility Vehicle category by combining innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and an all-electric powertrain. Its unique blend of style, space, and sustainability captured the attention of both the automotive industry and the public.

Related: VW ID. Buzz Named Car and Driver 10Best

“The ID. Buzz is a unique vehicle on the North American market, as it is the only electric bus available right now,” said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America. “We are pleased that the experts on the jury appreciated its combination of style, space, and refinement, all packaged in a vehicle that has zero tailpipe emissions. And it does this while bringing a smile to the face of anyone who sees one on the street.”

The 2025 North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) Awards are among the automotive industry’s most prestigious accolades. These awards recognize vehicles that excel in innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction, user experience, and value. The ID. Buzz was evaluated by a jury of 50 esteemed automotive journalists from across the U.S. and Canada, emerging victorious among three finalists in its category.

The ID. Buzz stands out with its retro-inspired design, highlighted by a bold VW logo and vibrant two-tone exterior paint options that nod to its iconic predecessor. Inside, the vehicle offers three available interior color themes—Moonlight, Dune, and Copper—that complement its spacious and modern cabin. Standard features include a 12.9-inch infotainment display, 30-color ambient lighting, IQ.DRIVE® Level 2-ready driver assistance technology, and power sliding doors and tailgate.

Performance is equally impressive. The rear-wheel-drive ID. Buzz Pro model delivers 282 horsepower and boasts an EPA-estimated range of 234 miles, while the 4Motion® all-wheel-drive model offers 335 horsepower and an EPA-estimated range of 231 miles.

For those seeking an elevated experience, the ID. Buzz Pro S Plus trim includes premium features such as Easy Open for the sliding doors and tailgate, Harman Kardon™ premium audio, a head-up display, and AreaView technology. The base model seats seven passengers with a second-row bench seat, while the all-wheel-drive and Pro S models feature captain’s chairs, providing seating for six.

The ID. Buzz isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a statement of innovation and joy on the road. With its combination of iconic heritage and forward-thinking technology, the ID. Buzz is a true game-changer, setting a new benchmark for utility vehicles in North America.