Should you buy a new VW ID4 or a used VW ID Buzz?

Where are you better off spending your money? Is it on a new, sensible but slightly boring Volkswagen ID4 SUV, or a used, fun, but silly Volkswagen ID Buzz? Senior reviews writer Mario Christou shares his thoughts, and it’s closer than you might think.

Ah, the time-old battle of head versus heart. Do you get a take away dinner or grocery shop, a couple of beers or a glass of wine, or do you buy a used new electric SUV instead of a used electric people carrier?

That’s a question I’ve been weighing up, because Volkswagen makes two very capable cars in the ID4 SUV and the ID Buzz MPV. I’m going to make it clear from the off, I prefer the ID Buzz, and money no object it’s the car I’d choose – any day of the week.

But this is the real word, and money is a factor, a very important one at that. The ID Buzz is an expensive car, and in certain trims it’s simply too much money for what it is. That’s its biggest flaw, and it’s not something that affects the ID4 – which is far more keenly priced.

You can, however, buy a used ID Buzz for the same price as a new ID4, so where do you get more car for your money?

New Volkswagen ID4 v. used Volkswagen ID Buzz: design

It’s a no-brainer, isn’t it? The ID4 isn’t one of Volkswagen’s greatest hits, in fact it’s far from it. Even the two-tone paint options can’t make it interesting to look at, with its frumpy silhouette and blobby, molten-looking corners. It’s not exactly exciting.

The ID Buzz, meanwhile, takes the classic design cues from the iconic Type 2 (Transporter) and repurposes for the modern day. The ruler-straight shoulder line, front panel and dinky taillights channel the 1960s icon without looking kitchy or overly-retro. It’s a masterpiece.

First blood goes to the MPV, then.

New Volkswagen ID4 v. used Volkswagen ID Buzz: interiors

This is a bit harder to distinguish, because aside from the size difference, there are a great deal of similarities in both cars. For starters, you get the same basic infotainment system in both, as well as the same driver’s display and the same array of, scratchy plastics.

Seriously, for how much either of these cars cost, Volkswagen seriously dropped the ball when it comes to material quality – but this is extra poor on the ID Buzz given how expensive it is new. There’s also more of it, given the MPV’s sheer interior space, which doesn’t help.

There’s an extra risk to buying a used ID Buzz, and that’s the early version of Volkswagen’s infotainment display. It’s far laggier and prone to crashing than that in a new ID4, which has improved hardware and software.

The ID Buzz feels massive inside. Having lots of interior space is great, but it feels like you’re a mile away from your passenger at times. The ID4 offers a nice mix of being spacious in the right places, while feeling cosy in others.

You can have the ID Buzz as a seven seater, however, which is handy should you have a big family. Even still, I’ll give the ID4 the points in this case, because the ID Buzz is overkill for most peoples’ needs.

New Volkswagen ID4 v. used Volkswagen ID Buzz: driving

There’s far less in this than you might expect, going on appearances. The ID4 and ID Buzz are remarkably similar under the skin, because while the MPV may look like a van, it actually shares its basic chassis and motors with the smaller SUV. It is quite literally a massive car, rather than a poshed-up van.

Both are easy to potter around town in, with smooth electric motors, good visibility all round and comfortable suspension. The ID4 gets the upper hand on tight roads thanks to its smaller size, while on the motorway it’s quieter, with less wind and road noise. Both are fine on a country lane; capable, but unexciting.

Overall the ID4 is a more pleasant experience from behind the wheel. The ID Buzz is more fun, as you’re sat high up, peering over traffic, but it’s a pain in multistorey car parks and finding a parallel parking spot can be tricky.

New Volkswagen ID4 v. used Volkswagen ID Buzz: electric range

A benefit of the ID4’s smaller size, lower weight and slipperier shape is that it offers greater range than the brick-like ID Buzz. The ID4’s range varies from an unimpressive 222 miles to a much hardier 351 miles, depending on battery size. The ID Buzz meanwhile offers 253 miles in the smaller battery model, rising up to 293 miles in the longest-range trim.

New Volkswagen ID4 v. used Volkswagen ID Buzz: verdict

With its more sensible dimensions, spacious interior, better electric range and guaranteed warranty, a new Volkswagen ID4 makes for a better, more sensible purchase than a used Volkswagen ID Buzz. If you’re happy to live with its more reserved styling and boring driving manners, it makes for a good family SUV.

Yet, I wouldn’t buy one, because even with its downsides I’d still choose the ID Buzz. Why? Well, it all comes down to charm – something the big, funky MPV has in spades.

It’s inherently the same car as the ID4 under the skin, but driving it makes me happy in a way the SUV simply doesn’t. I love looking at it, I enjoy the smiles and waves I get from passers-by, and I’d much rather have it on my driveway. Preferably in red, with a white roof.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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*Savings are made up of the maximum dealer discount off RRP – subject to dealership, location and trim. Prices correct at the time of writing.