Northern Group Car of the Year 2023: Volkswagen ID Buzz Wins Family Car Category

Volkswagen has scored a class victory in the Northern Group of Motoring Writers’ 2023 Car of the Year voting, coming out on top in the Family category with the ID. Buzz.

This modern interpretation of the classic camper van combines retro styling with thoroughly up-to-date mechanicals. It’s based on the Volkswagen Group MEB all-electric platform, and is part of its pure-electric ID range that now includes the ID 3, 4, and 5 — with the ID 7 saloon car coming soon.

Currently available as a short-wheelbase vehicle, equipped with an 77kWh (net) battery, the ID.Buzz has a single motor on the rear axle packing 204hp and is good for a range of up to 255 miles. It’s compatible with 170kW DC fast charging.

In keeping with what the original camper came to represent, the ID.Buzz majors on sustainability. That includes recycled materials, made from recovered ocean plastics and PET bottles, and a leather-free interior.

The Volkswagen ID Buzz topped the NGMW’s member polling, beating the Ford Tourneo Courier and Renault Austral to first place in the Family category, making it eligible for the overall Car of the Year Award.

Volkswagen was able to supply an example of the ID Buzz for the Car of the Year driving day, in range-topping “Style” specification, allowing the assembled panel of judges to evaluate it against the other five finalists.

Following the driving day, the 15 judges in attendance cast their secret ballots, although one judge commented:

Something very 21st century but echoing the past; that’s the pure electric, zero toxin-emitting Buzz. Magnificent visibility for the driver, particularly up front.

The results of the ballot will be revealed at the SMMT Test Day North event, with the winning manufacturer’s press team — if in attendance — receiving the all-important “Arthur” trophy.