The electric vehicle revolution has finally reached the family segment, and two standout contenders are battling for supremacy in the three-row EV market. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Volkswagen ID.Buzz represent vastly different approaches to electric family transportation, with the Korean SUV offering futuristic efficiency and the German van providing retro-inspired practicality. After rigorous testing, we dive deep into which electric family hauler deserves your hard-earned money.
Performance That Speaks Volumes
Acceleration and Power Delivery
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 emerges as the clear performance winner, sprinting from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and completing the quarter-mile in 13.1 seconds at 104 mph. This impressive acceleration comes courtesy of its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 422 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.
In contrast, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz takes a more leisurely approach, reaching 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and running the quarter-mile in 14.2 seconds at 97 mph. While still respectable for a family vehicle, the ID.Buzz’s 335 horsepower output clearly positions it as the more relaxed option.
Real-World Driving Dynamics
Both vehicles weigh over 6,000 pounds, with the ID.Buzz tipping the scales at 6,174 pounds and the Ioniq 9 at 6,034 pounds. Despite this substantial mass, both EVs deliver surprisingly nimble handling characteristics, though the Ioniq 9’s lower center of gravity provides a more SUV-like driving experience.
The ID.Buzz offers a uniquely elevated driving position that’s more akin to a commercial van than a traditional family vehicle. This high seating position and expansive front windows create an entirely distinctive feel unlike any other modern vehicle, which will either charm or alienate potential buyers.
Range and Charging: The Real-World Test
Highway Range Performance
Range anxiety remains a primary concern for EV buyers, and real-world highway testing reveals significant differences between these competitors. The Ioniq 9 demonstrated superior efficiency, though specific highway range figures weren’t disclosed in the comparison. However, related testing shows the ID.Buzz managed 190 miles in 75-mph highway conditions, falling short of its EPA-estimated 231-mile range.
The Ioniq 9 promises over 311 miles of range across all trim levels thanks to its massive 110.3-kWh battery pack, significantly outpacing the ID.Buzz’s 86.0-kWh unit. This substantial battery advantage translates to fewer charging stops during long-distance family trips.
Charging Speed and Infrastructure
The Ioniq 9 can accept 237 kilowatts of charging power, allowing it to replenish from 10-80% in just 24 minutes on a 350-kW DC fast charger. This exceptional charging speed stems from Hyundai’s advanced 800-volt architecture, though Tesla Superchargers will max out at 126 kW due to voltage differences.
The ID.Buzz supports up to 200 kW DC fast charging, which is respectable but not class-leading. The smaller battery does mean shorter absolute charging times, but frequent stops may prove inconvenient for family road trips.
Interior Space and Practicality
Seating Configurations and Comfort
The Ioniq 9 offers passenger volumes of 58/61/37 ft³ (front/middle/rear), while the ID.Buzz provides 54/60/49 ft³. The ID.Buzz’s more generous third-row space makes it genuinely usable for adults, whereas the Ioniq 9’s rearmost seats feel more suited to children.
Both vehicles offer premium features that justify their luxury pricing. The Ioniq 9’s fully loaded Calligraphy Design trim includes power-operated second-row seats, multicolor ambient lighting, head-up display, and Bose premium audio. The ID.Buzz Pro S Plus matches with its own premium appointments, though some interior materials feel less refined than expected at this price point.
Cargo Capacity and Versatility
The Ioniq 9 provides 87/47/22 ft³ of cargo space (behind front/middle/rear seats), while the ID.Buzz offers 146/76/19 ft³. The ID.Buzz’s van-like proportions translate to superior cargo-hauling capability, making it ideal for families who prioritize utility over SUV aesthetics.
The ID.Buzz’s unique removable third-row sections unlock massive cargo potential, though each section weighs around 60 pounds and requires removing the cargo area shelf for maximum space. The Ioniq 9 offers more conventional cargo management that’s easier to live with daily.
Technology and User Experience
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Ioniq 9 features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, route planning functions, and newly integrated Amazon Music and SoundCloud. The central touchscreen delivers quick, responsive performance with an elegantly curved design that favors the driver.
Both vehicles include comprehensive driver assistance systems and over-the-air update capabilities. The Ioniq 9 will offer Plug & Charge capability at Tesla, Ionna, and ChargePoint stations, streamlining the charging experience for busy families.
Build Quality and Refinement
Hyundai prioritized quietness in the Ioniq 9, incorporating acoustic laminated glass in first- and second-row windows, active noise cancellation, and noise-deadening foam tire inserts. The result is a respectable 66-decibel interior noise level at 70 mph, creating a serene cabin environment.
Pricing and Value Proposition
MSRP and Equipment Levels
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 starts at $60,555, while the similarly equipped Volkswagen ID.Buzz begins at $61,545. However, the tested Ioniq 9 Performance Calligraphy Design carried a $79,570 price, while the ID.Buzz Pro S Plus cost $72,035.
The Ioniq 9 competes against premium offerings like the $95,000 Lucid Gravity and $80,000 Rivian R1S while undercutting both significantly. This positioning makes it an attractive option for families seeking luxury EV features without ultra-premium pricing.
Long-Term Ownership Costs
The mechanically similar Kia EV9 costs between $850-$950 annually to charge according to EPA estimates, compared to $2,200-$3,600 for comparable gas-powered SUVs. The Ioniq 9’s superior efficiency should deliver similar savings.
Hyundai includes your choice of a free home charger or $400 in public charging credits, adding immediate value for new EV buyers. Reduced maintenance requirements further enhance the long-term value proposition.
Safety and Reliability
Build Quality and Durability
Hyundai covers the Ioniq 5 with a five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, and similar coverage is expected for the Ioniq 9. The Ioniq 5 earned a J.D. Power reliability score of 70 out of 100, compared to the ID.4’s score of just 54.
This reliability advantage, combined with Hyundai’s proven E-GMP platform, suggests the Ioniq 9 will age more gracefully than its German competitor.
Logic vs. Emotion
Performance and Efficiency Champion
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 takes the win thanks to its superior performance, intuitive user interface, and overall competence. Its combination of impressive acceleration, excellent range, and fast charging makes it the more practical choice for most families.
The ID.Buzz represents the emotional play, with tons of charisma, but its feature content and range performance don’t measure up. While undeniably charming and uniquely practical for cargo hauling, it falls short in the areas that matter most to daily EV ownership.
Final Recommendation
For families prioritizing efficiency, technology, and long-term value, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 emerges as the clear winner. Its superior range, faster charging, and lower total cost of ownership make it the smarter choice despite its higher initial price.
The Volkswagen ID.Buzz appeals to buyers seeking maximum interior space and distinctive styling, but its limited range and slower charging speeds may prove frustrating for long-distance family travel. Choose the ID.Buzz for its unique character and cargo versatility, but understand the practical compromises involved.
The three-row SUV space is in dire need of more accessible electric options for families looking to lower their gas bills and try out the latest technology. The Ioniq 9 delivers exactly that – a compelling package that minimizes the compromises traditionally associated with electric family vehicles.