– Volkswagen ID. Buzz offers an all-electric range of up to 377 km with advanced tech features.
– Toyota Sienna delivers hybrid efficiency, up to 245 horsepower, and offers AWD for enhanced traction.
– Both vehicles provide modern safety and tech features, but incentives differ based on powertrain type.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is finally here, and we’ve driven it. The 2025 Toyota Sienna is also available; we’ve driven it many times. You might be shopping for your next family vehicle and have realized that nothing beats a minivan when it comes to hauling people and gear. These vehicles cater to families seeking spaciousness, technology, and versatility. The buzz surrounding the Buzz is likely responsible for your interest in the segment.
2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz First Drive Review: Road Tripping with a Smile
While the VW represents the resurgence of an iconic van that is now fully electric, the other powers forward with a proven and efficient hybrid powertrain. Before you head out and kick some tires, we put together this factual comparison to help you get started:
Pricing and Incentives
– Volkswagen ID. Buzz:
The ID. Buzz costs $77,495 for the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version, while the all-wheel-drive (AWD) 4MOTION model costs $82,995. These prices exclude additional options like the electrochromic panoramic roof ($2,000) or two-tone exterior ($1,500). Given the steep pricing structure, the ID. Buzz is not eligible for any federal or existing provincial incentives.
2025 Toyota Sienna Platinum | Photo: Toyota– Toyota Sienna:
The 2025 Sienna starts at a more affordable base price of $47,650 for the LE FWD version, with the top-end Platinum grade reaching $70,228. The popular XLE FWD trim is priced at $50,240, while the XSE AWD goes for $54,625. As a hybrid vehicle, the Sienna does not qualify for most Canadian EV incentives but remains more cost-effective initially than the ID. Buzz.
Range and Power
– Volkswagen ID. Buzz:
The ID Buzz’s RWD version is powered by a 91-kWh battery. It offers an all-electric range of 377 km, while the AWD model offers 373 km. The RWD generates 282 horsepower, and the AWD boosts it to 335.
– Toyota Sienna:
The Sienna has a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid engine that produces 245 total system horsepower. The Sienna is available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. However, as a hybrid, it does not have an electric-only range. The estimated combined fuel consumption is 6.6 L/100 km for the FWD model and 6.7 L/100 km for AWD.
Technology
– Volkswagen ID. Buzz:
The ID. Buzz incorporates plenty of technology, featuring a 12.9-inch infotainment system, a 5.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and 30-colour ambient lighting. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 700-watt Harman/Kardon sound system with 14 speakers come standard. IQ.DRIVE driver-assistance technology includes lane change assistance, Travel Assist, and Park Assist Plus with memory parking. Additional options include a head-up display and Area View cameras.
2025 Toyota Sienna Platinum | Photo: Toyota– Toyota Sienna:
Toyota’s latest multimedia system comes standard across all Sienna grades, with an 8-inch touchscreen in lower trims and a 12.3-inch screen on XSE, Limited, and Platinum trims. The Sienna also offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and higher trims come with a JBL Premium Audio system with 12 speakers. Driver-assistance features include Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane tracing assist. The new radar-based Advanced Rear Seat Reminder debuts in the Sienna, enhancing safety with alerts to avoid leaving occupants in the vehicle.
General Features
– Volkswagen ID. Buzz:
The ID. Buzz has seating for up to 7 passengers, and the interior is customizable with three distinct colour schemes. Its seats come with multiple comfort features, including massage and ventilation for the front row and heated seats for the second row. Dual motor 4MOTION models include centre-row Captain’s chairs and seating for six. The Buzz offers 527L of cargo volume behind the third row and 2,137L behind the second row.
– Toyota Sienna:
The 2025 Toyota Sienna offers several new features. The new Platinum grade includes a Fridge Box and Vacuum integrated into the center console. The Sienna’s seating configuration varies depending on the trim, with the sportier XSE offering SofTex sport-trimmed seats for 7 passengers. Lower trims, like the LE, seat 8 passengers with fabric-trimmed seats. The Sienna provides 949L of cargo volume behind the third row and 2,129L behind the second row.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and Toyota Sienna are both appealing options for families, but the safe bet remains the Sienna, which delivers reliable hybrid performance. The ID. Buzz is ultra-cool; however, range and price are important limiting factors.
The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid and the Chrysler Pacifica PHEV are available for those seeking alternative options, but neither offers all-wheel drive.
