2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz vs 2024 Kia EV9: Cold-Weather Efficiency Showdown

Electric vehicles face unique challenges in cold weather, particularly when serving as family haulers for winter road trips. In this comprehensive comparison, we put the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz and 2024 Kia EV9 through rigorous cold-weather testing to determine which electric people-mover performs better when temperatures plummet.

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The Contenders: ID. Buzz vs EV9

Both the Volkswagen ID. Buzz and Kia EV9 represent the cutting edge of electric family vehicles, but with distinct approaches:

• Volkswagen ID. Buzz: A modern reimagining of the classic Microbus with retro-futuristic styling and flexible seating for up to seven passengers.
• Kia EV9: A bold, angular three-row SUV designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle with premium technology features.

EPA Efficiency Ratings

Cold-Weather Testing Methodology

To simulate real-world winter driving conditions, we designed our test to evaluate:

• Actual range compared to EPA estimates in freezing temperatures
• Battery performance and thermal management systems
• DC fast-charging behavior in cold weather
• Cabin heating efficiency and its impact on range
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Test Parameters

Our evaluation followed strict protocols to ensure accurate, comparable results:

• Temperature: 17°F (-8°C) at test start
• Route: 100-mile mixed driving (highway and urban)
• Climate Control: Auto mode set to 72°F (22°C)
• Charging: Preconditioned batteries before DC fast charging to 80%
• Driver Rotation: Switched vehicles at midpoint to account for driving style variations

Cold-Weather Range Performance

The frigid temperatures significantly impacted both vehicles' range estimates before we even began driving:

Real-World Range Implications

The test revealed significant differences in cold-weather performance:

• Kia EV9: Maintained 83% of its estimated range in freezing conditions
• VW ID. Buzz: Only achieved 74% of its estimated range
• Efficiency Gap: The EV9's 2.1 mi/kWh outperformed the ID. Buzz's 1.8 mi/kWh
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DC Fast-Charging Performance

Cold weather affects not just driving range but also charging speeds. Our charging session at an Electrify America 350kW station revealed:

Charging Behavior Observations

Both vehicles demonstrated proper battery preconditioning, but notable differences emerged:

• The EV9 maintained more consistent charging speeds throughout the session
• The ID. Buzz showed slightly slower charging curves, particularly above 50% state of charge
• Both vehicles experienced the typical charging speed reduction past 80% that's common with DC fast charging

Winter Road Trip Practicality

For families considering these electric vehicles for winter travel, our test suggests:

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Vehicle-Specific Winter Advantages

Kia EV9 Winter Strengths

• More efficient battery thermal management system
• Longer actual range between charges
• Slightly faster charging times
• Available heat pump (on certain trims) for more efficient cabin heating

Volkswagen ID. Buzz Winter Benefits

• More consistent regenerative braking performance in cold weather
• Faster cabin warm-up times
• Superior traction in snowy conditions (with proper winter tires)
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Expert Recommendation

Based on our cold-weather testing, the Kia EV9 emerges as the better choice for winter family travel:

• Range Advantage: The EV9's superior efficiency translates to fewer charging stops
• Charging Speed: Marginally faster charging helps reduce total trip time
• Predictability: More accurate range estimates in cold conditions reduce anxiety

That said, the ID. Buzz remains a compelling option for buyers prioritizing:

• Unique styling and nostalgic appeal
• More flexible interior configurations
• Potentially better snow performance (with proper tires)

Maximizing Your EV's Winter Performance

Regardless of which electric vehicle you choose, these tips can help optimize cold-weather performance:

• Preconditioning: Always warm the battery while plugged in before departure
• Efficient Heating: Use seat and steering wheel heaters instead of cabin heat when possible
• Tire Selection: Invest in quality winter tires for better range and traction
• Route Planning: Identify charging stations with amenities to make stops more comfortable
• Charge Management: Target 20-80% state of charge for fastest charging speeds
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The Future of Winter EV Performance

As battery technology advances, we expect significant improvements in cold-weather EV performance:

• New battery chemistries with better low-temperature tolerance
• More sophisticated thermal management systems
• Faster charging standards that maintain speed in cold conditions
• Improved heat pump technology for more efficient cabin heating

Both the ID. Buzz and EV9 represent significant steps forward in electric family vehicles, but our testing shows there's still room for improvement when temperatures drop.

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