Volkswagen ID. Buzz GTX Gets Camo-less Nurburgring Shakedown

The sportier Volkswagen ID. Buzz GTX variant has been spotted doing hot laps around the Nurburgring without any camouflage. What's more interesting is that the prototype caught on camera is the long wheelbase version, which is the only available configuration for the US. Despite this, though, we don't think America will get this hot GTX variant - we'll explain why in a moment.

The absence of camouflage on the prototype tells that VW is not playing coy with the ID. Buzz GTX's market launch; it's coming and it's coming soon. This is expected since the German carmaker has already confirmed the sportier ID. Buzz GTX will be introduced in 2024, as was confirmed during the global LWB launch.

The prototype version spotted in Nurburgring still has the familiar ID. Buzz shape, but it features a different-looking front end that's highlighted by a new bumper design. The mesh slats on the prototype come with a subtler finish, creating a more seamless front fascia. It also has a black trim that extends on both ends, giving the illusion that the vehicle is smirking, along with matching dimples.

Turning to the side, the prototype ID. Buzz GTX comes with a different set of two-tone wheels. They still have five spokes but look bolder than the set currently fitted on the US-spec ID. Buzz. It's also not as flashy as the twisted double-spoke wheels that were conceptualized for the ID. Buzz by Irmscher.

The rear looks the same as the US-spec Volkswagen ID. Buzz. It has no design changes wherein the slim taillights are still present, along with the large tailgate and the simple-looking bumper.

The ID. Buzz GTX will have two electric motors generating 335 horsepower, as previously revealed by Volkswagen R&D boss Kai Gruenitz. The dual-motor configuration will also avail all-wheel drive and a quick 0 to 60 time of 6.4 seconds.

But why isn't America getting the ID. Buzz GTX? Because we don't get GTX models by name and appearance. However, we do still get them, sort of. The US ID. Buzz AWD was already confirmed to have 330 hp - which is about 335 metric horsepower in Europe - so we'll have the same powertrain minus the new face.

This same philosophy was applied to the US-spec dual-motor ID.4, which matches the performance of the European ID.4 GTX. We were previously told by VW North America representatives that GTX is more of an appearance package than a performance trim.

Effectively, then, the vehicle you see here is just the European design of the ID. Buzz we'll be getting all along.