Comparing the values ​​sought in an MPV and the specs of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz and Lexus LM500h

Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro LWB

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LEXUS LM500h “version L”

A luxury MPV that has evolved into its second generation

The ID. Buzz is the brand’s first electric MPV, developed based on Volkswagen’s proprietary fully electric architecture, the MEB (Modular Electric Drive Matrix). In Japan, it is available in both a normal wheelbase (NWB) and a long wheelbase (LWB) with a stretched wheelbase.

The first generation LM debuted in 2019 as Lexus’ top-of-the-line luxury MPV, with the second generation coming in 2023. While the first generation was an Asian market-exclusive model, the current model is now available in global markets, including Japan. Equipped with a hybrid powertrain based on a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo, the lineup includes the four-seater LM500h “EXECUTIVE” and the six-seater LM500h “version L”.

This time, we’ll compare the seven-seater ID. Buzz Pro LWB with the six-seater LM500h “version L”. In terms of body size, the LM500h, with its impressive exterior that showcases Lexus, is 160mm longer in overall length, while the ID. Buzz Pro LWB has a 240mm longer wheelbase. In terms of vehicle weight, the ID. Buzz, which has a large-capacity lithium-ion battery mounted in the floor, is 280kg heavier.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro LWB

Body size = Length 4965 x Width 1985 x Height 1925 mm

Wheelbase = 3240 mm

Vehicle weight = 2720 kg

Tire size = 235/50R20 (front), 255/45R20 (rear)

Lexus LM500h version L

Body size = Length 5125 x Width 1890 x Height 1955 mm

Wheelbase = 3000 mm

Vehicle weight = 2440 kg

Tire size = 225/55R19

Fine control with strong hybrid

The long-wheelbase version of the ID. Buzz is equipped with a rear-axle electric motor that produces a maximum output of 286 PS and a 91 kWh lithium-ion battery in the floor. Its cruising range is 554 km (WLTC mode), covering a wide range of driving conditions. The Lexus LM500h’s hybrid system is primarily a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine that produces 275 PS on its own, with electric motors on the front and rear axles providing additional power assistance depending on driving conditions.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro LWB

Engine type = 1 motor + 91kWh lithium-ion battery

Maximum output = 286PS / 3581-6500rpm

Maximum torque = 560Nm / 2100-5500rpm

Cruising range = 554km (WLTC mode)

Transmission = 1-speed fixed

Drive system = RWD

Lexus LM500h version L

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder turbo + hybrid

Displacement = 2393cc

Maximum output = 275PS/6000rpm

Maximum torque = 460Nm/2000-3000rpm

Front motor output = 87PS

Rear motor output = 103PS

Transmission = 6-speed AT

Drive system = AWD

The philosophy behind MPVs differs more than just price

The ID. Buzz Pro LWB, with its 3000mm wheelbase, offers ample space in both the second and third rows. The pop-looking cockpit is equipped with a 5.3-inch driver information display and a 12.9-inch touchscreen. The LM500h features a 12.3-inch TFT LCD meter with a color head-up display, and a horizontal 14-inch touchscreen.

The LM500h version L features extensive trim and an overhead console, emphasizing a personal feel despite being a six-seater. Compared to the simpler ID. Buzz, the luxurious interior space justifies the price difference of over 5 million yen. Additionally, if you choose the four-seater “LM500h “EXECUTIVE”, you’ll also be equipped with a “Rear Seat Entertainment System” including a huge 48-inch display.

The ID. Buzz, which pursues modernity and was one of the first to feature a fully electric powertrain, and the LM500h, which aims to create the ultimate in comfortable travel space, are starkly contrasting concepts. It’s not just price and usage environment that determine the owner’s desires for a car. It could be said that the choice will depend on their values.