To Buzz or not to Buzz

  • Thread starter vwcaliforniacornwall
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vwcaliforniacornwall

vwcaliforniacornwall

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44
Location
Cornwall UK
Vehicle
T6 Ocean 199
So, my late 2019 California 204 bhp with just 30,000 miles clocked has a blocked valve in the bi-turbo. My mechanic says it's cheaper overall and makes better sense to replace it with a warrantied product than attempt refurbishment or repairs. Much to my surprise, the vehicle, which was purchased from a VW main dealer 4 years ago has apparently been "chipped" which I knew nothing about. So once the turbo has been replaced I am thinking of replacing the van too.
I really like the look of the ID Buzz and am drawn towards a standard WB GTX for the 4WD. Because I mainly use the van to sleep in at music festivals and a bit of UK touring I tend not to use the cooker at all (I use a single burner gas stove outside so I don't smell up the interior). I also prefer to sleep on the bed downstairs and raise the top just for headspace. I do use the sink a bit for washing up teacups and the like. All that I will really miss is the wardrobe and storage space and convenience of the water tank and waste tank.
What I would like to know is if anyone else has been using a BUZZ as a camper and what their experience has been like - is it ok or a bit of a disaster. Apart from major projects based on a cargo van, are there "temporary" storage and facility solutions that people here have tried and tested?
There are always rumours of a Buzz style camper coming air some time but I usually find that the options are often restricted - like I want 4WD ...
Any feedback much appreciated.
 
I dismissed the Buzz as a replacement Cali primarily because you just can't create the same amount of space for day /evening chilling.

People do camp in them though and report their experiences in various FB groups. Ignoring full camper conversions, a popular option seems to be the installation of one of those boot slide out things which I personally don't like.

If the space doesn't bother you; you're not put off by the high purchase price /depreciation /VED and can ignore reliability issues reported on FB, it could work for you.
 
Take a look at the below 'Buzz Killers'. WV dropped the ball by not allowing utility or camp modes, and not even tapping into the battery for Vehicle-to-Load 230V socket. That's before we even mention the 7 year warranty the Kia gives... The second video will be my next camper van.


 
,,,oh, and the base vehicle is only about £25k cheaper than the Buzz !
 
A version of the Buzz with V2L is supposedly being launched this year.
 
A version of the Buzz with V2L is supposedly being launched this year.
Hi, that's very interesting! Any further details or links to source? I understood that they weren't making any more?
 
''This 2026 update also provides the Buzz with a vehicle-to-load function, meaning you can use its high voltage battery to supply 2.0kW of power to external electric devices. Think charging e-bikes or running an electric grill out in the wilderness. Mmm, sausages.''

Finally! A shame it's only 2kWh as opposed to the 3600w in the Kias and Hyundais, but a step in the right direction for sure. No leisure batteries or solar required! Good insight - thanks Rob
 
Thanks everyone - I did not know about the 2026 update but the V2L option would make running a fridge much easier for sure. I think I will keep the California for now and check out the 2026 Buzz when it arrives.
 
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