Midway through its development, the 2027 5-Series is undergoing subtle design alterations, possibly adopting an interior similar to the iX3, while retaining its core engines and electrified versions. Recent spy images reveal that the grilles are now more akin to those of the current 5-Series sedan. Furthermore, the updated interior is likely to feature the iDrive Panoramic display. As part of BMW's Neue Klasse era, the 5-Series is being refreshed to reflect the modern aesthetics of recent concepts, including the all-electric iX3. However, it seems that BMW may be reconsidering certain aspects of the facelift. Earlier this year, several 5-Series prototypes were spotted testing with tight camouflage, showcasing new headlights and kidney grilles inspired by the Vision Neue Klasse concept, indicating a finalized design for the next-generation sedan. Yet, recent spy shots of the Touring variant, anticipated to debut in North America as the flagship M5, suggest that BMW has introduced some design modifications during the development phase. What’s Different? Although the latest Touring prototype remains camouflaged, the kidney grilles now resemble those of the current 5-Series more closely. They retain a sleeker and more sculpted appearance, but the bold influence of the Neue Klasse design seems to have been toned down. The headlights have also been subtly reshaped, appearing narrower and more seamlessly integrated into the front end. Additionally, the rear has undergone modifications, with the taillights now reflecting design themes from the newest 3-Series. While this is a minor change, it indicates that BMW is prioritizing continuity over a drastic redesign. What About The Cabin? Currently, no interior images have been released. However, if the iX3 serves as an indicator, the 5-Series is likely to feature BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive configuration, which includes a central infotainment screen and a wide, curved display stretching nearly the entire width of the dashboard, positioned just above the cowl. Both displays are expected to utilize the latest iteration of BMW’s iDrive software. The iX3’s four-spoke steering wheel is also anticipated to be included, although it has received mixed reviews. This design is likely to extend across the lineup, including the 5-Series. Familiar Powertrains with Small Gains BMW is not expected to implement extensive changes to the 5-Series powertrain lineup. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, will likely remain unchanged. The 3.0-liter turbo inline-six could see a slight increase in output, potentially reaching 393 hp and 428 lb-ft. In addition to the gasoline options, the updated lineup will include new diesel variants, a revised plug-in hybrid, and an upgraded all-electric i5, which may improve in efficiency and driving range.
The automaker seems ready to reintroduce it in 2027, although that may not occur either.
8 hours ago
by Stephen Rivers
Volkswagen has confirmed that there will be no ID. Buzz for the U.S. market in 2026.
Dealers reportedly informed customers that production of the EV has ended.
The high cost casts a shadow on the minivan's future in the U.S. market.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, which has long been seen as a potential revival of the brand's legacy, will not be produced in 2026. This is the official statement from the automaker after some dealers allegedly informed customers about it. The main question now is whether it will indeed return, and if so, whether it will still resemble its original form.
More: VW Offers $10K Off ID.Buzz, Dealers Say Hold My Beer
A spokesman for Volkswagen confirmed the situation to Carscoops, saying, “After a thorough evaluation of current EV market conditions, we have strategically decided not to proceed with MY26 ID. Buzz production for the U.S. market.”
How did we arrive at this point? Initially, dealers reportedly started sharing the discontinuation news with customers.
Are Dealers Jumping the Gun?
In a Reddit discussion, one customer mentioned that a dealer informed them: “I wanted to share an important update about the Volkswagen ID. Buzz. We’ve been told that it’s being discontinued, with no 2026 models on the way. What we have in stock will be the final availability.”
Review: VW ID. Buzz Is The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch
This could simply be another dealer attempting to secure a sale. There have been numerous such instances with the Buzz and other high-profile vehicles. To clarify the situation, Carscoops reached out to VW. The company refuted the notion that the ID. Buzz was being completely discontinued.
“That is not correct,” the spokesperson stated. “We communicated to dealers that the ID. Buzz remains an important flagship product for the Volkswagen brand, and maintaining its market presence is a priority.”
Additionally, it appears that VW is strategically planning for a “transition” to the 2027 version.
“This strategy enables us to allocate resources more effectively towards current inventory and support retail performance throughout MY25, ensuring a solid basis as we prepare for the MY27 transition next year,” the spokesperson explained.
We requested more details on what the “MY27 transition” entails for the ID. Buzz specifically, but VW did not provide further information.
Nonetheless, this suggests that a return for the 2027 model year is anticipated, or at least, that is the current plan.
Reading Between the Lines
It’s well-known that electric vehicles have faced difficulties this year, regardless of pricing or segment. Various factors such as regulations, tax credits, tariffs, and more have contributed to this situation. When you consider the pricing VW placed on the ID. Buzz after teasing the vehicle for two decades, it is understandable why the company might have made this decision.
In VW’s case, pricing has been a persistent issue. The original VW Bus became a cultural icon not only due to its design and adaptability but also because it was affordable, straightforward, and accessible. The modern ID. Buzz failed to meet these expectations, arriving in the U.S. at a price point that exceeded what many nostalgic buyers were prepared to spend.
At this moment, the ID. Buzz is not officially canceled in America. However, with no 2026 model planned, production reportedly halted, and dealers indicating that only existing stock is available, its future appears uncertain. If it does come back for 2027, VW may need to find a way to significantly reduce its selling price or enhance its overall appeal.
Other articles
Midway through its development, the 2027 5-Series is undergoing subtle design alterations, possibly adopting an interior similar to the iX3, while retaining its core engines and electrified versions. Recent spy images reveal that the grilles are now more akin to those of the current 5-Series sedan. Furthermore, the updated interior is likely to feature the iDrive Panoramic display. As part of BMW's Neue Klasse era, the 5-Series is being refreshed to reflect the modern aesthetics of recent concepts, including the all-electric iX3. However, it seems that BMW may be reconsidering certain aspects of the facelift. Earlier this year, several 5-Series prototypes were spotted testing with tight camouflage, showcasing new headlights and kidney grilles inspired by the Vision Neue Klasse concept, indicating a finalized design for the next-generation sedan. Yet, recent spy shots of the Touring variant, anticipated to debut in North America as the flagship M5, suggest that BMW has introduced some design modifications during the development phase. What’s Different? Although the latest Touring prototype remains camouflaged, the kidney grilles now resemble those of the current 5-Series more closely. They retain a sleeker and more sculpted appearance, but the bold influence of the Neue Klasse design seems to have been toned down. The headlights have also been subtly reshaped, appearing narrower and more seamlessly integrated into the front end. Additionally, the rear has undergone modifications, with the taillights now reflecting design themes from the newest 3-Series. While this is a minor change, it indicates that BMW is prioritizing continuity over a drastic redesign. What About The Cabin? Currently, no interior images have been released. However, if the iX3 serves as an indicator, the 5-Series is likely to feature BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive configuration, which includes a central infotainment screen and a wide, curved display stretching nearly the entire width of the dashboard, positioned just above the cowl. Both displays are expected to utilize the latest iteration of BMW’s iDrive software. The iX3’s four-spoke steering wheel is also anticipated to be included, although it has received mixed reviews. This design is likely to extend across the lineup, including the 5-Series. Familiar Powertrains with Small Gains BMW is not expected to implement extensive changes to the 5-Series powertrain lineup. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, will likely remain unchanged. The 3.0-liter turbo inline-six could see a slight increase in output, potentially reaching 393 hp and 428 lb-ft. In addition to the gasoline options, the updated lineup will include new diesel variants, a revised plug-in hybrid, and an upgraded all-electric i5, which may improve in efficiency and driving range.
The car manufacturer seems ready to reintroduce it for 2027, but that may not take place either.
