After spending time with the Rivian R1S tri-motor variant, I’m struck by how this electric vehicle manages to feel both revolutionary and familiar at the same time. Unlike some EVs that scream “I’m from the future!” the R1S offers a more subtle approach to electric mobility while maintaining a strong brand identity.
What immediately stands out is the robust construction quality. This doesn’t feel like a vehicle from an automotive startup. The attention to detail and solid build quality suggest a company that’s been crafting vehicles for decades, not years. From the stitching to the use of open-pore wood and varied materials, the R1S exudes quality at every touchpoint.
Design That Speaks Volumes
The R1S has a boxy, upright design that feels purposeful rather than trendy. While driving it, I was reminded of a Jeep—it has that same rugged, adventure-ready presence. This isn’t an electric vehicle trying to hide its nature, but it’s not flaunting it either. The subtle yellow accents on the wheels, calipers, and even the tire rubber create a cohesive look that’s distinctly Rivian.
Even the sounds have been carefully considered. When locking the vehicle, you’re greeted with a bird chirp rather than a traditional beep—a small touch that aligns with the brand’s nature-focused ethos. It’s refreshing compared to my experience with the Cybertruck, where blending in is simply not an option.
Practical Features for Real Adventures
The R1S shines in its thoughtful features designed for outdoor enthusiasts:
- A removable Bluetooth speaker that doubles as a lantern
- Built-in air compressor with a hose that reaches all four tires
- Both AC and DC power outlets in the cargo area (perfect for efficient portable fridges)
- Auto-leveling feature for car camping on uneven terrain
- A generous frunk with a reversible floor (rubberized on one side, carpeted on the other)
The two-step rear gate design is particularly clever, offering both a lift gate and a fold-down tailgate that creates a perfect outdoor seating area. The cargo space transforms from modest (with third-row seats up) to cavernous when folded, with a flat load floor that makes sliding in large items effortless.
Technology That Serves a Purpose
The tech implementation in the R1S is beautiful but occasionally overwhelming. The UI takes over the entire screen when you select a function, which looks stunning but isn’t always practical when you want to view multiple pieces of information simultaneously.
Camera quality is among the best I’ve seen in any vehicle, and the Unreal Engine graphics for the off-road information display are genuinely impressive. The electronic roof that switches from clear to opaque adds another layer of versatility for outdoor adventures.
Where the R1S falls short is in its driver assistance features. The freeway assist self-driving capability isn’t nearly as sophisticated as Tesla’s Autopilot. This is one area where Rivian has significant room for improvement if they want to compete with more established EV makers.
Driving Experience: Traditional Yet Powerful
On the road, the R1S feels unmistakably like an SUV. There’s a slight bounciness to the ride even in “All-Around” mode, reminding you of its boxy nature. But when it comes to acceleration, the tri-motor’s 850 horsepower delivers that head-snapping EV thrust we’ve come to expect.
What’s interesting is how traditional the overall driving experience feels. For many potential EV buyers who are hesitant about making the switch, this familiarity might be exactly what they’re looking for—the benefits of electric power without feeling like they’re piloting a spaceship.
At around $175,000 for the fully-loaded version I tested, the R1S certainly isn’t cheap. But for its target market—outdoor enthusiasts who want luxury, capability, and electric power—it delivers a compelling package that few competitors can match.
Rivian clearly knows its customer. They’ve created a vehicle for people who will actually use those camp modes and outdoor speakers—or at least take pleasure in knowing they could if they wanted to. The R1S innovates where it matters while maintaining enough familiarity to appeal to traditional SUV buyers making the leap to electric.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the Rivian R1S compare to other electric SUVs in terms of range?
While this review focused on the driving experience and features, the Rivian R1S offers competitive range figures for its class. The tri-motor variant balances performance with efficiency, though the exact range varies based on driving conditions, temperature, and which wheels you choose (the more aerodynamic “dish” style wheels maximize range).
Q: Is the Rivian R1S suitable for families?
Absolutely. The three-row configuration offers seating for seven, with surprisingly good space even in the third row for average-sized adults. The boxy design maximizes interior room, and thoughtful touches like heated seats in all rows make it family-friendly. The massive cargo space with seats folded down is perfect for family adventures.
Q: What sets the Rivian R1S apart from other luxury electric SUVs?
The Rivian R1S distinguishes itself through its adventure-ready features and strong brand identity. Unlike competitors that feel like electrified versions of existing vehicles, the R1S was designed from the ground up as an electric adventure vehicle with unique touches like the removable speaker/lantern, built-in air compressor, and camping-oriented software features.
Q: How does the build quality compare to established luxury brands?
Despite being a relatively new manufacturer, Rivian has achieved impressive build quality that rivals established luxury brands. The attention to detail in stitching, material selection, and overall fit and finish suggests a company with decades of experience rather than a startup. The solid construction and thoughtful design elements create a premium experience throughout the vehicle.
Q: Is the Rivian R1S worth its premium price tag?
For the right buyer, yes. The fully-loaded tri-motor variant at around $175,000 is certainly expensive, but it delivers a unique combination of electric performance, off-road capability, luxury appointments, and innovative features that few other vehicles can match. More affordable configurations are available that still offer the core Rivian experience at a lower price point.
