Is the 2024 Rivian R1S a Good Electric SUV? 6 Pros, 3 Cons
Stylish, spacious and quick, the R1S mid-size SUV is the second model to arrive from upstart electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian. Like its R1T pickup truck stablemate, the R1S is an impressive choice and builds on the qualities that impressed us so much with the R1T while still offering decent range between charges.
Related: 2023 Rivian R1S Review: Upstart’s Second Model Is Actually the Better One
Identical to the pickup from the second row forward, the R1S gets three rows of seating and added protected cargo room, yet it rides on a shorter wheelbase and is about 16 inches shorter overall. That makes it the more family-friendly choice, as it’s both roomier inside and easier to maneuver than the R1T; it’s also loaded with features yet competitively priced.
Cars.com Detroit Bureau Chief Aaron Bragman spent a week with a 2023 R1S with the Quad-Motor setup and the optional All-Terrain Upgrade Package, and he came away with mostly positive things to say. (A few additional trim options are available for 2024, but little else changes fundamentally.) Tap the link above for his expert review; for a quicker rundown, read on for six things we like about the Rivian R1S and three things we do not.
Things We Like
1. Tidy Package
Losing almost a foot and a half in overall length compared to its pickup truck stablemate gives the R1S better proportions overall, and it presents a modern and attractive look. Unlike some EV competitors, the Rivian’s styling is clean and modern without being different just for the sake of being different. The boxy design is also practical and includes a front storage area (aka frunk) that’s big enough to accommodate two carry-on suitcases.
2. Powerful Powertrains
All R1Ss provide more than adequate power that’s delivered through standard all-wheel drive. The base Dual-Motor AWD gets one motor for each axle, good for a total of 533 horsepower and a claimed 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 4.5 seconds. Stepping up to the Performance Dual-Motor setup ups that to 665 hp and shaves a second off the 0-60 time. The top Quad-Motor AWD variant like our test vehicle gets two motors per axle, delivers 835 hp and blasts from 0-60 in just 3.0 seconds.
3. Reasonable Range
Range varies depending on trim, tire size and battery pack, but any version of the R1S can travel decent distances between charges. For 2023, the base version with the Standard battery had a published range of 260 miles, which increased to 352 miles with the Large battery and 400 with the Max battery. The Performance Dual-Motor variant was only available with the Large and Max batteries and matches the base version’s ranges, while the Quad-Motor comes with only the Large battery and delivers 321 miles of range. R1Ss equipped with the off-road package carry a slight penalty in range.
4. Quick and Quiet
With 835 hp on tap, our R1S Quad-Motor test vehicle with the All-Terrain Upgrade Package delivered powerful and seamless acceleration, pushing occupants back in their seats in a rush of continuous and nearly silent thrust. The power adds to the luxury feel, making you feel like you’re driving something special.
5. Air Suspension
With its adjustable air suspension and smaller wheels thanks to the optional All-Terrain Upgrade, our R1S delivered a smooth and absorbent ride that was free of excessive body motions or jostling that might disturb passengers. The penalty for the added off-road performance is more tire noise and reduced range.
6. Usable Third Row
Inside, the first two rows are identical to the R1T pickup’s, which is to say they’re spacious, modern and comfortable. What the R1S adds is a roomy third row of seating that’s big enough for adults, along with a generous amount of cargo room when the third row is folded.
More From Cars.com:
- Rivian Improves R1S Crash Test Performance, Earns IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Honors
- Rivian Expands Leasing Program to R1S SUV
- Electric Cars With the Longest Range
- Which EVs Have All-Wheel Drive?
- Rivian Joins Ford, GM in Providing Access to Tesla Superchargers
Things We Like
1. More Comfortable Than Sporty
The R1S rides well, but its driving experience is not what most would consider sporty. Numb steering that lacks feedback doesn’t help, nor does the All-Terrain Upgrade Package with its chunky tires and their impact on road noise and handling response. If you’re after on-road comfort and performance, stick with the on-road tires and wheels; you’ll also get increased range.
2. Growing Pains
The interior is an airy and pleasant place to be, with a modern, upscale look and feel. But we noticed a few assembly shortcomings that this startup automaker is still dealing with, including questionable fits and poorly applied wood veneer.
3. Virtual Controls
Like many manufacturers, Rivian has gotten on the virtual controls bandwagon, forgoing physical knobs entirely in favor of screen-based controls. Everything down to vent controls is now handled through the large touchscreen, which at least is well laid out and easy to use. We do miss Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, neither of which are offered by Rivian.
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