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2022 Rivian R1S review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Rivian R1S highlights

Customer rating

(not yet rated)

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

  • Impressive and achievable range estimates
  • Good all-terrain abilities
  • Spacious for both passengers and cargo

Cons

  • Ride quality is on the stiff side
  • Sluggish operating system
  • Driver assists can be prone to false alarms

Battery range (EPA estimate)

316 miles

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

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The 2022 Rivian R1S blazes new trails with zero emissions

If you have a growing family and have considered making the switch to an all-electric vehicle, your choices have been very limited. Rivian, a new carmaker, has arrived to fill that void and it has the potential to make a big impression. The 2022 Rivan R1S is an all-new three-row, all-electric SUV with an impressive stat sheet. It has one electric motor for each wheel, combining to produce an otherworldly 835 horsepower. Its 135-kWh battery pack gives it enough juice to travel up to an EPA-estimated 316 miles on a single charge. Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

The R1S is wickedly quick to accelerate, but unlike its few competitors, it provides ample space in all three rows of seats. Add in some impressive off-road abilities and the R1S’ appeal only grows. Possible alternatives include the more expensive and more luxurious Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV as well as the Tesla Model X, with its cool-looking yet finicky falcon-wing doors. Tesla also makes a three-row Model Y, but its back seats are too small even for kids.

All Rivian R1S years

2022 Rivian R1S trims

Curious how Rivian R1S trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Launch Edition:

Explore:

  • Includes all features available on the Launch Edition
  • No significant upgrades found on the Explore

Adventure:

  • Includes all features available on the Explore
  • No significant upgrades found on the Adventure

5 reasons to buy the 2022 Rivian R1S

What We Like

Long and achievable range: In its inaugural year, the Rivian R1S was initially sold in its top quad-motor form, with the larger 135-kWh battery pack. The EPA estimated its range at 316 miles

and, based on Edmunds' real-world testing, it was easy to exceed that figure.

All-terrain capability: The R1S SUV is a very capable off-road vehicle. It benefits from a height-adjustable air suspension that can provide as much as 15 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive. For more serious terrain, we suggest keeping an eye out for models equipped with all-terrain tires and stronger underbody skid plates.

Spacious passenger and cargo space: Unlike many three-row SUVs, the Rivian R1S offers enough space for adults in every seat. Even 6-footers should be fine in the rearmost row for shorter excursions, and getting to those seats is made easier with wide door openings and a lower access height. Behind those seats, it can accommodate up to 17.6 cubic feet of cargo (or roughly 22 grocery bags). With rear seats folded down, it can haul up to 88.2 cubic feet.

What Needs Improvement

Firm ride quality: An unfortunate side effect of the Rivian R1S’ impressive off-road capabilities is its on-road ride comfort. It doesn’t ride as smoothly as the luxurious Mercedes-Benz EQS or even the rather firm Tesla Model X. If you actually plan to take advantage of the R1S’ all-terrain abilities, though, the compromise in comfort should be acceptable.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

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Rivian R1S features and specs

Explore 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • 4WD/AWD
  • ABS Brakes
  • Adjustable Suspension
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Rear View Camera
  • Side Airbags
  • Skylight(s)
  • Smart Key
  • Tow Hitch
  • Traction Control
  • Fold-Away Third Row
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Running Boards
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Third Row Seat

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

0.0L

Engine type

Electric

Wheelbase

121.1"

Overall length

200.8"

Width

81.8"

Height

77.3"

Front tires

LTR21

Rear tires

LTR21

Seating capacity

7

Max towing capacity

770/7700 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2022 Rivian R1S FAQ

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* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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