2023 Rivian R1S review
Rivian R1S highlights
Customer rating
RepairPal reliability rating
(data not available)
Pros
- Excellent real-world range
- Off-road capable
- Plenty of passenger and cargo space
Cons
- Firm ride quality
- Slow infotainment and no phone integration
- Driver assists are prone to false alarms
Battery range (EPA estimate)
289 miles
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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The 2023 Rivian R1S is the pick for adventurous eco-warriors
Rivian is a relatively new electric vehicle brand that debuted its R1T pickup truck in 2022. Shortly thereafter, it introduced the R1S, a three-row SUV.
The Rivian R1S specs are impressive. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates models equipped with the Max battery pack will go up to 390 miles on a charge; the four-motor model gets up to 835 horsepower. 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 also wildly capable off-road, though that ability does negatively affect on-road comfort.
There are few electric three-row SUVs that compete with the R1S. Among them are two Teslas, but the Model Y’s third-row seats are comically small and the larger Model X’s seats don’t fold away for more cargo. The pricier Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV puts a greater emphasis on luxury. Altogether, the 2023 Rivian R1S is the pick for outdoor adventurers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
All Rivian R1S years
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Rivian R1S generation from 2022 to 2026
What is new for the 2023 Rivian R1S?
- The Explore trim has been discontinued for 2023.
- R1S trims have been upgraded with Power Seat(s), Memory Seat(s), Parking Sensors, Heated Steering Wheel, Skylight(s), and Meridian Audio as standard equipment this year.
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay features are now available as options on select trims.
2023 Rivian R1S trims
Curious how Rivian R1S trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesLaunch Edition:
- Rear Defroster
- Automated Cruise Control
- Third Row Seat
- Power Seats
- Memory Seats
- Front Seat Heaters
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Power Mirrors
- View our Rivian R1S Launch Edition inventory
Adventure:
- Includes all features available on the Launch Edition
- No significant upgrades found on the Adventure
Rivian R1S photos
What We Like
Solid real-world range: At the low end, the R1S is estimated by the EPA to offer 274 miles of range on a single charge.
That may not sound all that impressive, but it should easily suffice for most drivers. At its maximum, the R1S is estimated at an impressive 390 miles, which should be a great choice for those who often take long road trips. In Edmunds' real-world testing, the R1S was able to slightly exceed its EPA estimate.Off-road ready: With standard all-wheel drive and a height-adjustable air suspension, the Rivian R1S is already set up for light off-roading. Choose the quad-motor model that gives each wheel its own power, available all-terrain tires, and reinforced underbody skid plates, and you’ll have a very capable all-terrain SUV. The R1S has as much as 15 inches of ground clearance and can ford streams as deep as 3 feet.
Excellent passenger and cargo space: A lot of three-row SUVs skimp on third-row passenger space, intending them for smaller occupants and occasional use. Not the R1S. There’s enough space in the rearmost seats for adults and even taller passengers will be fine for short trips. Behind the seats, there is up to 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space (or roughly 22 grocery bags); there's also a large front trunk. With the third and second rows stowed, the storage capacity expands to 88.2 cubic feet.
What Needs Improvement
Truck-like ride quality: The Rivian R1S’ more rugged styling and off-road capabilities could hint at how comfortable its ride is. Capability on a variety of road surfaces sometimes requires a sacrifice in comfort. On pavement, the R1S feels more like a truck, with a slightly stiffer compliance over bumps in the road. Other luxury electric SUVs ride much smoother, but they can’t match the Rivian’s off-road skills.
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Ratings & reliability
Rivian R1S features and specs
Curious how Rivian R1S trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
Launch Edition Quad-Motor Large 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- 4WD/AWD
- A/C Seat(s)
- ABS Brakes
- Adjustable Suspension
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Mirrors
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leatherette Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Meridian Audio
- 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
- Third Row Seat
- Tow Hitch
- Traction Control
- Full Roof Rack
- Satellite Radio Ready
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"
Leg room
F 41.4"/M 36.6"/R 32.8"
Head room
F 41.1"/M 39.7"/R 38.6"
Front tires
LT275/65HR20
Rear tires
LT275/65HR20
Seating capacity
7
Max towing capacity
770/7700 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2023 Rivian R1S FAQ
The 2023 Rivian R1S is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- Launch Edition Quad-Motor Large: Battery range of 289 miles.
- Adventure Dual-Motor Large: Battery range of 321 miles.
The 2023 Rivian R1S has received an average 4.0 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2023 Rivian R1S, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2023 Rivian R1S Reviews.
The 2023 Rivian R1S has a maximum towing capacity of 7700 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2023 Rivian R1S:
- Adventure Dual-Motor Large
- Adventure Dual-Motor Max
- Adventure Dual-Motor Standard
- Adventure Performance Dual-Motor Large
- Adventure Performance Dual-Motor Max
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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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