This page provides a review the Rivian R1t and R1S through performance, driving experience and reliability.
2024 Rivian R1T
Performance
The 2024 Rivian R1T is an electric adventure truck that excels in both performance and off-road capability. It comes standard with a quad-motor setup, one for each wheel, delivering a combined output of 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of torque. This configuration allows the R1T to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3 seconds, rivaling many sports cars. The R1T offers different battery packs, including a 135 kWh pack providing an estimated range of 314 miles, and a larger 180 kWh pack boosting the range to approximately 400 miles. Its adaptive air suspension and adjustable ride height enhance off-road performance, making it capable of tackling various terrains with ease.
Driving Experience
The driving experience in the Rivian R1T is marked by a blend of ruggedness and luxury. The interior features high-quality materials, including vegan leather and natural wood accents, providing a premium feel. The cabin is equipped with a 16-inch central touchscreen for infotainment, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Rivian’s proprietary software runs the system, offering features like navigation, media, and vehicle settings, all of which are intuitive and user-friendly.
The R1T provides a smooth and controlled ride, thanks to its advanced suspension system and low center of gravity. The truck’s handling is precise, and the electric power steering offers excellent feedback. The regenerative braking system is strong and allows for one-pedal driving, enhancing efficiency and control, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, the R1T’s towing capacity of up to 11,000 pounds and various driving modes (including off-road and towing) make it a versatile vehicle for different needs.
Reliability
Rivian is a relatively new player in the automotive industry, but its vehicles are built with a focus on quality and durability. The R1T features robust construction and high-grade materials designed to withstand harsh conditions. As with any new brand, long-term reliability data is limited, but early reviews and owner feedback have been positive. Rivian offers a comprehensive warranty, covering the vehicle for 5 years or 60,000 miles, and the battery and drivetrain for 8 years or 175,000 miles, providing confidence to new owners.
Good:
Exceptional acceleration and powerful performance.
High-quality, luxurious interior with advanced technology.
Impressive off-road capability and adaptive air suspension.
Strong towing capacity and versatile driving modes.
Comprehensive warranty and robust construction.
Bad:
Higher price point compared to traditional trucks.
Limited long-term reliability data due to the brand’s newness.
Charging infrastructure for long trips may be a concern.
Infotainment system, while advanced, may require acclimation.
Heavy weight impacts efficiency and handling.
Overall Rating
The 2024 Rivian R1T is an outstanding electric truck that offers a compelling mix of performance, luxury, and off-road capability. While it comes with a higher price tag and some concerns about long-term reliability and charging infrastructure, the overall driving experience, build quality, and versatility make it a strong contender in the electric vehicle market. The R1T earns an overall rating of 9 out of 10, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance electric truck with advanced features and rugged capabilities.
2024 Rivian R1S
Performance
The 2024 Rivian R1S is an all-electric SUV that mirrors the impressive performance characteristics of its sibling, the R1T truck. The R1S comes standard with a quad-motor setup, providing a total output of 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of torque. This setup enables the R1S to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.0 seconds, offering sports car-level performance in an SUV body. The R1S offers different battery packs, including a 135 kWh pack that delivers an estimated range of 316 miles, and a larger 180 kWh pack extending the range to around 400 miles. The vehicle's adaptive air suspension and adjustable ride height ensure a smooth ride on both paved roads and rugged terrains, making it a versatile choice for various driving conditions.
Driving Experience
The driving experience in the Rivian R1S is characterized by a blend of luxury, comfort, and off-road capability. The interior is crafted with premium materials such as vegan leather and real wood accents, giving it a high-end feel. The cabin features a 16-inch central touchscreen for infotainment, paired with a 12.3-inch digital driver display. Rivian’s user-friendly software includes navigation, media, and vehicle settings, all accessible through the touchscreen interface.
The R1S provides a quiet and composed ride, with excellent insulation from road and wind noise. The adaptive air suspension enhances ride comfort and allows for adjustable ride height, improving off-road capability and ease of entry/exit. The steering is responsive, and the regenerative braking system supports one-pedal driving, making city driving more efficient and enjoyable. The R1S can tow up to 7,700 pounds, adding to its versatility as a family SUV or adventure vehicle. Additionally, multiple driving modes, including off-road and towing, cater to a variety of driving needs.
Reliability
Rivian, though a relatively new automaker, has focused on building durable and reliable vehicles. The R1S is constructed with high-quality materials and robust engineering designed to withstand tough conditions. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, initial reviews and customer feedback are positive. The R1S comes with a comprehensive warranty covering 5 years or 60,000 miles for the vehicle, and 8 years or 175,000 miles for the battery and drivetrain, providing assurance to new owners.
Good:
Exceptional acceleration and powerful performance.
Luxurious and high-quality interior with advanced technology.
Excellent off-road capability with adaptive air suspension.
Strong towing capacity and versatile driving modes.
Comprehensive warranty and solid construction.
Bad:
Higher price point compared to traditional SUVs.
Limited long-term reliability data due to the brand’s newness.
Charging infrastructure for long trips may still be a concern.
Infotainment system, while advanced, may require acclimation.
Heavy weight impacts efficiency and handling.
Overall Rating
The 2024 Rivian R1S stands out as an impressive electric SUV, offering a remarkable combination of performance, luxury, and off-road capability. Despite its higher price tag and some concerns about long-term reliability and charging infrastructure, the overall driving experience, build quality, and versatility make it a compelling choice in the electric vehicle market. The R1S earns an overall rating of 9 out of 10, making it an excellent option for those seeking a high-performance electric SUV with advanced features and rugged capabilities.