2023 Rivian R1S — Electrified futuristic SUV



By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(August 24, 2022) PHOENIX — There’s a very strong likelihood you’re unfamiliar with the new electric vehicle startup Rivian — the first to bring an EV pickup to the market. You’re even less likely to have seen one on the road let alone it’s new second vehicle, the three-row R1S SUV tested here.


The Rivian R1S is basically the R1T Rivian pickup truck with an enclosed rear area with a third-row seat. Both vehicles come off the same assembly line in Normal, Illinois. R1S is a first-class family-friendly SUV with incredible off-road capability that’s targeting affluent families who love National Park-like outdoors — camping, trips to the beach, hiking, kayaking — you name it.

Although it weighs over 7,000 pounds it has a stupefying total combined 835 horsepower and 908 lb. ft of torque. It takes just 3 seconds to reach 60 mph and clip the standing ¼ mile in 11.8 seconds along with a 316-mile driving range on a single charge. It’s all-wheel drive and can tow more than 7,700 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,800 pounds.

We drove the R1S Adventure trim and found the ride quality on the firm side but handling confident, and acceleration lightening quick. Enough to push you back into your seat. While we were unable to test it off-road Rivian says the standard air suspension system can be raised up to
15.0 inches of ground clearance and able to ford water up to 39 inches deep and handle the most rugged of trails.



Beneath its full glass roof, the Rivian interior is minimalist in style yet elegant with first rate materials and build quality. Interior color choices are unique and something you’ll not see in any other luxury vehicle. There’re few actual knobs giving way to a large digital screen that serves as an instrument and operational panel.

Rivian vehicles are sold online and there’s a growing network of service centers available along with over-the-air software updates. But there’s a flood of customers with reservations so be prepared to wait awhile.

Vital Stats

2023 Rivian R1S
Base Price: $91,075
Price as Tested: N/A
Engine: Quad electric permanent magnet synchronous AC.
Horsepower: 836
Fuel Economy:  69/73/63 EPAe City/Highway/Combined
Seating: 7

Fab Features:
Stupefying power
Luxurious, fashionable interior
Amazing off-road capability