- Awesome acceleration and handling
- Premium materials in all three rows
- Statement-making design
- Brake pedal's excessive travel
- Frustrating overreliance on touchscreen
- Compelling three-row EV rivals
2025 Rivian R1S – Overview
The Rivian R1S is the three-row SUV counterpart to the R1T pickup, sharing many of its strengths: strong acceleration, impressive electric range, capable off-road performance, a refined interior, and bold exterior styling. For 2025, Rivian has rolled out a significant update—so substantial that the company refers to this version as a “second-generation” model, though it feels more like an evolved R1S.2.
Key enhancements include revised suspension tuning aimed at smoothing out the previously sometimes unpredictable ride quality, and the introduction of a new 850-horsepower Tri-Motor powertrain slotting between the existing Two-Motor and the powerful 1,050-horsepower Quad-Motor options. The standard air suspension provides up to 15 inches of ground clearance, making off-road excursions easier and more confident.
Range is impressive as well, with the longest-range model offering up to 410 miles per charge, reducing the need for frequent stops. Fundamentally, the R1S remains focused on comfortably accommodating up to seven passengers and their gear in a premium, upscale cabin—a role it has successfully filled since its 2022 launch.
However, the competitive landscape has shifted. The R1S now faces growing competition from newer, more affordable three-row electric SUVs like the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9, along with similarly priced rivals such as the Volvo EX90.
When Is The 2025 Rivian R1S Coming Out?
The 2025 model year Rivian R1S is expected to hit dealerships in late 2024, with deliveries ramping up early 2025. Rivian has steadily increased production since launch, and demand remains strong for this electric SUV.
What’s New for 2025 Rivian R1S?
For 2025, Rivian has introduced several notable upgrades to the R1S that enhance performance, efficiency, and technology. A brand-new electrical architecture reduces wiring weight by over 44 pounds, improving overall vehicle efficiency and packaging.
The Standard battery now uses a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistry, while the Large and Max battery versions receive updated range figures thanks to refined battery management. Rivian’s newly designed and manufactured electric motors power the Tri-Motor and Quad-Motor variants, building on the Dual-Motor setup that already featured in-house motors.
Aesthetic updates include new 20- and 22-inch wheel designs, while the infotainment system benefits from a refreshed user interface with updated graphics and smoother operation. The driving-assistance systems have been reworked for improved responsiveness and functionality.
Rivian’s new Connect+ subscription service now offers GoogleCast streaming video and Apple Music access, though the R1S still lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Headlamp technology has advanced with the introduction of “Adaptive Drive Beam,” which intelligently adjusts lighting to maximize visibility without dazzling oncoming drivers. This feature is expected to roll out via a software update later in 2024.
Additionally, Rivian has launched a special California Dune Edition trim, available on both the R1S and R1T, featuring a unique desert-inspired paint scheme and standard off-road equipment to complement its rugged nature.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The 2025 Rivian R1S starts at $78,450 and can climb to $107,700 depending on the chosen trim, motor configuration, and battery pack.
Trim | Starting MSRP (est.) |
---|---|
Adventure |
$78,450
|
California Dune Edition
|
$105,900
|
Premium |
$107,700
|
Ascend |
$107,700
|
Among the available trims, the Adventure model offers the best balance of features, performance, and price. While the higher-end Premium and Ascend trims come exclusively with the more powerful Tri- and Quad-Motor setups, they also carry a significant price jump. For most buyers, the Adventure trim with the Dual-Motor powertrain offers plenty of performance for daily driving and weekend adventures.
To maximize value and versatility, we recommend upgrading to the Large battery pack, which extends the vehicle’s driving range without reaching the top-tier price tag of the Max battery or Quad-Motor variants.
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
The 2025 Rivian R1S offers a range of electric powertrain options to suit various driving styles and performance needs. The standard Dual-Motor setup delivers an impressive 553 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough for confident acceleration and light off-road use. For those craving a bit more punch, Rivian offers a Performance Dual-Motor variant that, through a software enhancement, bumps output to 665 horsepower and 829 lb-ft of torque.
New for 2025 is a Tri-Motor configuration that combines two rear motors with one front unit, generating a massive 850 horsepower and 1103 lb-ft of torque. But if sheer power is the priority, the updated Quad-Motor option pushes the envelope even further with 1,050 horsepower and 1,198 lb-ft of torque—a significant jump of 215 hp and 290 lb-ft over last year’s version.
The Quad-Motor setup does more than deliver outrageous performance numbers; it also enhances off-road capability. Each wheel is powered independently, allowing for ultra-precise traction control that mimics the action of front and rear locking differentials. This means the R1S can continue moving even if only one wheel maintains grip.
In addition to powertrain upgrades, Rivian has refined the R1S’s chassis dynamics for 2025. Updates include new air springs, retuned adaptive dampers, revised suspension bushings, and an improved hydraulic roll mitigation system. These changes significantly reduce body roll, nose dive, and the “head bobbing” behavior seen in previous models, making for a more composed and engaging ride both on- and off-road.
0–60 MPH Times
Performance is a defining trait of the 2025 Rivian R1S, and the numbers speak for themselves. In testing, the new Tri-Motor version rocketed from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, placing it among the quickest SUVs—electric or otherwise—on the market.
Rivian estimates that the Quad-Motor version of the 2025 R1T pickup can sprint to 60 mph in under 2.5 seconds, and while the R1S SUV carries a bit more weight, it’s likely to reach 60 in the 2.6- to 2.7-second range—still supercar territory for a seven-passenger utility vehicle.
To match this high-speed potential, Rivian has increased the vehicle’s top speed from 110 mph to 130 mph, further enhancing its highway performance credentials. Whether launching off the line or overtaking on the freeway, the R1S delivers exhilarating speed in a package that defies its size.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The 2025 Rivian R1S retains its impressive towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds, making it one of the more capable electric SUVs in its class. Rivian also projects a payload capacity of 1,764 pounds, though that figure is awaiting final confirmation.
While we haven’t had the opportunity to tow with the R1S specifically, our towing experience with the closely related R1T pickup suggests a key consideration: electric vehicles tend to experience a significant drop in range while towing. Drivers planning to haul heavy loads over long distances should keep this in mind and plan charging stops accordingly.
Still, for weekend trailers, boats, or utility hauling, the R1S offers robust electric capability paired with Rivian’s signature off-road readiness.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The 2025 Rivian R1S is available with three distinct battery options, offering flexibility to meet various driving needs:
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Standard Battery Pack: Now using lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistry, it delivers 92.5 kWh of usable capacity and provides an estimated 270 miles of range in the Dual-Motor configuration.
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Large Battery Pack: Redesigned for efficiency, this pack offers 109.4 kWh (down from 129.4 kWh) and supports extended range options.
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Max Battery Pack: With a generous 141.5 kWh, this pack enables up to 410 miles of range when paired with the Dual-Motor setup. In the new Tri-Motor version, range is rated at 371 miles.
However, real-world results may vary. In our 75-mph highway range test, a 2025 R1S Tri-Motor with the Max battery achieved just 250 miles, highlighting how higher speeds and aggressive driving can affect efficiency.
When it comes to charging, the Standard battery supports up to 200 kW on a DC fast charger, while the Large and Max batteries can charge at 220 kW. Rivian estimates a 10% to 80% charge in 30 to 41 minutes, depending on battery size. In previous tests with a Quad-Motor R1S using the Large battery, we recorded a 10–90% charge time of 61 minutes.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
Thanks to its updated electrical architecture, the 2025 R1S gains a modest bump in efficiency. The most efficient Dual-Motor trim now achieves 85 MPGe combined, a 3 MPGe improvement over the 2024 model. Depending on wheel size and configuration, other Dual-Motor variants are rated between 72 and 84 MPGe combined by the EPA.
Official EPA ratings for the new Tri- and Quad-Motor models are still pending, but early highway testing offers some insight. In our 75-mph real-world test, a Tri-Motor R1S with the Max battery managed 54 MPGe, a figure that underscores the trade-off between performance and efficiency in higher-output versions.
MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) is the EPA’s method of comparing the energy use of electric vehicles to that of gas-powered cars. For the most accurate and up-to-date efficiency figures, visit the EPA’s official website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2025 Rivian R1S continues to impress with a cabin that blends modern design with upscale materials and thoughtful functionality. Inside, you’ll find premium leather upholstery, real wood accents, and a clean, contemporary layout anchored by dual digital displays—one serving as the central infotainment hub and the other acting as a fully digital gauge cluster for the driver.
While the R1S isn’t quite as cavernous as full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban, it offers plenty of space for families and adventurers alike. The third row provides additional seating for occasional use, making the R1S a legitimate seven-passenger SUV. Behind the second row, there’s 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space, and with both the second and third rows folded flat, the R1S transforms into a spacious cargo hauler with a completely flat load floor—ideal for camping gear, bikes, or home improvement supplies.
Additional practicality comes from a 12-cubic-foot front trunk (frunk), a split tailgate for easier loading and unloading, and numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin.
New for 2025 is an improved heat pump system, designed to heat the cabin more efficiently in colder temperatures. This upgrade not only improves passenger comfort but also helps conserve battery power during winter driving, addressing one of the common drawbacks of EVs in cold climates.
Infotainment and Connectivity
At the heart of the 2025 Rivian R1S tech experience is a 15.6-inch horizontally oriented infotainment display, featuring a clean, tile-based user interface. Key functions—such as navigation, media, and climate controls—are always accessible along the bottom of the screen for intuitive operation. The interface is snappy and visually polished, contributing to the R1S’s premium feel.
However, the system still does not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, a notable omission in today’s connected car landscape. To help bridge the gap, Rivian now offers a Connect+ subscription service. This new tier unlocks Google Cast streaming video, integration with over 3,000 compatible apps via smartphone, and built-in support for Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Alexa voice control.
Connectivity is further enhanced by a Wi-Fi hotspot that can connect up to eight devices, ensuring passengers stay entertained and online during road trips. A new Rivian Premium Audio system delivers immersive sound throughout the cabin, while an upgraded wireless phone charger improves usability for modern smartphones.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2025 Rivian R1S comes standard with Rivian’s next-generation Autonomy Platform, a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). This cutting-edge system combines 11 cameras, five radar units, and AI-powered predictive technology to enhance situational awareness—even in challenging conditions like rain, fog, or low-light environments.
Rivian’s focus on safety extends beyond hardware, with software that continues to evolve through over-the-air updates, ensuring the R1S gets smarter and safer over time.
Key standard safety features include:
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Automated emergency braking
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Lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
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Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
While full crash-test results for the 2025 model are not yet available, the R1S is expected to meet high safety standards. For the latest safety ratings and crash-test data, visit the official websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Rivian backs the 2025 R1S with a robust warranty package that reflects the brand’s confidence in its electric technology. The coverage is among the best in the EV segment, especially when it comes to battery and drivetrain protection.
Warranty coverage includes:
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Limited (bumper-to-bumper) warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
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Powertrain and battery warranty: 8 years or 175,000 miles
However, unlike some rivals—such as BMW, Volvo, or Hyundai—Rivian does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance, meaning owners will be responsible for routine service costs after purchase.
Still, the long battery and powertrain coverage adds peace of mind for those making the leap to electric.
2025 Rivian R1S Specifications
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Powertrain | Quad electric motors (AWD) |
Horsepower | 700+ hp |
Torque | 829 lb-ft (approx.) |
0–60 mph | 3.0–3.5 seconds |
EPA Range | ~316 miles |
Battery Capacity | ~135 kWh (estimated) |
Charging Time (DC fast) | 20 min to 140 miles |
Seating Capacity | 5 to 7 passengers |
Cargo Volume | Up to 108 cubic feet (with seats folded) |
Infotainment | 15.6-inch touchscreen |
Safety Features | Adaptive cruise, lane assist, AEB, blind spot |
Warranty | 5 yr/60k mi vehicle, 8 yr/175k mi battery |
Final Verdict
The 2025 Rivian R1S remains one of the most compelling electric SUVs on the market. It pairs groundbreaking performance with genuine off-road prowess and a luxurious, tech-forward interior. While it carries a premium price tag, the R1S rewards drivers with a unique blend of adventure readiness and sustainable driving. Whether you’re heading off-road or cruising city streets, the Rivian R1S makes a bold statement about the future of electric SUVs.
2025 Rivian R1S Videos