Discover the 2025 Rivian R1S’s performance upgrades, new battery options, and premium features, alongside its high price tag and reliance on touchscreens.
The 2025 Rivian R1S has emerged as a standout option in the world of electric SUVs, blending power, style, and off-road capability into one impressive package. As Rivian continues to evolve since its founding in 2009, the latest R1S model showcases substantial advancements and refinements.
Performance Enhancements and Battery Innovations
This year’s R1S sees several key updates that enhance its performance and battery life. The new battery packs utilize advanced chemistry to maintain range while reducing size. The Standard 92.5-kWh battery, now smaller than its predecessor, still delivers a solid 270 miles of range with a 200-kW maximum charging rate. The Large 109.4-kWh battery offers up to 330 miles of range, down slightly from last year’s 352 miles but improving efficiency and charging speed to 220 kW. The Max 141.5-kWh battery, replacing the previous 149-kWh unit, maintains a range of 410 miles with a 220-kW charging rate.
Performance options are diverse. The Dual-motor setup with the Standard battery produces 533 horsepower and 610 pound-feet of torque. Upgrading to the Large or Max battery boosts output to 665 horsepower and 829 pound-feet of torque. The new Tri-motor system, available only with the Max battery, delivers 850 horsepower and 1,103 pound-feet of torque. Later in 2025, the Quad-motor variant will debut with a staggering 1,025 horsepower and 1,198 pound-feet of torque, with each motor independently powering a wheel for exceptional off-road capabilities.
Design and Interior: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
The R1S is remarkably elegant for a 7,000-pound, three-row SUV. Its exterior combines contemporary design with classic off-road elements, creating a unique and striking look. The angular silhouette and vertical headlights give it a bold, futuristic appearance while nodding to the rugged design of past off-road icons.
Inside, Rivian continues its minimalist approach, utilizing a sleek touchscreen interface in place of physical controls. The interior features high-quality materials, ample space, and premium finishes across all three rows. While the touch-centric design may be polarizing, it complements the vehicle’s modern and futuristic aesthetic.
Acceleration and Performance: A Powerhouse on Wheels
Despite its hefty size, the 2025 Rivian R1S offers exceptional acceleration. The base model can achieve 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The Dual-motor setups with larger batteries reach 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, while the Tri-motor system accelerates in just 2.9 seconds. The upcoming Quad-motor variant is expected to reach 60 mph in a mere 2.5 seconds, underscoring its high-performance credentials.
Challenges: Cost and Technology Limitations
Despite its impressive features, the R1S is not without drawbacks. The heavy reliance on touchscreens over traditional physical controls may not appeal to all drivers, and the lack of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support might be seen as a missed opportunity. Additionally, the price of the R1S has risen significantly. The base model starts at $75,900, reflecting an increase from previous years. The Large and Max battery options add $7,000 and $14,000, respectively, and the Tri-motor models begin at $105,900. The Quad-motor R1S’s pricing remains undisclosed but is expected to be considerably higher.
Conclusion: A High-Performance Contender
The 2025 Rivian R1S represents a significant advancement over its predecessor, with notable improvements in performance, battery technology, and design. While its high price and reliance on touchscreens may present challenges, the R1S remains a compelling choice for those seeking a powerful, versatile, and stylish electric SUV. Despite some areas needing refinement, the R1S stands out as a formidable contender in the luxury electric vehicle market.
