If you thought an electric SUV could be practical, powerful, and capable of tackling tough terrains, the 2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor might just blow your expectations away. At $124,490, is it really worth it? Hold on tight, we’re diving into the guts of this tech monster.
A high bar for electric SUVs
The Rivian R1S Quad Motor has entered the fray with a bold promise: to do everything, and do it well. With its ability to tow up to 3,500 kg, a configuration for seven people, and off-road capabilities that would make a true 4×4 blush, it’s hard not to be impressed. Imagine a storm chaser that could also double as a family shuttle: that’s what the R1S embodies. Its 1,025-horsepower engine propels this colossus to acceleration speeds that few other SUVs can match. In Conserve mode, it offers over 400 kilometres of range; if you’re less cautious, expect around 600 kilometres. Yes, you read that right, an SUV that can go the distance on the motorway while being ready to explore the most winding paths.
All of this sounds great, but there’s a catch: the price. The dual-motor version starts at $76,990, offering 533 horsepower and a range of about 270 kilometres. The Quad Motor version quickly climbs to $121,990, and my test model reached nearly $125,000 after options. Does this sum justify everything that’s hidden under the hood? The following might surprise you.
A software worthy of science fiction
The first thing that strikes you about the Rivian is its software. By integrating Android with a Rivian-specific interface, the user experience is smooth, fast, and almost futuristic. It’s a bit like piloting a spaceship in a science fiction movie: everything seems within reach, even the most advanced controls. Every command is responsive, and even when I pushed the system to its limits, there was no latency to disrupt my navigation. It’s rare for a vehicle to offer a platform that evolves over time like this; essentially, you’re not just buying a car, but a system that improves.
The R1S Quad Motor also stands out for its ability to adjust crucial parameters such as suspension and throttle response. With the RAD Tuner, you can play with the settings to achieve an even sportier or off-road-friendly behaviour. If you’ve ever felt like you were driving a spaceship in a video game, you’ll completely understand what I feel behind the wheel of this SUV. Add to that various driving modes and the Kick Turn feature, and you have a vehicle that seems to bend to all your will.
Breathtaking performance and versatility
With dedicated motors for each wheel, this beast develops an impressive 1,025 horsepower and a torque of 1,198 Nm. In towing mode, the R1S can pull up to 3,500 kg. For those who don’t need to tow that much, this figure is more than sufficient to transport all your camping gear or even your boat. And since it’s an electric SUV, towing a trailer is done with such ease that you’ll feel like you’re taking a child for a stroll.
Granted, there are other electric vehicles better suited for towing, but none offer this unique combination of space and comfort for seven passengers. The R1S proves to be incredibly versatile, ready to hit the road for a family outing or a weekend adventure without ever falling short.
Impressive range and simplified charging
Rivian claims a maximum range of 400 kilometres in Conserve mode; during my test, I achieved around 375 kilometres despite a few excursions in Sport mode. For such a powerful and heavy SUV, that’s simply exceptional. By comparison, rivals like the Hyundai IONIQ 9 don’t exceed 330 kilometres. The only competitor that seems to rival in terms of range is the Lucid Gravity Grand Touring, which nears 450 kilometres but lacks the same dynamic performance.
When it comes to charging, the matter becomes even more interesting thanks to its NACS port compatible with Tesla superchargers. It’s almost as if Rivian has managed to make charging as accessible as a simple household plug. Whether at home or in public stations, the R1S easily integrates into your daily life.
A spacious and stylish interior
Inside the R1S, you’ll find generous space with high-quality materials that evoke the warm atmosphere of a modern wooden cabin. The seats are comfortable, with enough space for even tall individuals to feel at ease. The third row can accommodate adults without subjecting them to tortures worthy of the worst scenarios; visibility is excellent thanks to a dedicated panoramic roof.
The wood finishes add a touch of rustic elegance that enhances this feeling of escaping into nature while enjoying modern technology. Who would have thought an SUV could resemble a holiday home so much? The customisable ambient lighting allows for a warm atmosphere in the evening, turning every journey into a pleasant experience.
Generous cargo space
The R1S also offers clever cargo space with 17.7 cubic feet available behind the third row and a clever frunk (front trunk) of about 11 cubic feet. This means that even with all seats occupied, you’ll still have enough room for your groceries or adventure gear. The frunk isn’t just an empty space: it’s designed to be practical with modular compartments and even a drainage valve for wet items.
It’s ideal for families who love spending time outdoors or who need a vehicle capable of transporting all their gear. When you consider all these practical features in one vehicle, it quickly becomes clear that the Rivian R1S is a wise choice.
Final verdict: does it deserve its price?
In conclusion, very few vehicles manage to check all the boxes like the R1S Quad Motor does. Whether you need a spacious family transport, a leisure vehicle, or a fun machine on the road, this one seems designed to meet all those needs. Despite a few minor flaws — a lack of rear camera or manual seats — nothing detracts from the driving pleasure it offers. So dare to ask the question: are you ready to shell out nearly $125,000 to be behind the wheel of such a gem? The answer seems obvious.
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