staff Rivian’s flagship R1S SUV is a vehicle that can silence EV naysayers with its 316-mile range. It also has features that can improve your driving experience, like highway assist controlling steering, braking and acceleration, and lane change assist.
Learn more about Rivian by checking out a demo drive at one of its service centers or hubs. You can even bring up to three guests for your experience.
Look for a Certified Pre-Owned R1S
Despite production bottlenecks and supply chain challenges, Rivian’s e-SUV is still quite popular. Due to this, the secondary market price of a brand-new R1S has risen and is currently close to $100,000. The good news is that there are various places where to buy a used Rivian R1S without spending a bunch.
The 2023 Rivian R1S features a similar design as its predecessor but with some improvements. The base model’s price of $78,000 is still high, but it’s more competitive than SUVs from other luxury brands in the same class. It also comes with all the standard amenities you’d expect to find in a premium electric vehicle, such as two large digital displays, an advanced Driver+ hands-free driving system, and automatic braking and lane keeping.
Rivian also offers many unique options to personalize your SUV, including paint colors like Rivian Blue and Compass Yellow and different wheels and tires. The interior is outfitted with unique vegan leather and recycled floor mats, while the exterior sports a rugged, outdoorsy look.
Other upgrades include a power hatch release and pull-down, a front cargo area utility center with an air compressor and 120-volt outlet, and 104 cubic feet of storage space with the second and third-row seats folded flat. Every Rivian has a CCS plug for charging at home or public stations, and it can drive 140 miles on a single charge.
Do Your Research
One of the best ways to get a feel for what you’ll be driving is by renting one. You can find Rivian vehicles for around $293 to $470 a day — half what you would pay to buy a new one.
Rivian doesn’t have dealerships, like traditional automakers, but instead focuses on building community through its membership program. Those who join can schedule a test drive to place orders or request service through the company’s website and dedicated phone line. Each buyer is assigned a Rivian guide who stays with them throughout their ownership experience.
While many Rivian owners praise the company’s commitment to customer service, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Rivian has issued two recalls — one involving an improperly torqued bolt and the other centered on cross-threaded bolts in seatbelt height adjusters. Despite the setbacks, most R1S owners say they love their vehicles. One owner describes his R1T as the “perfect dad car,” which can help chauffeur kids, sports equipment, and even his dog while accelerating to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
Check the Vehicle’s History
Buying a used vehicle can be tricky. While you can find some fantastic deals, taking your time and doing the necessary research is essential. This way, you can avoid any surprises down the road. One of the most important things to check is the vehicle’s history. Using a Rivian VIN check, you can ensure that the vehicle you are interested in is safe to drive.
The 2023 Rivian R1S was designed from the ground up to be an all-around utility vehicle that’s just as capable off-road as it is on a highway or at a local park. It features an impressive amount of space for stowage and second and third-row seating that folds completely flat. It also has a powerful electric motor, which can tow up to 7,700 pounds.
The R1S is quick and comfortable to drive, with a smooth, quiet ride that’s almost silent at freeway speeds. It has a variety of driver-assistance systems, including blind spot and lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking with forward collision warning, high auto beams, and more. Drivers can customize the driving experience with several modes, from comfort to sport.
The Rivian R1S has a standard or large battery pack, providing up to 260 miles of range and a top speed of 62 mph. A range-topping max battery pack will be offered next year.
Schedule a Test Drive
With EV sales booming, there’s no shortage of options for consumers. But a test drive is essential for a high-ticket item like an electric SUV to help you decide if you’re comfortable with the investment.
Fortunately, Rivian is launching a program called the Rivian Tour in August that will offer demo drives of its vehicles. It’s initially targeting Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, Chicago, Detroit, and Seattle, with more locations to follow. Pre-order holders will receive priority, though non-customers will also be allowed to participate.
The 2023 Rivian R1S starts at $78,000, and the large battery pack that enables 321 miles of range adds $8,000. Rivian also offers a Quad-Motor configuration for an extra $12,000 and a vegan leather interior that doesn’t use animal products (though it uses convincingly realistic simulated leather that hasn’t been directly harmed).
If you want to try a Rivian before buying one, you can schedule a mobile test drive by visiting Rivian’s website. Rivian will send the vehicle to your home, and a company representative will provide an in-depth walkthrough before you hit the road. If you want a more immersive experience, you can sign up for a Rivian tour event at a company’s service centers or hubs. You’ll drive the R1S on a curated local route alongside a Rivian specialist at those events.
