The Rivian R1S Is... The Best SUV Ever?
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Promos
Rivian R1S is an awesome, expensive SUV. That's on purpose. The podcast with RJ Scaringe: youtu.be Auto Focus channel: youtube.com JerryRigEverything tows with a Rivian R1T: youtu.be MKBHD Merch: shop.mkbhd.com Tech I'm using right now: amazon.com Intro Track: youtube.com Playlist of MKBHD Intro music: goo.gl Vehicle loaned by Rivian for review. ~ twitter.com @MKBHD @MKBHD
The video opens by framing the Rivian R1S as potentially the best SUV you can buy today, noting that electric vehicles are still generally expensive and that the industry tends to position EVs at the high end to deliver a stronger product first. The host explains the strategic dilemma for automakers: whether to compete on top-tier performance and features or to chase lower prices as technology matures. He argues that Rivian has chosen the high-end route with the R1S, leveraging a strong overall package to justify premium pricing, with the R1S sharing much of the R1T’s underpinnings while adding a third row and SUV practicality. He highlights the interior refinements, including an improved Meridian audio system, better materials, and a more solid build quality, while praising the panoramic glass roof and the thoughtful seating arrangement. The review then pivots to practical usability, showing how the rear seats fold, access to the third row, and the spacious cargo areas that lie beneath flat loading surfaces, emphasizing how the design blends usability with the vehicle’s electric advantages such as extra cargo space due to no gas tank. He also emphasizes the driving experience, noting strong acceleration from the quad-motor setup, a nimble feel thanks to a shorter wheelbase than the truck, and a versatile suspension system that can be tuned from comfortable to stiffer sport modes. Throughout, the host acknowledges some potential drawbacks, like the sportiness relative to other high-performance SUVs and the cost, while underscoring Rivian’s broader strategy to improve efficiency and lower prices over time through new platforms like the R2. In closing, he reflects on the R1S’s positioning within the EV market, praising Rivian for delivering a compelling, fun-to-drive, three-row adventure vehicle that still serves as a gateway to cheaper future models and a broader charging network expansion, with optimism for better affordability as the technology matures.
Topics · vehicles · electric_vehicles · technology · review · suv · car_reviews · EV_industry · automotive
Questions answered
- What makes the Rivian R1S stand out among three-row SUVs?
- The R1S combines a high-end, tech-forward interior with expansive cargo space, a third row, a spacious practical layout, and a quad-motor all-electric drivetrain that delivers strong acceleration and versatile suspension for both everyday driving and adventures.
- How does the R1S compare to other SUVs in terms of value and price strategy?
- The video argues that high-end EVs are priced premium early on to fund the technology, with future, cheaper models like the planned R2 platform expected as tech costs fall, making the overall product strategy to offer a best-in-class experience first and affordable options later.
- What are the main usability features highlighted for cargo and seating?
- The back seats fold with a shoulder button, the tailgate is split for easier loading, there is substantial underfloor storage, a sizable trunk, and the third row is accessible with comfortable but compact rear seating and rear vents for back-seat passengers.