2022 Rivian R1S: An Electric Adventure SUV
The 2022 Rivian R1S arrived as a highly anticipated entrant into the burgeoning electric SUV market, aiming to blend family-friendly practicality with serious off-road capability and a premium, tech-forward experience. Building on the foundation of its R1T pickup truck sibling, the R1S offers a compelling package for those seeking an adventure-ready, all-electric vehicle.
Highlights
- Powertrain: The R1S boasts Rivian's innovative quad-motor all-wheel-drive system. This setup provides exceptional power and precise torque vectoring, allowing for remarkable on-road performance and off-road prowess. Each wheel is independently controlled, enabling the R1S to navigate challenging terrain with agility and confidence.
- Performance: The dual-motor setup delivers a potent combination of acceleration and range. While exact figures can vary slightly by configuration, expect brisk acceleration that rivals many performance SUVs.
- Safety Features: Rivian prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) integrated into the R1S, collectively referred to as Driver+.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Lane Keeping Assist: Helps to keep the vehicle centered within its lane, providing gentle steering corrections when needed.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Detects potential collisions and applies the brakes automatically to avoid or mitigate impacts.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots.
- Surround View Camera System: Provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle, aiding in parking and low-speed maneuvering.
- Highway Autopilot: Rivian's hands-free driving system designed for use on compatible highways, further enhancing the driving experience on long journeys.
- Trims: The 2022 R1S was offered in two primary configurations, differentiated primarily by battery size and resulting range:
- Adventure: This trim typically comes with the Large Pack battery, offering a substantial electric range and emphasizing the vehicle's off-road capabilities with features like all-terrain tires and enhanced underbody protection.
- Dual-Motor Performance: While not a distinct trim in the same way as the R1T, the R1S could be optioned with different motor configurations. The quad-motor setup is standard, but buyers could choose a more performance-oriented tuning, often paired with larger battery packs for extended range and enhanced acceleration.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Three-Row Seating: A significant advantage over its R1T counterpart, the R1S offers flexible three-row seating, accommodating up to seven occupants. This makes it a practical choice for families.
- Spacious Interior: The cabin is designed to be airy and modern, with a minimalist aesthetic dominated by a large central touchscreen. High-quality materials contribute to a premium feel.
- "Gear Tunnel" and Frunk: Mirroring the R1T, the R1S offers versatile storage solutions. The rear cargo area includes the innovative "Gear Tunnel," a pass-through storage compartment accessible from both sides of the vehicle, ideal for skis, surfboards, or other long items. A front trunk ("frunk") provides additional secure storage.
- Advanced Infotainment: A large, landscape-oriented touchscreen serves as the command center for most vehicle functions, including navigation, climate control, and entertainment. Over-the-air (OTA) updates ensure the software remains current.
What to Expect
The typical ownership experience with a 2022 Rivian R1S is characterized by a blend of modern convenience, surprising performance, and a commitment to adventure.
- Driving Experience: On the road, the R1S offers a remarkably smooth and quiet ride, typical of electric vehicles. The instant torque from the quad-motor setup provides exhilarating acceleration, and the adaptive air suspension can adjust ride height for both comfortable highway cruising and elevated ground clearance for off-roading. The torque vectoring also contributes to impressive handling for an SUV of its size.
- Maintenance: As an electric vehicle, the R1S generally requires less frequent and less complex maintenance than a gasoline-powered SUV. Routine maintenance typically involves checking tire pressure, inspecting brake pads (which experience less wear due to regenerative braking), and cabin air filter replacements. Rivian's charging infrastructure and service network are still developing, so early adopters might experience longer wait times for service appointments or have to rely on mobile service.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for electric vehicles, especially premium models like the R1S, can be higher than for comparable gasoline vehicles. This is often due to the higher replacement cost of batteries and specialized components, as well as the advanced technology onboard. It's advisable to get insurance quotes early in the purchasing process to factor this into your budget.
Potential Considerations
While the Rivian R1S is an impressive vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Charging Infrastructure: While the R1S can charge at any compatible public charging station (Level 2 or DC fast chargers), relying solely on public charging can be a consideration. Rivian's own "Rivian Waypoints" charging network is expanding, but its availability might not be as widespread as established networks for all travel routes. Home charging is highly recommended for convenience.
- Software Glitches and Early Adoption Quirks: As a new entrant with cutting-edge technology, early production models of the R1S (including the 2022 model year) may have experienced occasional software glitches or minor operational quirks. While Rivian is diligent with OTA updates, some users may encounter minor issues that are ironed out over time.
- Service Network Scalability: Rivian is actively building out its service centers and mobile service fleet. However, depending on your location, the availability and speed of service could be a factor, especially compared to well-established automotive brands with extensive dealer networks.
Overall Summary
The 2022 Rivian R1S is a groundbreaking electric SUV that successfully merges family practicality with serious off-road capability and sophisticated technology. Its powerful quad-motor system, versatile interior with three-row seating, and innovative storage solutions make it a unique and compelling offering. While early adoption considerations regarding the charging network and service infrastructure exist, the R1S delivers a premium, adventurous, and environmentally conscious driving experience that positions it as a leader in the premium electric SUV segment.
