Rivian R1S Performance Dual-Motor Max

Overview

The Rivian R1S is Rivian's adventurous seven-seat electric SUV, and this Performance Dual-Motor Max trim is the one for thrill-seeking families wanting serious range. It blends rugged capability with blistering pace and a tech-laden cabin. As a US import, its official European pricing and availability are still eagerly anticipated, but expect it to be a premium contender. Key highlights include its potent dual-motor setup, massive Max battery pack, and distinctive, friendly-yet-tough design. It's a true do-it-all EV for those who venture beyond the tarmac.

What's New for 2025?

The 2025 Rivian R1S lineup, which includes this potent Performance Dual-Motor Max trim, receives a significant refresh! Under the skin, there's a revamped electrical architecture and an improved heat pump for better efficiency. More excitingly, Rivian has introduced new, more powerful in-house motors for this performance variant, delivering even punchier acceleration. The battery packs are also updated for potentially better energy density and charging performance, ensuring this adventure SUV stays at the cutting edge. These upgrades aim to refine the driving experience and extend its already impressive capabilities.

Design & Exterior

The Rivian R1S Performance Dual-Motor Max retains its instantly recognizable, boxy-but-smooth silhouette. Think friendly robot meets Tonka truck! Its signature vertical "stadium" headlights and full-width light bar give it a unique face, day or night. This trim typically sports aerodynamically optimized wheels that complement its adventurous yet sophisticated stance. Measuring 5100 mm long, 2014 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and 1963 mm tall, it has a commanding presence on the road, ready to turn heads whether in the city or exploring the great outdoors.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the R1S Performance Dual-Motor Max offers a spacious and minimalist cabin, often featuring sustainable materials and high-quality finishes. With versatile seating for five or seven, passenger comfort is a priority. Dominating the dash are large digital displays for infotainment and driver information, though official Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support has been a notable omission, relying on Rivian's native system. For your gear, there's a 144-litre boot (behind the third row), expanding to a massive 2262 litres with seats folded, plus a generous 314-litre frunk – proper clever storage!

Performance & Driving Experience

Hold on tight! The R1S Performance Dual-Motor Max rockets from 0-100 km/h in a rapid 3.7 seconds, thanks to its potent all-wheel-drive system. It packs a serious punch with 496 kW and a colossal 1124 Nm of torque from its dual PMSM electric motors, one on each axle. Expect neck-snapping acceleration paired with surprisingly agile handling for such a big beast. Ride comfort is generally excellent, soaking up bumps, and various regenerative braking modes allow for efficient one-pedal driving. It’s a rocket ship SUV!

Range, Battery & Charging

This long-legged adventurer boasts a substantial 141 kWh usable battery pack. Green Cars Compare calculates a real-world range of around 612 km, with an impressive efficiency of 4.34 km/kWh for its size. For European shores, expect a CCS Type 2 port. AC charging tops out at 11.5 kW, meaning an overnight full charge is easy. When you need a quick top-up, it can guzzle electrons at up to 215 kW on a DC fast charger, getting you back on the road swiftly. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities are also often included.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While specific Euro NCAP ratings for the R1S are yet to be published, Rivian equips its vehicles with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The "Driver+" assistance system is standard, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These systems aim to provide Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities, enhancing both safety and convenience on long journeys. Expect a strong focus on occupant protection, given its family-hauling credentials and robust construction.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Rivian's warranty in its home market is typically comprehensive, offering a 5-year/approx. 100,000 km basic vehicle warranty and an impressive 8-year/approx. 280,000 km warranty for the battery pack and drivetrain, guaranteeing a certain percentage of battery health. European warranty terms would be confirmed upon official launch, but expect them to be competitive. Maintenance on EVs is generally lower than combustion cars due to fewer moving parts. Early reliability for Rivian has seen some teething issues, but the brand is actively addressing these through updates and service improvements.