Rivian R1S Performance Dual-Motor Max

Overview

The 2025 Rivian R1S Performance Dual Motor Max is a seriously capable, adventure-ready electric SUV that’s turning heads. This top-tier trim combines a massive battery with punchy dual motors for impressive range and off-the-line shove. It’s aimed at families and explorers who want luxury, tech, and genuine off-road prowess without tailpipe emissions. While official European pricing is yet to be announced, expect it to be a premium offering, reflecting its extensive features and performance credentials. Its unique blend of ruggedness and refinement makes it a standout contender in the large electric SUV segment.

What's New for 2025?

For 2025, Rivian has refined the R1S, and the Performance Dual Motor Max trim benefits significantly. Key updates include a redesigned heat pump for better cold-weather efficiency – crucial for many European climates. The electrical architecture has been revamped, reducing wiring and weight. New in-house developed dual motors, comprising Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM) at both front and rear, debut in this configuration, promising enhanced power delivery. Expect subtle suspension tweaks for an even better balance of on-road comfort and off-road agility. The infotainment system also receives software updates for a smoother experience.

Design & Exterior

The R1S Performance Dual Motor Max boasts a distinctive, ruggedly handsome design. Its boxy-yet-modern silhouette is instantly recognizable, highlighted by the signature 'stadium' headlights and full-width taillight bar. This trim often features larger, stylish alloy wheels and subtle badging. It’s a big machine, measuring 5100 mm in length, 2082 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and standing 1955 mm tall, giving it serious road presence. The design cleverly balances adventure-ready cues with a premium, clean aesthetic, making it look at home both in the wilderness and cruising city streets.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the R1S Performance Dual Motor Max offers a minimalist, upscale cabin with high-quality, often sustainable materials. It’s properly spacious, configurable with 5 or 7 seats, offering excellent comfort for all passengers. Luggage space is mega: 481 litres in the boot, expanding to a van-like 2548 litres with seats folded, plus a very handy 314-litre frunk up front! Tech is dominated by a large central touchscreen and digital driver display, running Rivian’s proprietary system. While it currently lacks native Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, its built-in navigation and media options are comprehensive.

Performance & Driving Experience

This R1S Performance Dual Motor Max is a rocket ship! It’ll catapult you from 0-100 km/h in a blistering 3.6 seconds, thanks to its potent all-wheel-drive system powered by dual PMSM motors (one front, one rear) unleashing a massive 496 kW and 1124 Nm of torque, hitting a top speed of 209 km/h. Despite its size, it handles with surprising agility, offering a comfortable ride via its standard air suspension. Multiple drive modes tailor the experience. Regenerative braking is strong and highly configurable, allowing for effective one-pedal driving when desired.

Range, Battery & Charging

With a substantial 140 kWh usable battery pack, the Performance Dual Motor Max delivers an impressive real-world range, estimated by Green Cars Compare at 627 km. Its efficiency is rated at 4.48 km/kWh. For charging, it accepts up to 11.5 kW on AC, meaning a full top-up overnight (around 13-14 hours). Hooked up to a DC fast charger using its 400V architecture, it can gulp down electrons at up to 220 kW. For the European market, it would be equipped with a CCS Type 2 port. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability is also a key feature.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While specific Euro NCAP ratings for the 2025 R1S are pending its potential European launch, Rivian equips its vehicles with a comprehensive suite of safety tech. The "Driver+" assistance system, standard on this trim, includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Expect a surround-view camera system and parking sensors to make maneuvering this big SUV easier. These systems aim for a high level of safety and driving convenience, comparable to other premium offerings in the segment, though no official NHTSA rating is listed yet.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Rivian typically offers a solid warranty package in its current markets. For European customers, one might anticipate a comprehensive vehicle warranty around 5 years/100,000 km. The crucial battery pack (with its 140 kWh usable capacity) and powertrain are usually covered for a longer period, often 8 years or a significant kilometre threshold, with a degradation guarantee. While official European maintenance schedules are yet to be confirmed, Rivian's model often includes mobile service options. Continuous improvements are being made with software updates and production refinements, addressing early reliability observations.