Video Summary
Here is the summary:This review covers the 2025 Rivian R1S Gen 2 and compares it to a Tesla Model Y. The reviewer has been an EV-only household for three years.
Key findings:
Rivian combines nature and technology, from exterior design to interior graphics. The headlights are inviting, and the logo is a compass. However, the exterior is boxy.
The R1S is an adventure-capable midsize SUV, but doesn't look intimidating.
The review model has standard bench seating in the second row. There is no captain chair option. However, the middle seat can go down giving the illusion of captain chairs. The third row is uncomfortable for tall passengers.
The large frunk is useful for groceries or smelly items.
The trunk has a spacious compartment that can be raised to create an even floor. Tie-down points secure items. The trunk also has a 120v outlet.
Buttons to fold the second row down are in the trunk. There are no buttons to return the seats. The third row is also fully manual.
The back is a split gate with a powered top and manual bottom, that makes a great bench.
The interior is premium, and the reviewer loves its futuristic look. It features a driver display, a 15-inch center display, and a rear seat display.
The reviewer appreciates the consistent, better-than-phone mobile hotspot signal of the car. There's also premium-feeling leather seats and accents, and a panoramic sunroof in first and second rows.
A major drawback, though, is that on the 2025 model, the front speakers sound terrible. The issue is only on those versions of the car with the premium audio sound system.
There is no glove box. Small cubbies are at the base of both front seats.
Wireless charging does not work well, so the reviewer replaced it with a MagSafe third-party charger.
"Adventure" is Rivian's word, but the reviewer finds "inviting" a better description.
Also, random rattles are noticed while driving.
A plus is that EV technology keeps improving and is more reliable now.
Compared to a Tesla, 75% of new R1S and R1T customers are new to EVs. 60% of R1T customers have never owned a pickup truck.
When switching from a gas car to the R1S, drivers will notice the car features a one-pedal EV-driving mode with regenerative brakes.
The most substantial change is charging instead of gassing up. It is often convenient, when it's a Level 2 charger.
Access to Tesla's supercharging network with an adapter makes the transition to EVs feel more seamless.
Charging costs can vary, but can be managed by purchasing a subscription with the brand. Overall, home-charging is more cost-effective.
The driver assistance system is at or below a Tesla vehicle's autopilot.
Cosmetic changes between generations are minimal, but major components and software are always improving.
The reviewer would purchase the car again.
