2023 RIVIAN R1S DUAL MOTOR REVIEW | TWO MOTORS ISN'T BETTER THAN FOUR, BUT IT'S THE WAY TO GO

EV Channels Review

This review of the 2023 Rivian R1S Dual Motor Performance highlights its strengths as a practical and capable three-row EV SUV, particularly when compared to the Kia EV9. The reviewer praises the R1S's distinctive design, robust interior materials that have held up well over 12,500 miles, and its impressive off-road capabilities aided by adaptive air suspension. While acknowledging the Quad Motor version offers superior acceleration and handling due to torque vectoring, the Dual Motor is deemed "the way to go" for most buyers, providing "regular insane" performance with a 0-60 time just under 3.5 seconds and a real-world range that meets or exceeds EPA estimates. Key criticisms include a sometimes unreliable rear power hatch, a lack of a powered lower tailgate, and the absence of a "conserve" drive mode. The review also touches on the upcoming 2025 refresh, noting updates to battery technology (LFP for base models), new powertrain options (Tri-Motor), and a new electrochromatic glass roof, while confirming the Dual Motor remains a compelling choice for its balance of performance, range, and practicality.