LUCID GRAVITY VS. RIVIAN R1S: BATTLE OF THE UPSTART ELECTRIC SUVS

EV Channels Review

The Lucid Gravity Grand Touring and Rivian R1S are pitted against each other in a battle of American EV startups. The Lucid Gravity impresses with its phenomenal driving dynamics, quiet cabin, and excellent ride comfort, feeling more like a car than an SUV. Its powertrain is potent, and handling is a standout feature, even drawing comparisons to the Porsche 911. However, the Gravity is significantly hampered by persistent build quality issues, including inconsistent panel gaps, cheap-feeling interior trim, and problematic touch controls. The reviewer notes that despite its driving prowess, the Gravity does not feel like a finished product and requires more polish. The Rivian R1S, in contrast, is presented as a mature and well-built vehicle. It offers solid build quality, impressive on-road and off-road capability, and clever packaging. While its driving dynamics and ride comfort don't quite match the Gravity's, the R1S is deemed the more complete package for the present. The R1S also excels in technology and cargo features, including a built-in air compressor and a removable Bluetooth speaker. Despite both vehicles falling short of their EPA range estimates in Edmunds' real-world test (Gravity: 400 miles, R1S: 361 miles), the Gravity showed superior efficiency and faster charging. Ultimately, the Rivian R1S is declared the winner due to its superior build quality, refined interior, and overall feeling of being a finished product, making it the choice for immediate purchase, though the Gravity's potential is acknowledged.