R1S vs. R1T: Which Rivian Reigns Supreme?
After driving an R1S Dual Max while my R1T Quad AWD was in for service, I couldn’t help but compare the two. Both vehicles have captivated the electric vehicle market, but they cater to different preferences. This comparison, based on my experience and insights from the Rivian community, explores the nuances of handling, comfort, and performance to help you decide which Rivian is right for you.
The Facebook Conversation Spark
The original inspiration for this comparison came from a Facebook post by Graham Hine in the RIVIAN Electric Vehicles group. Graham shared his loaner experience with the R1S Dual Max while his R1T was in the shop. He found the R1T offered a more solid driving feel, particularly on country roads. The R1S, on the other hand, had more cabin noise. Despite these differences, Graham ultimately preferred the R1T for his needs, highlighting the vehicle’s utility.
“I enjoyed the R1S, but for the kind of driving I do and what I need, the R1T is more useful,” Graham said. “The R1S is a great vehicle, but I feel more connected to the R1T in terms of driving experience.”
R1T: The Truck-Like Quality
My thoughts echo those of other Rivian owners. The R1T has a distinct truck-like quality, providing a planted feel and stability, especially on rugged terrain or winding roads. The R1S, with its higher cabin, has different acoustics, which some may find less desirable. The R1T also excels in features like a robust sport mode and off-road capabilities, which are crucial for those who frequently venture off the beaten path.
What Other Rivian Owners Are Saying
Several other owners shared their experiences. R1T JAX, for example, had a less-than-ideal loaner car. The R1T’s gear tunnel is a game-changer for those who need more storage capacity, particularly on camping trips. They ultimately landed on the R1T because of this feature, making them the perfect vehicle for camping trips.
Vincent Pace, owning both an R1T and an R1S Launch Edition Quad, offered a contrasting perspective.
“I can confidently say that the R1S handles significantly better than the R1T,” Vincent explained. “The turning radius is much tighter, so parking is a breeze, while the R1T requires a few back-and-forth maneuvers. On mountain roads, the R1S feels like a racecar with instant acceleration and tight, responsive turns, while the R1T, despite its great truck capabilities, feels sluggish and drifts in sharp corners.”
Adam Pilling further solidified this perspective.
“The R1T’s longer wheelbase does give it a more planted, solid feel on the road, though it’s less nimble compared to the R1S,” Adam said. “We quickly realized during a camping trip just how much storage the gear tunnel on the R1T provides. This alone reaffirmed our love for the R1T.”
The R1S’s maneuverability and sporty handling make it a good choice for drivers, while the R1T’s gear tunnel is ideal for those who need more storage space.
Finding Your Perfect Rivian
Ultimately, the R1S and R1T are both excellent vehicles. The R1S offers a nimbler, sportier ride. However, the R1T is ideal for drivers who need a vehicle with more storage and off-road flexibility. If you value agile handling, the R1S may be the better fit. But if you prioritize off-road capability and extra storage, the R1T wins. The decision depends on your lifestyle and driving needs.
What are your thoughts?
Do you prioritize handling or utility? Share your Rivian experiences in the comments below!
