Following the R1T pickup launch, the 2022 Rivian R1S SUV is the second of what promises to be a full line of electric vehicles from start-up EV manufacturer Rivian. As first salvos go, this one packs quite a punch. The electric SUV offers a choice of 5- or 7-passenger seating, three trims, and three battery options.
For now, the only battery pack available is the 135-kWh unit that’s good for an EPA combined rating of 69 MPGe and a range of 316 miles. As production goes forward, the standard battery will be a 105-kWh pack with a 250-mile range. Look for that model in 2024. There also will be an R1S with an optional 180-kWh max pack that can travel more than 400 miles before needing recharging.
When equipped with the most potent battery pack, the R1S can scoot to 60 mph in 3 seconds and has a tow rating of 7,700 pounds.
The first trim offered is the Launch Edition, which has already sold out. Available to order are the two remaining trims, the Adventure and Explore both currently available with the large 135-kWh battery.
In a brief drive of a Rivian R1S equipped with the large battery, we were impressed by this new electric SUV for sale. It’s easy to brake smoothly, and the R1S feels a lot like the R1T electric pickup from the driver’s seat.
What’s more, the R1S is plenty quick, and the active dampers of the air suspension deliver a smooth but well-controlled ride. Of note: Body roll in corners is countered by an electro-hydraulic roll control system that eliminates the need for traditional anti-roll bars.
Lastly, we’re happy to report that the R1S cabin is impressively quiet, devoid of the road and wind noise that can plague other EVs.
2022 Rivian R1S Explore (starting at $84,500)
The Explore package is the first of three trims in the R1S SUV fleet. It serves as the base from which the other two models grow but comes nicely equipped.
The 2022 R1S Explore is powered by four electric motors, one at each wheel. It has an advanced air suspension that allows it to wade through water up to 3 feet deep and attain ground clearances from 8.1 to 14.2 inches. Intended for rugged off-road adventures, the R1S has a 34.8-degree approach angle, 34.3-degree departure angle, and 28.9-degree breakover angle.
Active safety and driver assists include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitor, and adaptive cruise control. A set of 360-degree sensors can alert the driver to objects near the vehicle, while a trailer-assist system helps when backing up with a trailer attached. Automatic high-beam headlights are also part of the package.
Equipped with Driver+ Level 3 autonomous driving technology, the R1S can, under certain circumstances, drive itself, as well as change lanes. The R1S also features an interior camera that monitors the driver for drowsiness or inattentive driving.
Rivian intends the Explore’s interior to be rugged yet straightforward. The simulated leather seating, which Rivian calls vegan leather, comes in Black Mountain or Ocean Coast (black or light gray). Seats are power-operated with power lumbar for the driver’s seat, and the steering wheel is heated. A fixed tinted glass roof is standard.
Two large digital display screens occupy most of the R1S dash. The screen directly in front of the driver simulates a traditional instrument cluster with gauges for speed, the electric system, and an external display. A larger center screen covers infotainment, navigation, and interior climate controls, and includes the controls for the standard heated front seats.
Rivian says the R1S infotainment system will include a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless smartphone charging, streaming Bluetooth, six USB ports, two 110-volt outlets, and Alexa voice control. What is unknown is whether Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will make the cut or whether Rivian plans to offer an in-house solution for accessing apps, maps, and music.
The standard audio system by Meridian includes a 280-watt amp powering 12 speakers.
Because there is no engine under the hood, Rivian uses the space to create a lockable front trunk. A power-operated split tailgate makes it easy to load and unload cargo, and provides a spot to sit down or rest your gear. Combined with the rear cargo bay, the R1S has a total combined cargo volume of 108 cubic feet.
Optional equipment for the R1S Explore includes an auto-dimming glass roof; various 20-, 21-, and 22-inch wheels; nine exterior colors; and an off-road upgrade that brings skid-plate protection, an air compressor, and front tow hooks.
The 2022 Rivian R1S SUV is backed by a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and an 8-year/175,000-mile warranty covering the battery and drivetrain.
A 2022 Rivian R1S Explore costs $84,500, plus a destination fee of $1,075 and a documentation fee of $70.
Rivian plans to provide financing through Chase in a seamless process that differs from an ordinary car loan. The process will be completely digital, but final details on rates and terms are yet to be established. A $1,000 deposit is due upon placing a pre-order.
If you finance a Rivian R1S Explore through your own bank, an $85,645 loan with no money down at 3% interest brings the monthly payment to $1,539.
2022 Rivian R1S Explore includes:
Driver + – Includes driver-assist technology such as adaptive cruise control and Level 3 autonomous driving.
Vegan leather seating – Simulated leather that looks and feels like the real thing, only with a longer shelf life. The fabric complements the textile headliner and floor mats made of 100% recycled material.
Seating for five or seven passengers – Opt for two rows, and you’ll get considerable cargo space. Check the no-charge optional third-row seat, and you’ll have room for two more friends.
Heated front seats and steering wheel – Ensures your hands and back are warm and comfortable.
2022 Rivian R1S Adventure ($90,000)
The Adventure grade adds more luxury to the R1S interior, with handsome ashwood incorporated into the dash. In addition to the Explore’s Black Mountain and Ocean Coast interior themes, the Adventure offers Forest Edge, a light olive green upholstery with brown wood trim.
The Adventure comes standard with the glass roof and off-road upgrade. Later in the model year, Rivian says it will offer a removable roof panel.
Meridian’s Elevation 360-degree audio includes a 1,400-watt amp and 20 speakers, plus proprietary technology such as Horizon upmixing, Intelli-Q data-driven equalization, and RE-Q cabin resonance filtering. The system also includes a removable Bluetooth speaker for playing music outside the R1S.
Additional standard equipment for the electric SUV includes heated and ventilated front seats, perforated vegan leather upholstery, passenger lumbar adjustment, Compass Yellow interior accents, 100% recycled microfiber headliner, and Chilewich floor mats.
A 60-month loan for $91,145 with no money down and 3% financing brings the monthly payment to $1,638, or $99 more than the Explore. Find a 2022 Rivian R1S Adventure for sale
2022 Rivian R1S Adventure includes:
Meridian Elevation 360° audio – With 1,400 watts and 20 strategically placed speakers, including four titanium dome speakers overhead, this sound system turns the R1S interior into a sound studio.
Ventilated front seats – Help keep your backside cool when the temperature outside gets warm.
Passenger lumbar support – Provides lower back support just like the driver’s seat.
Forest Edge interior color – Looks elegant with sustainably sourced dark wood accents and has an earthy, forest-like feel befitting a green SUV.
2022 Rivian R1S Launch Edition (sold out)
This special edition R1S Launch Edition has already sold out, but if you’re curious, it is simply the Adventure model with special paint, badging, and a choice of 20- or 22-inch wheels.
Cox Automotive, parent company of Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader, is a minority investor in Rivian.
