Doug DeMuro gives the 2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor a solidly positive review with an OctaneScore of 79/100, praising its exceptional performance and innovative driving technology. The quad motor setup delivers over 1,025 horsepower with a 2.6-second 0-60 time and Kick Turn functionality for tight off-road maneuvers, while the cabin impresses with a massive central touchscreen, deep storage solutions, and premium materials like quilted leather throughout. The main drawback is value, as the quad motor version starts above $120,000 and DeMuro notes it's "over the top" for what most Rivian buyers actually want, which is straightforward family transportation rather than extreme performance. The R1S Quad is best suited for buyers who prioritize cutting-edge tech, off-road capability, and raw speed over cost-consciousness.

TheStraightPipes gave the 2025 Rivian R1S a mixed review with an OctaneScore of 56/100, praising its exceptional design and performance but raising concerns about value. The standout strengths are its stunning interior materials comparable to Mercedes and peak Volvo, responsive steering that's "sickeningly fast," and impressive 0-60 performance under 3 seconds with 850 horsepower—plus practical touches like the onboard air compressor for trail adjustments and innovative features such as the chromatic blocking sunroof. However, the $174,600 price tag (for the reviewed model) scores a flat zero for value, and some reliability quirks emerged, including a luxury-undermining vibration from the air suspension compressor that affects the steering wheel. The R1S is best suited for affluent buyers seeking a high-performance electric SUV with standout design and off-road capability, though they'll need to justify the premium pricing against competitors like Tesla and GM's offerings.

Auto Buyers Guide gave the 2023 Rivian R1S Dual Motor a strong positive review with an OctaneScore of 74/100, praising its exceptional efficiency (2.08 mi/kWh), quick 0-60 time of 3.45 seconds, and distinctive design with smart features like color-changing LED headlights that indicate charging status. The cabin technology and materials have held up well, and the adaptive air suspension with off-road capability make it standout in the three-row EV segment, though the high frunk load-in height and reliability quirks like an unreliable power hatch present minor concerns. At $83,000 for the Dual Motor Performance model, the R1S is significantly more expensive than competing options like the Kia EV9, positioning it for buyers seeking a premium, capable family electric SUV who prioritize performance and design over value.

Auto Buyers Guide's review of the 2025 Rivian R1S is overwhelmingly positive, earning a 98/100 OctaneScore with zero negative highlights. The vehicle excels in design and driving technology, featuring a distinctive square silhouette that stands out in the EV space, upgraded Matrix LED headlights that avoid blinding oncoming traffic, and 360-degree camera views with eight times the pixel density of previous models. Cabin technology and performance are equally impressive, with an intuitive infotainment-controlled steering wheel and a new tri-motor option alongside dual and quad configurations, with the standard dual-motor LFP delivering 533 horsepower and 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The R1S is ideal for buyers seeking a premium three-row electric SUV with generous cargo capacity, advanced technology, and improved efficiency through in-house motor manufacturing and reduced wiring complexity.