2021 Rivian R1S

Rivian is a comparatively new manufacturer that produces electric pickup trucks and SUVs. Our tests found its EVs to be comfortable, startlingly fast, and very capable off-road. Range is practical and competitive with similarly-priced vehicles. Its vehicles come with lots of cargo room, including deep front trunks and a horizontal pass-through “Gear Tunnel” in some of the pickup truck models. Drawbacks include screen-centric controls for essential functions, including adjusting air vents, and an aggressive regenerative braking system that makes its vehicles difficult to drive smoothly. Rivian usually ranks near the bottom of our predicted reliability rating, but near the top in our owner satisfaction surveys.

Rivian is an American startup company just launched an upscale, R1S three-row electric SUV. Starting at $70,000 before the federal tax credit, the R1S is priced like a luxury SUV. It gets a claimed 300-400 mile range, depending on various battery sizes. Rivian also claims 0-60 mph acceleration in a brisk 3 seconds, and traction that adjusts to road conditions, useful for snow or off-road excursions. The interior is uncluttered and the seats use synthetic leather. A front trunk adds cargo space. Advanced safety and driver assist systems are standard. Delivery to customers started in late summer 2022.