Rivian R1S I (2022 – 2025)

Reliability score : 7.5/10

The first-generation Rivian R1S is a large luxury electric SUV (up to 7 seats) based on the same "skateboard" platform as the R1T pickup. Designed to offer exceptional off-road capabilities while maintaining high-level on-road behavior, it is positioned as a direct rival to the Tesla Model X, with a much more "adventure" oriented approach and superior interior space. Although the first units (2022-2023) suffered from teething problems typical of a new manufacturer (body panel alignments, software bugs), reliability data shows a clear improvement in build quality on the 2024-2025 models. The electric motors prove to be very robust and the vehicle benefits from continuous improvements via over-the-air (OTA) software updates. Note: the native adoption of the NACS charging port (Tesla standard

✅ Strengths

Gigantic interior space (7 real seats) and very large front trunk (frunk)
Exceptional off-road capabilities (adjustable air suspension)
Extremely robust and high-performance electric motors
Frequent, useful software updates (OTA) that genuinely improve the vehicle
Reassuring battery warranty: 8 years / 175,000 km
Compatibility with the NACS (Tesla) network integrated from 2025

⚠️ Weaknesses

Uneven build quality on 2022-2023 models (rattles, body panel alignments)
High power consumption due to aerodynamics and massive weight
Physical service center network still in development
Extremely high body repair costs in the event of a collision
Overall reliability below average according to J.D. Power (IQS 2023) and Consumer Reports, mainly due to teething problems

🎯 Verdict

The Rivian R1S is a family electric SUV with extraordinary capabilities, combining the space of a large minivan with the aptitudes of a true 4x4. The electric motors and battery (8-year / 175,000 km warranty) are reliable. However, as the brand is young, the 2022 and 2023 models suffered teething problems with numerous recalls (assembly, fasteners, software bugs). The 2024 and 2025 models show significantly higher quality, and the arrival of the NACS port in 2025 is a major asset. Buying a used 2022-2023 model requires a scrupulous check of the recall history and tire wear.

Common issues

Défaillance ou décharge rapide de la batterie 12V auxiliaire Medium

🔧 10 000 – 40 000 km

💶 200 – 500 € (hors garantie)

Vérifier les rappels et mises à jour logicielles pour optimiser la gestion de charge.

Dysfonctionnements logiciels (infodivertissement, ADAS, gestion de charge) Low

🔧 Dès l'achat – 50 000 km

💶 Souvent résolu par mises à jour OTA ou sous garantie

S'assurer que le véhicule a les dernières mises à jour logicielles installées.

Problèmes avec le système de suspension pneumatique (compresseur, capteurs) Medium

🔧 30 000 – 70 000 km

💶 1 500 – 4 000 €

Tester les différentes hauteurs de suspension et écouter les bruits anormaux.

Anomalies du système de charge (lenteur, interruption, port de charge) Medium

🔧 15 000 – 50 000 km

💶 500 – 2 500 €

Tester la charge sur différentes bornes (AC et DC) avant l'achat.

Estimated maintenance costs

Complete brakes	£350 – 750
Estimated annual budget	£450 – 900

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.