Top 5 Rivian R1S vs R1T Differences
Introduction
The electric-vehicle (EV) revolution has reached a point where adventure‑ready EVs are no longer a novelty; they are everyday options for people who want to haul gear to a trailhead, shuttle kids to school and still have fun on road‑trip weekends. Rivian, a U.S. startup launched in 2009, tapped into that desire with the R1S three‑row SUV and R1T pickup. Both vehicles sit on the same skateboard platform and share much of their technology, yet the R1S and R1T serve very different needs. Understanding those differences is essential for buyers who want an EV that fits their lifestyle.
This in‑depth comparison examines the vehicles’ shared architecture, size and off‑road geometry, cargo solutions, performance and range options, technology and comfort, pricing and incentives and ultimately helps you decide which model aligns with your needs. Links to FrediTech articles provide additional context on car‑related gadgets like premium audio systems and phone holders that can complement your Rivian experience. The article concludes with frequently asked questions addressing common search queries.
Shared DNA: Platform, Motors and Suspension
Rivian engineered the R1S and R1T on the same underlying “skateboard” platform, so the vehicles share motors, battery packs, suspension hardware and much of the front‑cabin architecture. MotorTrend reports that both models use an all‑electric four‑motor drivetrain where each wheel is powered individually; the combined output is 835 horsepower and 908 lb‑ft of torquemotortrend.com. This design allows precise control over each wheel, giving both vehicles exceptional traction off‑road and sure‑footed handling on pavement. Rivian plans to offer a less expensive dual‑motor option (two motors rather than four) but, at the time of writing, four motors are standardmotortrend.com.
Both vehicles share three battery sizes – Standard, Large and Max – though availability may vary by model. The Standard battery offers about 270 miles of estimated range for both R1S and R1Tcarsdirect.com. The Large pack raises range to roughly 329 to 330 miles, while the Max pack aims for around 410 miles in the R1S and 420 miles in the R1Tcarsdirect.com. EPA ratings are slightly higher for the R1S due to its more aerodynamic shape; MotorTrend notes that the Large battery yields an EPA estimate of 316 miles for the R1S and 314 miles for the R1T.
The shared air‑suspension system adjusts ride height for comfort, efficiency or off‑road clearance. Green Car Reports’ first‑drive of the 2023 R1S explains that the suspension can be raised to 15 inches of ground clearance or lowered to 9.5 inches to improve range, with intermediate settings selected through a 15.6‑inch central touchscreengreencarreports.com. Drivers can also adjust ride stiffness (soft or firm), regenerative‑braking strength (high or standard) and stability‑control aggressiveness. These settings are identical on both models because the vehicles use the same suspension hardware.
Motors and Battery Configurations
The powertrain lineup is similar but not identical between the two models. CarsDirect notes that the 2026 R1T Dual Standard and Dual trims use dual motors delivering 533 horsepower and 655 horsepower, respectivelycarsdirect.com. A Tri‑Motor version with three motors makes up to 850 horsepower, while the Quad‑Motor flagship produces 1,205 horsepower and accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds. The R1S adopts the same configurations: dual‑motor trims rated at 533 hp and 665 hp, a tri‑motor rated at 850 hp and a quad‑motor rated at 1,205 hp. Thanks to identical weight and drivetrain layouts, the R1S and R1T deliver comparable acceleration and braking performance. The difference in acceleration times (2.5–4.5 sec) mostly depends on battery size and wheel choicecarsdirect.com.
Suspension and Tech Features
From the front seats forward, the two vehicles are indistinguishable. MotorTrend notes that each model provides a large frunk (front trunk) and the same dash layout with a 15.6‑inch central touchscreen for infotainment and vehicle settingsmotortrend.com. Both cabins also include an 11.8‑inch digital instrument cluster and a panoramic sunroof that unfortunately lacks a physical sunshade. Software features such as the regenerative‑braking modes, drive‑mode selection and air‑suspension controls reside within the central screen, and both vehicles currently lack Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration, although Bluetooth and Rivian’s in‑house navigation are standard. Safety equipment includes driver‑assistance features like pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind‑spot monitoring, lane‑keeping assist and adaptive cruise controlcarsdirect.com.
Size and Dimensions: Wheelbase, Length and Turning Radius
Beyond their shared platform, the biggest differentiators between the R1S and R1T are their size and configuration. The R1T is a pickup truck with a five‑seat cab and a cargo bed, while the R1S is a three‑row SUV capable of seating up to seven passengers. Green Car Reports explains that the R1S is 16.3 inches shorter in overall length and has a wheelbase that’s 14.6 inches shorter than the R1Tgreencarreports.com. That shorter wheelbase makes the R1S more maneuverable: MotorTrend points out that the SUV’s turning circle is almost four feet smaller, making tight parking and off‑road switchbacks easier.
The shorter wheelbase does impact ride quality. In back‑to‑back drives, Green Car Reports found that the R1S exhibits slightly more hop on pavement and more body lean when cornering compared with the R1Tgreencarreports.com. Choosing the Firm suspension setting and Sport mode mitigates some of the bounce. Because both models share double‑wishbone front and multi‑link rear suspensions, off‑road articulation is impressive and ride comfort remains excellent compared with other three‑row SUVs. The R1S’s shorter rear overhang also improves its departure angle to 34.3 degrees and its breakover angle to 29.6 degrees, compared with the R1T’s 30.0‑degree departure and 26.4‑degree breakover angles; the improvements matter when cresting steep hills or descending rocky slopes.
Seating Capacity and Cabin Layout
The R1S offers three rows of seating. MotorTrend notes that the third row is comfortable and includes USB ports and dedicated air‑conditioning outletsmotortrend.com. Accessing the third row requires adults to squeeze past the rear wheel well because the SUV’s wheelbase is shorter; Rivian includes five LATCH points for child seats across the second and third rows, making the R1S family‑friendly. When all seven seats are occupied, cargo space behind the third row measures 17.6 cu ft. Folding the third row increases cargo space to 48.6 cu ft, and folding the second row yields 90.7 cu ft.
The R1T seats five and uses the extra length for a 4.5‑foot cargo bed and unique storage compartments. Rivian’s comparison site lists the cargo bed dimensions as 54.2 × 51.1 × 18.3 inches with the tailgate closed and a bed length of 83.9 inches with the gate down. The bed provides 29.2 cu ft of storage. In addition, the pickup has an enclosed gear tunnel behind the cab that offers 11.7 cu ft of volume; its doors double as steps or seats and can hold optional accessories like the Gear Shuttle sliding platform and Camp Kitchen with a cooktop and sinkmotortrend.com. The R1T’s total enclosed interior storage (cabin plus frunk plus gear tunnel) measures 59.9 cu ft, whereas the R1S’s total interior storage is 105.8 cu ft. The difference underscores how the SUV is better for carrying passengers and bulky cargo under cover, while the truck emphasizes gear hauling and modular accessories.
Off‑Road Geometry and Water Fording
Both Rivian models offer serious off‑road capability thanks to the four‑motor torque vectoring, adjustable air suspension and clever software. The R1S’s shorter length improves its departure angle (34.3°) and breakover angle (29.6°) relative to the R1T’s 30.0° and 26.4°, respectivelygreencarreports.com. The R1T has a longer wheelbase, which slightly reduces its agility on tight trails but provides a smoother ride on highway sectionsmotortrend.com. Both vehicles can ford more than three feet of water, though water crossings require caution to protect electrical systems.
Cargo and Utility: Gear Tunnel vs Cabin
Cargo space and utility are decisive factors when choosing between the R1S and the R1T. This section breaks down the cargo solutions, towing capacity and payload capabilities of both models.
R1T: Versatile Bed, Gear Tunnel and Accessories
The R1T pickup caters to outdoors enthusiasts who need flexible cargo solutions. Rivian’s comparison table shows that the cargo bed measures 54.2 inches long and 51.1 inches wide with 18.3 inches of depth. Lowering the tailgate extends length to 83.9 inches, making it easier to carry bikes, kayaks or lumber. With the gate closed, the bed provides 29.2 cubic feet of space. The gear tunnel adds 11.7 cu ft of sealed storage accessible from both sides of the truck. MotorTrend highlights how the gear tunnel doors double as steps to reach the bed and can support optional accessories such as the Gear Shuttle sliding platform and the Camp Kitchen complete with an electric cooktop, sink and prep surfacesmotortrend.com. An optional power tonneau cover encloses the bed; buttons inside and outside the truck deploy or retract metal slats, protecting cargo from weather.
Towing and payload capacity are another area where the R1T stands out. CarsDirect states that the 2026 R1T can tow up to 11,000 pounds and carry a maximum payload of 1,764 poundscarsdirect.com. Those figures match or exceed many full‑size gas trucks. However, towing heavy loads significantly reduces driving range, especially with the Standard battery pack, so long trips may require careful planning.
R1S: Enclosed Cargo and Flexible Seating
The R1S SUV trades the open bed and gear tunnel for an enclosed cabin with flexible seating. When the third row is upright, cargo space behind it measures 17.6 cu ft—enough for groceries or weekend bags. Folding the third row yields 48.6 cu ft, while folding both the second and third rows expands cargo volume to 90.7 cu ft. That’s more cargo capacity than many mid‑size SUVs. The R1S’s total interior storage is 105.8 cu ft, thanks partly to a larger rear under‑floor compartment. However, the SUV lacks a gear tunnel; long items must be stowed inside or on the roof.
Towing capacity for the R1S tops out at 7,700 pounds, with a payload rating of 1,764 pounds—enough for small trailers or boats but well below the R1T’s capabilitycarsdirect.com. Rivian acknowledges that towing affects range and recommends using its trip‑planning software to locate charging stations.
Performance and Range: Speed, Driving Modes and Battery Options
Performance comparisons help illustrate how each vehicle handles daily driving, road trips and off‑road adventures.
Acceleration and Horsepower
Although they share hardware, the R1T and R1S differ slightly in available motor configurations and tuning. CarsDirect lists four power levels for the R1T:
- Dual Standard – dual motors producing 533 hp with a 0–60 mph time around 4.5 sec.
- Dual – dual motors tuned for 655 hp and slightly quicker acceleration.
- Tri‑Motor – three motors delivering 850 hp.
- Quad‑Motor – four motors producing 1,205 hp and a 0–60 mph time of about 2.5 sec.
The R1S follows the same formula: dual‑motor trims rated at 533 hp and 665 hp, a tri‑motor rated at 850 hp, and a quad‑motor flagship rated at 1,205 hp. Because the two vehicles weigh roughly the same and share powertrains, acceleration differences are negligible. MotorTrend remarks that both vehicles “are equally quick to accelerate and stop”.
Battery Packs and Range
The Standard battery pack provides 270 miles of estimated range for both models. The Large pack increases range to 329 miles for the R1S and 330 miles for the R1T. The Max pack aims for around 410 miles in the R1S and 420 miles in the R1T. MotorTrend notes that current EPA figures for the Large pack are 316 miles for the R1S and 314 miles for the R1Tmotortrend.com. In real‑world testing with a Large‑pack R1S on 34‑inch all‑terrain tires, Green Car Reports recorded an estimated range of 274 milesgreencarreports.com.
Range is affected by wheel size, payload, weather and driving mode. Both vehicles offer drive modes such as Conserve, Snow, All‑Purpose, Sport and Off‑Road, each adjusting suspension height and power distribution. Drivers can also select Rally and Rock Crawl settings within Off‑Road mode. Green Car Reports notes that the driver can manually fine‑tune ride quality (Firm or Soft), regenerative braking (High or Standard) and stability control (On, Reduced or Off) through the infotainment system. The ability to customize these settings helps optimize range or performance depending on conditions.
Real‑World Example
During a five‑day Rocky Mountain road trip, Green Car Reports drove a Quad‑Motor R1S with a Large battery and 20‑inch wheels. Starting at 84 percent charge with 188 miles remaining, the author monitored range manually because Rivian doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integrationgreencarreports.com. The trip included elevation gains of 1,700 feet and weather ranging from heat to rain. After 188 miles, the driver arrived with 25 percent battery remaining (about 80 miles), showing that Rivian’s range estimates align closely with real‑world conditions. The author also noted that the vehicle charged at 11.5 kw on a 240‑volt home charger (adding about 25 miles of range per hour) and reached 95 percent on a public DC fast charger in 45 minutes, adding 42.3 kw of energygreencarreports.com.
Interior and Technology: Comfort, Infotainment and Safety
Cabin Quality and Seating
The R1T and R1S share a cabin design that blends durable materials with modern technology. MotorTrend observes that the front seats and dashboard are identical on both models, featuring a 15.6‑inch touchscreen that controls most functions and a large frunk for extra storagemotortrend.com. The panoramic roof floods the cabin with light, but because it lacks a physical sunshade some drivers may find it difficult to block midday sun. Rivian uses synthetic leather and real wood trim to convey a premium feel without relying on animal hides.
The R1S’s third row is usable even for adults on shorter trips; passengers enjoy dedicated USB charging ports and air‑conditioning vents. However, MotorTrend notes that accessing the third row requires squeezing past the second row and rear wheel well due to the shorter wheelbasemotortrend.com. Child‑safety LATCH anchors are abundant—five points across the second and third rows—making the R1S family‑friendly. When the third row isn’t needed, it folds flat to create a large, level cargo floor.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Both models rely on Rivian’s custom operating system for navigation, media and vehicle settings. Green Car Reports emphasizes that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available, so drivers must rely on Rivian’s built‑in mapping and streaming services. The interface is intuitive and includes a customizable instrument cluster, surround‑view cameras and off‑road displays. Safety features such as forward‑collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane‑keeping assist, blind‑spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control are standardcarsdirect.com. Additional driver‑assistance functions such as a semi‑autonomous Highway Assist system may be activated via software updates in the future.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Both vehicles come with heated and ventilated front seats, dual‑zone climate control, a hands‑free Bluetooth interface and multiple 120‑V outlets in the cabin. The R1T offers four 120‑V outlets, while some R1S trims include two. An available camp mode uses the air suspension to level the vehicle and maintain cabin climate during overnight stays; a camp courtesy feature dims exterior lights and reduces fan noise so occupants can sleep in the vehicle comfortably. These features make both the R1S and R1T appealing to adventurers who prefer camping over hotels.
For audio enthusiasts, consider complementing your Rivian with a premium sound system or phone‑mount accessory. FrediTech’s guides on the best car audio systems of 2025 and the ultimate phone holder for your car offer detailed reviews and buying tips. These links provide trustworthy product recommendations that align with Rivian’s technology‑forward ethos.
Pricing, Value and Incentives
MSRP and Trim Pricing
As of the 2026 model year, the R1T is the more affordable choice. CarsDirect reports that the 2026 R1T’s prices (including a $1,895 destination charge) start at $72,885 for the Dual Standard, $79,885 for the Dual Large, $86,885 for the Dual Max and $102,885 for the Tri‑Max trim. The upcoming Quad‑Motor variant’s pricing is unconfirmed but will exceed these figures. In comparison, the 2026 R1S’s pricing starts at $78,885 for the Dual Standard, $85,885 for the Dual Large, $92,885 for the Dual Max and $107,795 for the Tri‑Maxcarsdirect.com. CarsDirect notes that the R1S is approximately $6,000 more expensive than the R1T across similar trims.
Leasing and Tax Incentives
Rivian vehicles currently do not qualify for the U.S. federal tax credit when purchased outright, but CarsDirect highlights a leasing loophole that allows the company to apply the commercial clean vehicle tax credit to leasescarsdirect.com. As a result, Rivian can discount leases, and 2026 R1S leases have been offered at similar monthly payments to R1T leases despite the higher MSRP. Buyers should check for regional incentives, as state and local programs may provide additional savings.
Cost of Ownership
Electric vehicles generally offer lower running costs than comparable combustion trucks and SUVs because electricity is cheaper per mile and there is no need for oil changes. Rivian includes an 8‑year/175,000‑mile battery warranty and a 5‑year/60,000‑mile basic warranty. Insurance costs may be higher due to the vehicles’ premium status and advanced technology, and replacement parts such as sensors and cameras could increase repair bills after a collision. Prospective buyers should consult insurance carriers for quotes based on their driving history.
Which Should You Choose? Practical Scenarios
Selecting between the R1S and R1T depends on how you plan to use your electric adventure vehicle. The following scenarios illustrate which model may suit particular lifestyles:
- Family hauling and enclosed cargo: If you regularly transport more than five people or require secure, weather‑proof cargo space, the R1S is the better choice. Its three‑row cabin can seat seven, and with the second and third rows folded it offers 90.7 cu ft of flat cargo space. This makes it ideal for family road trips, ski weekends or moving furniture without renting a trailer.
- Gear‑focused adventuring and towing: If you need to haul bikes, kayaks, home‑improvement supplies or a heavy trailer, the R1T pickup excels. The truck’s 29.2 cu ft bed, 11.7 cu ft gear tunnel and 11,000‑pound towing rating allow owners to transport gear that won’t fit inside an SUVcarsdirect.com. Optional accessories like the Camp Kitchen turn the gear tunnel into a fully functional cooking station.
- Urban maneuverability and tight spaces: For city dwellers or off‑roaders who value agility, the R1S offers a smaller turning circle because of its shorter wheelbase. Navigating parking garages or tight switchbacks is easier in the SUV. However, the R1T’s longer wheelbase yields a smoother ride at highway speeds.
- Budget considerations: The R1T is about $6,000 cheaper than the R1S in equivalent trimscarsdirect.com. Buyers who do not need a third row or enclosed cargo can save money by choosing the pickup and still enjoy nearly all the same technology and performance.
- Off‑road enthusiasts: Both vehicles share the same motors, suspension and drive modes, but the R1S’s better departure and breakover angles provide an edge on steep trails. The R1T’s longer wheelbase and lower departure angle require caution on sharp inclines, though its open bed can accommodate bulky off‑road gear.
Top 5 Differences Summary
|
Difference |
Rivian R1T
(Truck) |
Rivian R1S
(SUV) |
|
Length &
Wheelbase |
Longer overall length and wheelbase; smoother ride; larger turning
circle |
Shorter by 16.3 inches with a 14.6‑inch shorter wheelbase; more
agile with tighter turning radius |
|
Seating & Cargo |
Seats five; 4.5‑ft bed
(54.2 × 51.1 × 18.3 in) with 29.2 cu ft of
volume; 11.7 cu ft gear tunnel; total interior
storage 59.9 cu ft |
Seats seven; cargo volumes:
17.6 cu ft (third row up), 48.6 cu ft (third row folded),
90.7 cu ft (second row folded); total interior
storage 105.8 cu ft |
|
Towing &
Payload |
Tow rating up to 11,000 lb and 1,764 lb payload |
Tow rating up to 7,700 lb with the same 1,764 lb payload
capacity |
|
Off‑road Geometry |
Lower departure (30.0°) and
breakover (26.4°) angles; longer wheelbase offers stability |
Better departure (34.3°) and
breakover (29.6°) angles due to shorter overhangs |
|
Price |
2026 model starts at $72,885; top trim $102,885 |
2026 model starts at $78,885; top trim $107,795 |
Conclusion
Rivian’s R1S and R1T are two sides of the same electric‑adventure coin. Both deliver astonishing power (up to 1,205 hp) and torque with four‑motor all‑wheel drive, adjustable air suspension and sophisticated software. They share the same skateboard platform, battery options and front‑cabin design. The key differences lie behind the B‑pillar: the R1T provides an open bed, gear tunnel and higher towing capacity, while the R1S offers more enclosed cargo space, seating for seven and a shorter wheelbase that improves maneuverability.
Choosing between them depends on whether your lifestyle leans toward hauling gear and towing heavy loads (R1T) or transporting people and valuing enclosed cargo (R1S). The R1S costs about $6,000 more per trim but rewards buyers with greater interior volume and slightly better off‑road geometry. Both vehicles make everyday driving fun, safe and eco‑friendly. With Rivian’s planned expansion of its Adventure charging network and future software updates, either model will deliver years of zero‑tailpipe‑emission adventure. For more car‑gadget insights, explore FrediTech’s guides on premium car audio systems and smartphone holders to enhance your Rivian experience.