2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor Review
The 2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor is the most powerful version of Rivian’s electric SUV lineup. This updated model now produces more than 1,000 horsepower, gets major performance upgrades, and adds new off-road technology. While the price now touches around 125,000 dollars, the R1S Quad Motor delivers performance and features that very few SUVs on the planet can match.
Price and Variants
The Rivian R1S lineup now consists of three motor configurations. The Quad Motor sits at the top with extreme performance.
Rivian R1S Pricing Overview
| Variant | Power Output | 0 to 60 mph | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dual Motor | Up to 665 hp | Around 4.5 sec | Around 80,000 dollars |
| Tri Motor | Around 850 hp | Quicker than older Quad Motor | Higher than Dual Motor |
| Quad Motor (2026) | 1,025 hp | 2.6 sec | Around 125,000 dollars |
Key points:
The base Dual Motor is still powerful and fast.
The Tri Motor now beats the previous Quad Motor in raw horsepower.
The new Quad Motor is the flagship with supercar-grade acceleration.
Performance and Range
The biggest update for 2026 is the new Quad Motor drivetrain.
Performance Highlights
1,025 horsepower
0 to 60 mph in 2.66 seconds
Same 0 to 60 time as a Corvette Z06
Quarter mile in about 10.5 seconds at 128 mph
Faster than Hellcats, Corvettes, and most supercars
One of the fastest SUVs ever produced
Range
Rivian claims about 350 miles of driving range.
Dimensions and Weight
Length: Around 200 inches (similar to Ford Explorer)
Weight: Just under 7,000 pounds
Three row, family friendly SUV
Major New Features for 2026
The updated R1S comes with several new technologies that extend its capability and usability. These include Kick Turn, Rad Tuner, and Launch Control.
Kick Turn
Kick Turn allows the R1S to rotate almost in place. This feature is designed for off-roading where tight switchbacks are common.
How Kick Turn Works
Accessed through the off-road driving menu.
A mascot graphic appears with a switch to activate Kick Turn.
The small Easter egg lets you spin the mascot until he gets dizzy and throws up.
Direction is selected using steering wheel buttons.
Activated using the accelerator pedal.
Key Differences vs Mercedes G580
The R1S can perform Kick Turn while moving up to 10 mph.
Works only on loose surfaces, not on pavement.
Rivian says it is meant to be functional, not a party trick.
Rad Tuner
Rad Tuner is one of the most customizable drive mode systems available in any production SUV.
Adjustable Parameters
Drivetrain bias (full rear wheel drive to full front wheel drive)
Wheel slip levels
Regenerative braking strength
Suspension damping settings
Multiple presets that users can name and save
Rad Tuner lets the driver create a personal drive mode for racetracks, trails, or daily driving.
Launch Control
Launch Control is now part of the updated R1S.
Activated through Sport mode.
Shows coaching instructions in the gauge cluster.
Helps achieve the fastest acceleration times.
Note: All these new systems are hardware dependent, so older R1S models will not receive them through over-the-air updates.
Exterior Design and Features
The R1S retains its boxy, rugged shape which matches current SUV trends. The design continues to receive positive feedback, although the oval headlights remain a polarizing detail.
Key Exterior Elements
Boxy lifestyle-oriented body style
Flush door handles that pop out when unlocked
Hidden front charge port door
New sweeping front turn signal animation
New wheel designs for the updated model
Carabiner key that fits Rivian’s adventure theme
Lock Sound Feature
When you lock the R1S:
Daytime lock sound is a soft bird chirp.
Nighttime lock sound resembles an owl.
This avoids the typical loud horn honk and feels more natural and less disruptive.
Visual Differences for Quad Motor
The Quad Motor version surprisingly looks almost identical to the lower trims.
Small distinguishing elements:
Gear Guard mascot badge
R1S badge with a tiny quad marking
Blue brake calipers (mostly hidden)
There is no major visual upgrade that signals the performance difference. For a vehicle costing over 120,000 dollars, this is unusual.
Interior Quality and Features
The cabin continues to be one of the major strengths of the R1S. Rivian blends toughness, luxury, and modern EV design.
Interior Highlights
High quality natural wood trim across the dashboard
Quilted leather seats with two tone finish
Plaid style floor mats that look premium
Stylish two tone steering wheel with wood inserts
Cabin feel that matches luxury SUVs, though slightly below the highest Range Rover levels
The R1S strikes a balance between premium feel and off-road practicality.
Driving Experience
The new Quad Motor delivers extreme acceleration, smooth power delivery, and balanced handling despite the SUV’s massive weight. Combined with fully adjustable drive dynamics, the R1S can function as:
A high performance SUV
A capable off-roader
A comfortable family car
A luxury daily driver
It is this combination that has made the R1S one of the most impressive electric SUVs on the market.
Verdict
The 2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor is a complete package. It offers:
Supercar level performance
Three row practicality
Advanced off-road technology
A premium interior
Unique and fun quirks
Strong real world usability
The price is high, and Rivian surprisingly does not visually differentiate the Quad Motor variant. However, the performance, technology, and versatility justify why this continues to be one of the most talked-about electric SUVs.
If you are looking for a luxury EV SUV that can do almost everything, the updated R1S lineup is among the strongest options available.
2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor FAQ
What is the price of the 2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor?
The 2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor is priced around 125,000 dollars. It is the top variant in the R1S lineup and comes with the highest performance output.
How much horsepower does the 2026 R1S Quad Motor produce?
The updated R1S Quad Motor produces 1,025 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful electric SUVs available today.
How fast is the 2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor?
It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 2.66 seconds and completes the quarter mile in about 10.5 seconds at 128 mph. Its performance is comparable to supercars.
What is the driving range of the 2026 R1S Quad Motor?
Rivian claims that the updated Quad Motor model offers around 350 miles of driving range on a full charge.
What is Kick Turn in the Rivian R1S?
Kick Turn is an off-road feature that lets the R1S rotate almost in place on loose surfaces. It helps drivers navigate tight trails and switchbacks with ease.
How does Kick Turn work on the R1S?
Kick Turn is activated through the off-road menu. The driver selects the direction, and the system uses the motors to help rotate the vehicle at low speeds on loose terrain.
What is Rad Tuner in the 2026 Rivian R1S?
Rad Tuner is a highly customizable drive mode system that lets drivers adjust parameters like drivetrain bias, wheel slip, regenerative braking, and suspension damping. It allows users to save personalized driving presets.
Does the 2026 R1S Quad Motor have launch control?
Yes, the updated model includes launch control. It can be activated in Sport mode and gives the driver on-screen guidance to achieve the quickest acceleration runs.
Are the new Quad Motor features available on older R1S models?
No. Rivian says the new features depend on updated hardware, so older models will not receive these upgrades through over-the-air updates.
What are the main visual differences in the 2026 R1S Quad Motor?
The Quad Motor version looks very similar to the lower trims. Small details like the Gear Guard badge, a tiny quad marking, and blue brake calipers help identify it.
How is the interior of the 2026 Rivian R1S?
The interior features premium wood trim, quilted leather, a two tone steering wheel, and high quality materials. It maintains a luxury feel while staying practical for adventure use.
What is the length and weight of the Rivian R1S?
The R1S is about 200 inches long, similar to a Ford Explorer, and weighs just under 7,000 pounds. It also offers three rows of seating.
Does the Rivian R1S have special lock sounds?
Yes. Rivian uses soft nature-inspired lock sounds. During the day it sounds like a bird chirp, and at night it sounds like an owl. This avoids loud honking noises.
