10,000 Miles With the Rivian R1T Tri-Motor: A Real-World Review
I have a bad habit of trying to do Toyota Tacoma things in my R1T
When Rivian launched the second-generation R1T with a Tri-Motor configuration, it signaled more than just a drivetrain update. It marked a refinement of the brand's identity. The new setup promised more torque, upgraded tech, and subtle but significant improvements over the original Quad-Motor model.
As someone who racks up mileage quickly, I put 10,000 miles on this truck in just 142 days. It has not had an easy life. It is my workhorse, my weekend escape pod, and my rolling lab for mods, gear, and real-world EV testing.
Here is what I have learned from using the Rivian R1T Tri-Motor in everyday life, not the kind with curated lighting or gentle pavement.
From Quad to Tri: Why I Switched
My previous R1T was a Gen 1 Quad-Motor. It delivered incredible performance but came with its share of service tickets. By the time I was approaching 60,000 miles, the warranty clock was ticking and issues were piling up.
Enter the Tri-Motor.
With 850 horsepower and 1,103 lb-ft of torque, it offers slightly more power than the Quad. It feels a bit less aggressive in daily driving unless you switch into Sport or Launch mode. In those settings, the acceleration is borderline ridiculous, especially for a truck that weighs nearly four tons with my gear loaded.
Power was not the only reason I upgraded. The second-generation hardware includes newer ECUs, updated systems, and a more refined interior. It is better suited for long-term ownership. After calculating the tax benefits for business use, the math made sense.
Range and Efficiency: Real-World Numbers That Matter
Rivian advertises up to 410 miles on the dual-motor Max Pack and around 380 miles on the Tri-Motor. Real-world range drops once you add weight, drag, and aggressive tires.
With the Super Pacific camper, recovery gear, and larger Toyo Open Country A/T III EV tires, I see about a 15 percent reduction from stock. That puts my usable range around:
265 to 275 miles in All-Purpose mode
300 to 310 miles in Conserve mode
These are solid numbers for a truck of this size and use. Real-world range depends on more than battery size. Terrain, payload, tire compound, and wind conditions all play a part.
I rarely use Conserve mode except for long highway trips. It improves range slightly but sends all power to the front motors. That can cause extra front tire wear. All-Purpose mode offers the best balance for everyday driving and efficiency.
Charging at home is easy with a JuiceBox Level 2 charger. I have also used Rivian's Adventure Network and Tesla Superchargers without issue.
Ride and Handling: Heavy but Nimble
The Tri-Motor R1T is heavy, especially with a camper and full loadout. Despite that, it handles well. The air suspension and torque vectoring make it feel planted and in control. It rides quietly, even with aggressive all-terrain tires.
Off-road, it performs better than expected. I have driven it through dunes, snow, and backwoods trails without hesitation. I am not into extreme rock crawling, but for overlanding and trail runs, it handles confidently.
I had one serious self-recovery after sliding into a ditch late at night. A downed log had me stuck. It took over an hour to dig and reposition for a way out. That moment reminded me to never go out alone without recovery gear. It also confirmed that I need to install a winch.
Service and Support: A Mixed Bag, Mostly Positive
I had issues from the start. A tire pressure sensor threw an error before I even got on the freeway. The alignment was also off, which seems common for Rivians.
That said, Rivian's Seattle Service Center has been excellent. The staff is clear, helpful, and proactive. They offered loaners and handled every problem with care, even during holiday rushes.
Compared to my Gen 1 experience, service has improved a lot. It is not perfect. There are still part delays and limited appointment slots. But things are trending in the right direction.
Utility and Daily Use: A Truck That Works
The R1T is more than a cool electric truck. It is my mobile office. As a real estate media professional, I drive hundreds of miles a week with sensitive gear. The truck’s storage setup, with its frunk, gear tunnel, and bed, works well for my needs.
The Super Pacific camper turns it into a full overland setup. Add in recovery tools, the EV Sportline tool chest, and upgraded tires, and this truck is ready for anything.
Modifications: What Works, What Doesn’t
What I Added:
Super Pacific Camper: durable and built for hard use
Toyo Open Country A/T III EV Tires: low noise and great traction
Matte Paint Protection Film: helps protect against gravel and brush
EV Sportline Tool Chest: folds into a table and stores recovery gear
Aftermarket Wheels: not name-brand but reliable so far
What I Replaced:
Camp Kitchen: it looked great but limited storage flexibility. I switched to a modular setup that fits my workflow better.
Final Verdict: Would I Buy It Again?
Yes. Without question.
The R1T Tri-Motor is a big improvement over the Gen 1 Quad. It is more stable, more capable, and better engineered. It still has some quirks, but for people who use their trucks for real work and real trips, it is a great choice.
If you already own a Gen 1 and wonder if it is worth the switch, I say yes—especially if you plan to hold onto it. If you are buying your first Rivian, you will be impressed. Just know what kind of truck this is built to be.
