Rivian R1S Gen 2 Quad-Motor Review: Real Power, Real Impressions

2026 Rivian R1S Quad Motor next to 2025 Rivian R1T Tri Max

I recently had the chance to test drive the Rivian R1S Gen 2 Quad-Motor, and let me tell you… it’s not just fast, it’s refined. This SUV blends raw power with real-world usability in a way that few electric vehicles manage to pull off. In this post, I’m sharing my honest impressions of the design, driving dynamics, and everything else I noticed during my first hands-on experience.

Watch the full video review and ride-along here:
https://youtu.be/eyFhuajjjKc

Exterior and Styling Details
The R1S Quad keeps Rivian’s familiar design language but introduces some standout touches. You’ll notice bronze wheels, teal brake calipers, and some subtle aesthetic tweaks that hint at the extra performance beneath the surface. The wheels look fantastic, even though they’re not the size I’d want for my personal setup.

The new 22 inch Bronze wheels from Rivian is a refreshing take on a classic Rivian wheel.

Interior and Cabin Feel
Step inside and it’s classic Rivian—clean layout, smart tech, and a premium feel. The Ascend trim continues to feel refined and rugged at the same time. While much of the interior looks the same as previous versions, the materials and sound insulation seem just a bit more polished

Driving Performance and Handling
This is where the R1S Quad really shows off. With nearly 1,000 horsepower, it delivers instant torque and confidence-inspiring handling. Even in standard drive mode, it feels responsive and quick… more so than my previous Tri-Motor in sport mode.

The suspension has also been re-tuned for a tighter, more composed feel on the road. It manages to smooth out rough patches while still feeling sportier than expected.

Sound System and Ride Quality
One thing that really stood out was the audio. The sound system in the R1S Quad is deep, rich, and loud—in a good way. It feels like Rivian took extra care to tune the in-cabin experience for clarity and punch, and it shows.

Everyday Driving and Potential
Though this wasn’t an off-road session, the R1S Quad gave off strong capability vibes. It handled pavement beautifully, and with the right tires and drive mode, I have no doubt it can hang on the trail. For daily driving, the ride is smooth and solid, and the interior space makes it a solid choice for families or gear-heavy travel.

Gear Guard Gary Goes FAST

Final Thoughts
The Rivian R1S Gen 2 Quad-Motor is the kind of vehicle that makes an impression fast—iterally and figuratively. It’s powerful, sharp, and thoughtfully engineered. Whether you're new to Rivian or just curious what the new Quad is like in real driving conditions, this SUV proves that electric doesn’t mean compromise.

Watch the full experience here for all the reactions, road feel, and details:
https://youtu.be/eyFhuajjjKc