Upon receiving my Rivian R1S TriMotor, I discovered a disappointing 20 miles less range than advertised, with additional concerns regarding off-center steering and peeling trim quality issues.
The delivery experience with a Rivian R1S TriMotor can be uneven, with some owners reporting issues like a dusty, non-detailed vehicle on arrival and minimal in-person assistance during setup. This leaves newcomers to rely on self-learning resources like YouTube. However, the handover often feels rushed, with delivery reps assuming the customer already knows EV basics, which can be challenging for newcomers [1].
Despite these early delivery annoyances, the Rivian owner community is notably supportive and welcoming. New owners who share their mixed experiences, such as concerns about range falling short of advertised figures or minor build quality issues, tend to receive helpful, friendly responses rather than criticism. This has fostered a sense of a close-knit “Rivian family” within the online forums and Facebook groups [1].
Many owners praise Rivian’s customer service for being responsive and proactive, including sending technicians to owners’ homes to address issues quickly. Over time, many drivers report growing satisfaction with their vehicles, enjoying the driving experience, and feeling genuinely connected to the brand and its community [2].
A user switched from the EV9 to an R1S, citing a reassuring 450-mile real-world range through rural routes. The 2026 Rivian models include NACS compatibility and deliver up to 220 kW peak charge on the 140‐kWh battery. The 2026 Rivian R1S now offers a quad-motor setup producing 1,025 hp and 1,198 lb-ft [3].
The owner's R1S showed a lower mileage than expected, with 309 miles EPA est. in All-Purpose mode and 350 miles in Conserve mode. However, they encountered some issues, such as a slightly off-center steering wheel, misaligned vehicle, and peeling trim rubber molding [4].
Adam DiCaprio mentioned that his Tesla delivery also had quirks. Despite its size, reviewers highlight the smooth, composed ride even under hard acceleration, comparing the R1S's off-road capabilities to that of a Land Cruiser [5].
The R1S's "Kick Turn" feature and terrain system make tight, off-road maneuvers simple. The RAD Tuner allows for 10-level adjustment across powertrain, regeneration, ride height, steering, and more. One owner shared that they burned through two full sets of tires in just 21,000 miles, highlighting weight and grip tradeoffs [6].
Rivian's online community is built on patience and mutual support, standing out in a world where most online communities are built on outrage. The RAD Tuner allows for 10-level adjustment across powertrain, regeneration, ride height, steering, and more [7]. A new Rivian owner posted their early experience on Facebook and received a welcoming response, demonstrating the community's supportive nature.
Dominick Mongelli, a Rivian employee, provided a detailed explanation of the battery break-in regimen and efficiency of the All-Terrain tires. Despite some initial challenges, the Rivian R1S TriMotor offers a unique blend of power, range, and off-road capabilities, making it an attractive option for many EV enthusiasts [8].
[1] Rivian R1S Ownership: What to Expect
[2] Rivian R1S Owners Share Their Experiences
[3] Rivian Announces 2026 Models
[4] Rivian R1S: My First Impressions
[5] Rivian R1S: A Smooth Ride and Off-Road Capabilities
[6] Rivian R1S: Tire Wear and Maintenance
[7] Rivian R1S: A Community Built on Support
[8] Rivian Employee Shares Insights on R1S
