“One pedal driving feature is not amazing- should have option to turn off. The map interface needs to be changed so you can select your own charging stations and not be selected for you. The audio is amazing. However, normal radio cuts in and out and is terrible.”
2023 Rivian R1S: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2023 Rivian R1S is broader availability of dual-motor and Performance Dual-Motor versions of the Adventure trim. Otherwise, this first full production year brings software-focused updates rather than a redesign.
About the 2023 Rivian R1S
1st generation (2022-2024), second model year and first full production year.
Rivian positions the R1S as an electric adventure SUV that does family duty and trail duty in the same vehicle. The brand’s messaging centers on outdoor capability, premium cabin comfort, smart storage, and software-driven ownership, rather than just quick acceleration or luxury status. What separates it from most three-row EVs is that it is built to tow, wade, climb, and camp, while still offering a roomy three-row interior and everyday usability.
The Adventure is the mainline 2023 R1S, pairing seven-seat practicality with an adjustable air suspension, a panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats and a built-in air compressor. The Launch Edition is the early showcase version, distinguished by its quad-motor AWD setup while retaining the R1S's three-row cabin and standard Driver+ safety suite.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The Adventure lineup expands beyond the original launch setup with broader availability of dual-motor and Performance Dual-Motor configurations. The Launch Edition retains its quad-motor AWD powertrain.
Tech
Camp Mode and Kneel Mode are standard for 2023. Rivian also continues adding functions through over-the-air software updates rather than introducing major new cabin hardware.
2023 Rivian R1S specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Dual Electric Motors / Quad Electric Motors / Electric Motors, Dual Performance | Quad Electric Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 600–835 hp | 835 hp |
| Torque | 600–908 lb-ft | 908 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7700 lb | 7700 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 32.7 in | 32.7 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 321–352 | 289 |
| MPGe Combined | 71–78 | 71 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2023 Rivian R1S?
The biggest change is broader dual-motor availability for the Adventure trim, including the rollout of Performance Dual-Motor configurations. This expands the lineup beyond the original quad-motor launch formula.
Was the 2023 Rivian R1S redesigned?
No, the 2023 Rivian R1S was not redesigned. It keeps the same body and basic structure as the R1S that debuted late in 2022, with the year's updates centered on powertrain choice and software.
Do all 2023 Rivian R1S models have the dual-motor powertrain?
No, not every 2023 R1S is dual-motor. The Adventure trim expanded to dual-motor and Performance Dual-Motor configurations during the year, while the Launch Edition remained a quad-motor AWD model.
What software-related features changed on the 2023 Rivian R1S?
Camp Mode and Kneel Mode are standard on the 2023 R1S. Rivian also continued adding functions through over-the-air updates, so the technology story is mainly new software capability rather than new screens or other major cabin hardware.
2023 Rivian R1S Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 Rivian R1S.
4.3
2023 Rivian R1S
(324 reviews)
“So far it has ticked all the boxes, except my children cannot reset the third row seat into position after getting in the third row.”
“Over all it's pretty cool. Love the speed and power. Problem is, the driver's seat is so uncomfortable. Just way too stiff and tight. I honestly am getting rid of it because of that.”