For those already drawn to Rivian, there’s always a sense that the story isn’t finished yet. The Gen 2 R1S Quad leans into that feeling—less a reinvention, more a confident next step.

Sitting above the Dual- and Tri-Motor versions, the new Quad is here with a bit more attitude. With 1,025 horsepower and 1,198 lb-ft of torque, this seven-seat SUV moves with an ease that doesn’t quite match its size—in a good way. Rivian says 0–60 mph takes 2.6 seconds, with up to 374 miles of range, though in practice, it feels less about numbers and more about how effortlessly it all comes together.

What’s new here isn’t just power, it’s polish. In-house drive units, faster computing, and a reworked suspension give everything a smoother, more settled feel. It’s just as capable off-road, but now a little more composed about it—less proving, more doing.

Out in the Hamptons, the R1S Quad feels completely in its element. The drive from New York City to East Hampton becomes part of the appeal rather than a means to an end. A stop at Rivian’s Charging Outpost fits naturally into the rhythm—six fast chargers, including a trailer-friendly pull-through, open around the clock. You plug in, grab a coffee, maybe something small to eat, and reset for a minute. It’s low-key, which feels right.

Back on the road, the acceleration still catches people off guard. That instant torque doesn’t build, it just arrives—firmly and without much warning. There’s a high-pitched electric whine as speed picks up, and then suddenly you’re moving much faster than expected. It’s fun, undeniably, though like most things, it settles into the background after a while.

Inside, things calm down. The cabin is minimal, but not cold. Rivian’s Ascend interior mixes quilted leather, open-pore wood, and small details—like plaid floor mats—that feel intentional rather than styled. A 15.6-inch central screen and 12.3-inch driver display handle the tech, while heated and ventilated seats, along with ambient lighting, keep everything comfortable without trying too hard.

That balance is really the point. The R1S Quad isn’t just about performance, or range, or even design on its own—it’s how all of it fits into daily life. It feels just as right running errands as it does heading out of the city.

Rivian isn’t chasing attention here. If anything, it feels more settled—more sure of what it is. And this version of the R1S reflects that. It’s quick, capable, and quietly confident, with just enough personality to keep things interesting.

Let’s Build One.

Photography: David Lewis Taylor