Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Rivian R1S
The 2023 Rivian R1S is a suv that earns a Carivo score of 7.4/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 9.6/10, while Reliability at 5.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 5.6/10 for reliability, this suv trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. On safety, it scores 8.6/10 in our assessment. Always confirm the official crash-test results for your exact trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Few rivals match it for performance: 8.1/10. Expect handling and power delivery that make this one of the more entertaining suvs to actually drive. On technology it rates 9.6/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $75,660–$102,107, 67 MPG, seating 7, the Rivian R1S sits in the luxury tier of the suv market. The value score of 6.3/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Verdict: The 2023 Rivian R1S sits in the middle of the field. Until its value and reliability scores improve, stronger options exist at this price. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2023 Rivian R1S ranks #1166 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 53% of the segment. Its 7.4/10 overall score is exactly at the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $75,660 starting price is about 110% above the segment's median of $36,079.
$0 — 9 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which R1S Year Should You Buy?
Across the R1S model years we've scored, the 2023 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
Exceptional fuel efficiency at 67 MPG — among the best in its class
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Below-average reliability data — factor in potential repair and maintenance costs
Value-for-money is a weak point; comparable alternatives offer more for the price
Premium price bracket — make sure the score justifies the outlay vs. segment alternatives
NHTSA Recalls — 2023 Rivian R1S (9 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Air bags / Side/window / Curtain 09/03/2023 · 23V159000
Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2023 R1S vehicles. The fasteners that secure the right and left side curtain air bags may be improperly secured.
Exterior lighting / Back up lights 31/03/2023 · 23V233000
Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2023 R1S vehicles. The reverse light beam may not be visible from certain angles. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108,…
Visibility / Defroster/defogger/hvac system 21/11/2023 · 23V783000
Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2023 R1T and R1S vehicles. A software update may have deactivated the defroster and defogger system controls.
Rivian Automotive, LLC. (Rivian) is recalling certain 2023-2024 EDV, R1S, and R1T vehicles. The headlights may be improperly aimed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamp,…
Air bags / Critical fasteners 05/06/2024 · 24V408000
Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2024 R1T and R1S vehicles. The attachment clips on the upper B-pillar and/or C-pillar trim panels may have been damaged during a service procedure.
Showing 5 of 9 campaigns — see the full list on NHTSA's site.
Own a 2023 Rivian R1S that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2023 Rivian R1S
Is the 2023 Rivian R1S reliable?
We rate the 2023 Rivian R1S's reliability 5.6/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance. It has 9 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2023 Rivian R1S have?
9 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2023 Rivian R1S worth buying?
It scores 7.4/10 overall, ranking #1166 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 53% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2023 Rivian R1S cost?
The 2023 Rivian R1S starts at $75,660 and ranges up to $102,107 across trims (MSRP when new). At 67 MPG, expect roughly $784/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which R1S years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 5 R1S model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.5/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2023 Rivian R1S have?
The documented issues for the 2023 Rivian R1S are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Air bags, Exterior lighting, Visibility, Equipment (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Rivian R1S
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Similar SUV to Consider
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2023 model shown
