As soon as we saw the Rivian in the pre-production phase, we knew we had to put in a pre-order! It seemed like the perfect car for our lifestyle. For a while, we had been looking at a Tesla X and came to the conclusion that it just wouldn’t be enough room for our family, but the Rivian R1S had it all. It intrigued us that it was electric, but had all the capabilities of a rugged off-roading vehicle and so much storage.
After waiting a couple of years the time had finally come. We were getting our R1S! This all was back in 2021 and then 2023 when we actually got it. Now you don’t have to wait nearly as long and their second generation of the car is now in production.
In fact, you can now get a new R1S (the SUV) or R1T (the truck) in as little as a few weeks! Plus if you use our code to purchase your Rivian, you get 6 months of free charging at Rivian’s Adventure Network charging stations plus 750 Gear Shop points ($750). That Gear Shop credit can get you a lot of fun things!
But let’s get into why this car is so amazing!
Family-Friendly Design
As a family of 5, finding a vehicle that ticks all the boxes—safety, comfort, and practicality—can be a challenge. But the Rivian R1S has proven to be a fantastic option for us, and I wanted to share why it might be a great fit for your family too.
Spacious Three-Row Seating for Everyone
One of the things we immediately noticed and loved about the Rivian R1S is its spacious three-row seating. If you’re like us, with a growing family or just need to accommodate several passengers, having the ability to fit three car seats across the second row is a game-changer. It’s not just about fitting everyone in; it’s about making sure they’re comfortable and safe. The fact that the third row also has lower and tether anchors gives us peace of mind knowing that all our kids are secure, no matter where they sit.
Storage Solutions That Work for Real Life
We’ve all been there—trying to figure out how to fit everything from strollers to diaper bags into the car without sacrificing comfort. The Rivian R1S really shines in this area. The “frunk” or front trunk is one of those features we didn’t know we needed until we had it. It’s perfect for storing those bulky items like strollers or sports gear that would usually take up precious space in the trunk. And with the large cargo area in the back, there’s always room for groceries, extra diapers, or whatever else the day throws at us. Keep in mind, we have a smaller stroller that can fit in the “frunk” but a larger stroller would need to go in the trunk. We also have a bulky Baby Jogger stroller and it does fit in the trunk well.
The flat second-row floorboard is another feature we’ve come to appreciate. It’s amazing how much easier it makes packing up the car for a trip, or even just running errands around town. We love that we can load up without worrying about bumping into awkward humps or losing space.
Designed with Families in Mind
Beyond the practicalities of space and storage, the Rivian R1S feels like it was designed with families like ours in mind. The interior is not just luxurious; it’s functional and durable. With kids in tow, we need a vehicle that can handle spills, sticky fingers, and the inevitable wear and tear of family life. The materials used inside the R1S make clean-up easy, which is a huge plus for us.
The technology in the R1S also adds to its family-friendly appeal. The infotainment system is intuitive and keeps everyone entertained, whether we’re on a long road trip or just driving around town. It’s nice to have everything we need at our fingertips, from navigation to climate control, without having to fiddle with a million buttons.
Built for Adventure: The Rivian R1S in Action
When we were looking for a family vehicle, we didn’t just want something that could handle the daily school run—we needed a vehicle that could keep up with our adventurous lifestyle. That’s where the Rivian R1S truly stands out. It’s not just a family-friendly SUV; it’s a vehicle built for adventure, and it’s made our weekend getaways and outdoor excursions easier and more fun.
Off-Road Capabilities for the Whole Family
One of the things we love most about the Rivian R1S is its off-road capabilities. Whether we’re heading out for a camping trip, exploring a new trail, or just taking a scenic drive, the R1S handles everything we throw at it. The high ground clearance and robust suspension system mean we can tackle rough terrains with confidence, and the all-wheel-drive system ensures that we have traction, no matter the conditions.
What’s really great is that we can bring the whole family along without sacrificing comfort. Even on bumpy roads or rocky trails, the ride remains smooth and comfortable for everyone inside. It’s reassuring to know that we can take the path less traveled without worrying about the vehicle’s performance or our family’s safety.
Built for All Seasons
Our adventures don’t stop when the weather changes, and neither does the Rivian R1S. Whether it’s snow, rain, or sunshine, this SUV is built to handle it all. The all-wheel-drive system is particularly useful in winter conditions, giving us the confidence to drive through snow and ice without a second thought. The vehicle’s weight distribution and advanced traction control keep us safe and steady, even on slippery roads. We opted for the 20” All Terrain tires and they’ve been great!
During the summer, the R1S’s ability to handle off-road trails and dirt roads means we can explore more remote locations that we wouldn’t be able to reach in a typical family vehicle. It’s exciting to know that we’re not limited by the seasons or the terrain—if there’s a place we want to go, the R1S can get us there.
Adventure Without Sacrifice
What’s really important to us is that the Rivian R1S doesn’t force us to choose between family comfort and adventure. It’s designed to provide the best of both worlds. We can pack up the kids, the gear, and head out on an adventure without worrying about whether our vehicle can handle the trip. The R1S is versatile enough to serve as our everyday family car while also being rugged and capable enough to take us on any adventure we dream up.
(Stay tuned for a future update as we get a roof top tent for our R1S allowing us to enjoy more of nature in comfort!)
In short, the Rivian R1S is more than just a family vehicle—it’s a vehicle that adapts to our lifestyle, making every journey smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. If you’re looking for an SUV that blends practicality with the spirit of adventure, the Rivian R1S might just be the perfect fit for your family too. Don’t forget, if you do end up purchasing a Rivian, be sure to use our code to get free charging for 6 months at Rivian’s Adventure Network stations and 750 points in the Rivian Gear Shop (worth $750).