[Gen 1 R1S Quad Motor] vs [Gen 2 R1S Standard LFP]

[Electron]

I was asked about this on two different occasions from two different people so I thought I'd share my thoughts. It's an interesting one. I did recommend going with a particular one for both of them.

[~$65K - $75K for a used Gen 1 R1S Quad Motor] or [~75,900* for a new Gen 2 Dual Standard]?

So for one with a max budget of >$80K

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2022-2024 Gen 1 Quad Motor R1S:

Pros:

• Quad Motor = Faster
• Better Range, although if utilizing 80% about the same as the Gen 2 DM Standard
• Torque vectoring (power distribution)
• Better overall off-road capabilities
• Air Compressor (stock)
• Already took the depreciation hit
• Plenty of warranty left
• Larger overall frunk volume @ 11.1 cubic feet
• Charges better than LFP in colder environments

Cons:

• Not the first to fart on the seats
• Previous gen cameras and computers
• No heat pump
• Ride may not be as refined feeling as the Gen 2 (subjective)
• Quad Motors being more complex may be less reliable in the long run

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2025 Gen 2 Dual Standard

Pros:

• Heat Pump
• Suspension refinements / tuning
• LFP, can charge to 100%, however post #8.
• Latest Cameras
• More powerful computers & design (newer technology)
• Refined architecture under the skin
• Better drivers assist
• Longer SW OTA support
• Dual Motor being less complex, potentially more reliable in the long run
• Full warranty

Cons:

• First year model teething issues
• Will eat the initial depreciation
• Have to pay extra for air compressor and other add ons
• No 3rd row storage cubby on newer builds (DM only?)
• Less 12v oulets
• Flimsier charge port cover
• Smaller frunk @ 8.4 cubic feet
• LFP so it may do far worse in colder climates with charging and range hit, despite it having a heat pump.

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My take:

If, the 258-270 range of the Gen 2 DM Standard is more than enough, just go with the Gen 2 for the newer and improved tech. For the better cameras, suspension, HEAT PUMP and overall refinement alone.

If, range is crucial then for the money going with the Gen 1 QM is an obvious choice.

If, you're in and out of cars every few years and don't hold on to them for long then take into consideration the depreciation of the new Gen 2 as it'll fall like a rock over the first 3 years. -- If lucky, mid to high 30k in 3 years. The Gen 1 may depreciate at a slower rate, but even if it didn't the initial hit was already taken by the first owner.

Please chime in and I'll update the Pros and Cons. This should help those who are curious about this match up.

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[Donald Stanfield]

If it were me, I'd get the used quad. You could get one like mine, well taken care of, PPF, detailed regularly, kept in a climate-controlled garage at 70%, and limited fast charging. In this segment, you'll be able to find a cared-for vehicle.

The only reasons I'm trading mine into a Gen Two don't apply to you. I need an SUV and have the truck, and I want the Ascend interior.

 

[sub]

I would value the objectively better range and acceleration more than subjectively improved comforts unless you have sat in the two versions and actually found the differences noticeable and really significant.

Also, the range difference between a Gen 1 Quad/Large and a Gen 2 Dual/Standard is larger than the EPA ratings suggest.

A big chunk of the efficiency improvements are from changing the test parameters. For example gen 2/dual motor vehicles are tested in the most efficient drive mode while gen 1 quads are an average of all drive modes.

Rather than comparing EPA ratings, I would compare usable battery capacity in KWH to get a more accurate comparison of how much more/less range there will be in real world conditions.

 

[Donald Stanfield]

I would value the objectively better range and acceleration more than subjectively improved comforts unless you have sat in the two versions and actually found the differences noticeable and really significant.

Also, the range difference between a Gen 1 Quad/Large and a Gen 2 Dual/Standard is larger than the EPA ratings suggest.

A big chunk of the efficiency improvements are from changing the test parameters. For example gen 2/dual motor vehicles are tested in the most efficient mode while gen 1 quads are an average of all drive modes.

Rather than comparing EPA ratings, I would compare usable battery capacity in KWH to get a more accurate comparison of how much more/less range there will be in real world conditions.

Exactly. You gain much more significantly from conserve mode on long trips in the quad.

 

[Electron]

If it were me, I'd get the used quad. You could get one like mine, well taken care of, PPF, detailed regularly, kept in a climate-controlled garage at 70%, and limited fast charging. In this segment, you'll be able to find a cared-for vehicle.

The only reasons I'm trading mine into a Gen Two don't apply to you. I need an SUV and have the truck, and I want the Ascend interior.

I told them to go for the Quad as well.

 

[Electron]

I would value the objectively better range and acceleration more than subjectively improved comforts unless you have sat in the two versions and actually found the differences noticeable and really significant.

Also, the range difference between a Gen 1 Quad/Large and a Gen 2 Dual/Standard is larger than the EPA ratings suggest.

A big chunk of the efficiency improvements are from changing the test parameters. For example gen 2/dual motor vehicles are tested in the most efficient drive mode while gen 1 quads are an average of all drive modes.

Rather than comparing EPA ratings, I would compare usable battery capacity in KWH to get a more accurate comparison of how much more/less range there will be in real world conditions.

True, between the two examples here though the Quad is quite a bit ahead, even more so with conserve mode.

I never put too much stock into EPA numbers, rather just state them for a rough estimate / paper specs.

Tesla is a prime example of over inflating paper spec king, while HMG & Mercedes for example often meet or exceed their range numbers.

 

[usulio]

If it were me, I'd get the used quad. You could get one like mine, well taken care of, PPF, detailed regularly, kept in a climate-controlled garage at 70%, and limited fast charging. In this segment, you'll be able to find a cared-for vehicle.

Plus, and this is not a huge factor, but if someone else has tested the vehicle for a year you know you're not getting a lemon.

 

[Electrified Outdoors]

Nice write up. The thing with LFP though is that they still don’t like to be at 100% all the time. Rivian still recommends the same daily charging limits.

the 100% charge once in a while helps the BMS accurately predict SOC. My routine with LFP would be a 100% charge every two weeks or so but daily I would still limit it to 70-85%.

Even with all that the LFP standard would probably be enough range for most folks daily needs. LFP also charges pretty fast so road trips are very doable in it.

I point out the LFP differences because it’s commonly thought they like to be charged to 100% because that’s what Tesla had recommended for theirs. They can do more cycles but I would avoid daily 100% charging.

 

[9527]

I’d choose neither.
I always think about this. I’ll keep my QM LE until it dies or until I can no longer afford out of warranty repairs but if I’m so unfortunate I totaled it, I might just get a used Model Y for $30k and wait for the R2 since I can still take priority delivery.

 

[natcc99]

Very nice post. I like how your break down of the pros/cons

I was in a similar boat and was planning on purchasing a Gen 2.
I decided to get the Gen 1 for the things you highlighted. The biggest selling point was buying my Gen 1 after depreciation.

I had a Tesla before my Rivian. I bought the Tesla new before the price drop. It really killed my resale value and my feeling/loyality towards the brand. Anyways, after experiencing that, I don't want to buy a brand new car again.

 

[trimotormusthave]

Need to add…https://rivian.com/support/article/what-features-are-included-in-the-rivian-autonomy-platform

 

[Schroederhc]

It's not an easy answer for sure. I ended up kicking the can down the road and leased a Gen 1. Love it for sure.

 

[madgrey]

Good pro/con lists, they reminded me of one major factor: The ride quality. If the question was about an R1T, I'd go with a used Quad motor with no reservations. However, for the R1S, this would be tough for me. I agree that whether or not the ride quality is good enough for an individual is subjective, but I think it's universally accepted that it's noticeably worse than the R1T and doesn't really stack up to the (ICE) competition. The R1S Gen2 improves the overall ride.

 

[iamnid]

I guess I put more value on "being the first to fart on the seats" than most in this thread because I'd go with the new Standard Dual Motor.

 

[Electron]

I’d choose neither.
I always think about this. I’ll keep my QM LE until it dies or until I can no longer afford out of warranty repairs but if I’m so unfortunate I totaled it, I might just get a used Model Y for $30k and wait for the R2 since I can still take priority delivery.

Pretty good plan.

Very nice post. I like how your break down of the pros/cons

I was in a similar boat and was planning on purchasing a Gen 2.
I decided to get the Gen 1 for the things you highlighted. The biggest selling point was buying my Gen 1 after depreciation.

I had a Tesla before my Rivian. I bought the Tesla new before the price drop. It really killed my resale value and my feeling/loyality towards the brand. Anyways, after experiencing that, I don't want to buy a brand new car again.

Thanks. Glad it brought some value. When I was asked this the first time it really made me think, "Huh...hmmm, this is a good one," but after the second person asked on a completely different occasion then it really-really made me think.

Yikes and that Tesla price drop. I feel the pain. Don't ask me how I know lol. But sad to say that those who have bought the Gen 1 after the price hike and the new Gen 2 at six figures will also experience a similar rug pull when these things tank in value by 50%+ in the near future.

There are some similarities between the Tesla rug pull vs those who bought after Rivian's price hike; excluding the early res/voucher holders.

I agree, in my opinion the only way it makes some sense to buy a new EV is if you can stack discounts and incentives to where those two would absorb the depreciation. Otherwise, leasing at a good lease rate or buying used is the best call IMO for when it comes to EVs.

You're on the right track.

It's not an easy answer for sure. I ended up kicking the can down the road and leased a Gen 1. Love it for sure.

Very nice! Can't go wrong with the Gen 1. IMO it's built better, more tank like and doesn't feel like it had liposuction.

Good pro/con lists, they reminded me of one major factor: The ride quality. If the question was about an R1T, I'd go with a used Quad motor with no reservations. However, for the R1S, this would be tough for me. I agree that whether or not the ride quality is good enough for an individual is subjective, but I think it's universally accepted that it's noticeably worse than the R1T and doesn't really stack up to the (ICE) competition. The R1S Gen2 improves the overall ride.

Yes indeed. What's funny is that for anyone coming from an older Tesla would find the Gen 1 amazing. However, once they experience a Gen 2 then it can't be ignored.

I guess I put more value on "being the first to fart on the seats" than most in this thread because I'd go with the new Standard Dual Motor.

Ha! Fair enough. I had put that in there on purpose to show that the Gen 1 really doesn't have that many cons that actually matter a ton for the average person. The newer tech in the Gen 2 is nice, but the Gen 1 does all the basics well enough to where it's not a huge gap between the two generations.

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