Rivian Rolls Out Second-Generation Quad-Motor With Four-Digit Horsepower and Torque
Electric vehicles have democratized the sort of power that is nearly unthinkable in internal combustion vehicles. Rivian’s range-topping R1S and R1T Quad-Motor vehicles previously generated a combined 835 horsepower and 908 pounds-feet of torque; that’s more oomph than the Ferrari 296 GTB has — in an SUV and a pickup truck. But with EVs from Tesla, Lucid and Porsche now in the comma club, that piddling output simply wouldn’t do any longer.
Rivian’s second-generation Quad-Motor has bowed for the 2026 model year, and the setup produces a total of 1,025 hp and a monumental 1,198 pounds-feet of torque. (The R1S SUV and R1T pickup are structurally the same, just wearing different bodies.) The automaker says the Quad’s four motors will fling the R1 from 0-60 mph in just 2.5 seconds and through the quarter-mile in 10.5. Want to drag race a mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette Z06 in your pickup or seven-seat SUV? Launch with confidence — but don’t forget to activate the new Launch Cam, which engages the exterior cameras and overlays the footage with speed and distance data.
Related: 2025 Rivian R1T Review: Looks the Same, Works Better
Improved Power, Efficiency and Control
Rivian’s Quad-Motor powertrain consists of separate front and rear drive units, each of which incorporates two motors, one for each wheel. The rear drive unit is geared for performance, and the front unit is set up for efficiency. In the Conserve drive mode, the rear unit automatically disconnects to maximize range. While the estimated range for the Quad-Motor is up to 374 miles, Rivian says Conserve mode will stretch that to 400 miles (official EPA ratings are not yet available).
The Gen 2 Quad’s four motors are now oil-cooled, which Rivian says improves both thermal management for low-speed off-road driving and efficiency on the highway. Each motor is individually controlled, which enables precise handling and tricks like the off-road Kick Turn (available in September). This bit of theater allows the R1 to rotate about its center, like the electric Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology’s G-Turn. Rivian, however, takes the capability one step further, saying the Quad can perform a Kick Turn even while moving. The brand promises more capability is coming soon, with the arrival of the Rivian Adventure Department Tuner, which will allow drivers to fine-tune ride and handling characteristics using sliders on the touchscreen.
Fresh Interior
The optional bronze wheel finish matches the Quad’s newly upgraded interior, which features bronzed metal trim. Dubbed “Ascend” by Rivian, the ritzier cabin now includes quilted seats, plaid detailing, and more stitched fabrics on the doors, center console and dash. Three color and wood options are available: Ocean Coast with Driftwood (light grays for both the upholstery and wood), Slate Sky with Walnut (gray-ish blue with light wood) and Black Mountain with Brown Ash (self-explanatory).
Other standard features on the Quad-Motor include a panoramic electrochromic roof that dims at the touch of a button, a 16-speaker premium audio system, blacked-out exterior trim, skid plates and an onboard air compressor. Starting with the 2026 model year, a North American Charging Standard port is standard on all Rivians, as is a Combined Charging System adapter for other public Level 2 and DC fast-charging stations.
High Performance by Any Definition
The R1 Quad-Motor’s dynamic range is apparent in its tire options. Choices include both Ultra High Performance summer rubber and 34-inch all-terrain tires. Four wheels are available, with two designs each in 20- and 22-inch sizes. Brake calipers and exterior badging in a metallic teal color Rivian calls Laguna Beach Blue subtly distinguish the Quad from less powerful R1s. There’s also a small, windswept sasquatch badge on the rear of the vehicle; that’s Rivian’s security-system mascot, Gear Guard. (He’s available in plush form for $40.)
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Release Date and Pricing
No premium vehicle simply enters the market anymore; the new Rivian R1 Quad-Motor debuts in Launch Edition form. This commemorative package is available in two exterior/interior color combinations and includes a unique dash plaque, Rivian’s Bluetooth camp speaker, a key fob modeled after a carabiner and a lifetime subscription to Rivian’s advanced driver-assistance systems and connected services.
The second-generation Rivian R1S and R1T Quad-Motor are on sale now. Full line pricing is as follows (all prices include $1,895 destination fee):
- R1T: $117,885
- R1T Launch Edition: $121,885
- R1S: $123,885
- R1S Launch Edition: $127,885
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