MODEL
Rivian R1s
NHTSA safety across every Rivian R1s model year we cover.
Across the 4 model years of the Rivian R1s we cover (2022 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2024 at 77 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2023 at 72. 36 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Rivian R1S is a full-size, all-electric SUV aimed squarely at adventure-minded families who want serious off-road capability without sacrificing passenger space or tech. Positioned against the likes of the Tesla Model X and Ford Expedition, this three-row hauler from Rivian's Normal, Illinois plant has quickly become a flagship statement for the emerging American EV truck brand.
From a pure safety-data standpoint, the Rivian R1S presents a mixed picture that shoppers should examine carefully before signing. The best NHTSA Safety Index across our covered 2022-2025 model years lands at 77 out of 100 for the 2024 model year, placing it squarely in the Average band - respectable, but not a class leader. Formal crash-test star ratings for frontal and side disciplines are not yet rated by NHTSA across these years, which is a genuine gap in the data. The rollover score of 4 out of 5 stars is reasonable given the R1S's tall, heavy body structure, though all large SUVs carry inherent rollover exposure. The recall count is the headline concern here: 36 recalls across just three model years is a high figure by any standard, reflecting the growing pains of a startup automaker scaling production rapidly. Owner complaints total 138, with 19 alleged crashes and 10 reported injuries among those unverified allegations - numbers worth taking seriously even with the caveat that these are self-reported. The R1S is a genuinely impressive machine in many respects, but the safety record to date reads as a work in progress. Buyers should verify that all outstanding recalls have been addressed on any specific vehicle and monitor for new campaigns as the platform matures.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the R1S for its commanding road presence, well-appointed interior materials, and composed, quiet ride that belies its size. Its off-road capability and driving dynamics draw consistent admiration. Some reviewers note that software refinement and build consistency have improved over successive model years, though early examples drew scrutiny for fit-and-finish variation. Overall value relative to its premium price point generates divided opinion.
- The R1S has accumulated 36 recalls across the 2022-2025 model years - an unusually high count for such a short production history. Any used or new example should be checked against NHTSA's recall database to confirm all campaigns have been completed.
- NHTSA frontal and side crash-test star ratings are not yet available for the covered model years, meaning shoppers cannot make a complete apples-to-apples comparison with most competitors. The only formal star rating on record is a 4 out of 5 for rollover resistance.
- The best NHTSA Safety Index for the R1S is 77 out of 100, earned by the 2024 model year and categorized as Average. Shoppers prioritizing top-tier crash-test performance should note this falls short of the highest-scoring large SUVs in the segment.
- Owner complaints include 19 alleged crashes and 10 reported injuries across 138 total filings - all unverified allegations, but a higher crash-allegation rate than many established competitors. Prospective buyers should review the specific complaint narratives on NHTSA's website for the model year they are considering.
Most-recalled year on record: 2022 Rivian R1s with 12 recalls.