Uncover the Truth Behind the Car and Driver Comparison of the Rivian R1S and BMW iX
The Car and Driver comparison of the R1S and BMW iX has been a hot topic lately. The BMW was more efficient than the Rivian in C&D's 75mph testing, with a smaller battery but longer range (290mi at 75mph). Many have taken these reviews with a grain of salt, as there are many variables that can affect efficiency and range tests. It is also well known that C&D favors certain vehicle manufacturers, so it is possible they slanted the results to make the BMW the winner.
The R1S has already been proven capable in a variety of challenging off-road situations, where the BMW would struggle or fail. However, pinch flats on rocks are a real concern for both vehicles, especially for the heavier R1S. Tire size is also an important factor when considering off-roading capabilities; 20” rims will not be much more capable off road than the BMW, while 17” rims may provide better traction and stability.
The R1S is positioned to lure buyers who are more likely cross shopping vehicles like the XC90, EX90, Q7, et al, and not vehicles like the Tahoe or Expedition. This could explain why Rivian chose to shorten the wheelbase for the R1S versus the R1T; however, this could have made room for more batteries and longer range.
Any current owners care to comment on their take on the C&D gripes? Are any early R1S owners able to weigh-in on the handling complaints such as "steering is out of step with chassis"? What about other issues C&D noticed such as float, front-to-rear porpoising, head toss and tire impact noise? Are these fixable with software updates to suspension and steering, or are they purely mechanical engineering problems? Is top speed 111mph or 125mph?
The BMW iX is a great vehicle, but it is not an off-roader. It has a low center of gravity and good handling, but it will struggle in mud, sand, and snow. The R1S is the better choice for those who want to go off-road or need more range.
The R1S has a lot of potential, but it needs to be tested in real world conditions to see how it performs. It may have some issues that can be addressed with software updates, but it is unclear if they are fixable or just inherent design flaws. It is also unclear what the top speed of the R1S is; C&D reported 111mph, but Rivian claims 125mph.
Overall, the Car and Driver comparison of the R1S and BMW iX was interesting, but it did not provide enough information to make an informed decision. The R1S has a lot of potential, but it needs to be tested in real world conditions to see how it performs. It may have some issues that can be addressed with software updates, but it is unclear if they are fixable or just inherent design flaws. Ultimately, buyers should do their own research before making a purchase decision.
Why is the BMW so much more efficient?
The BMW iX has a smaller battery but demonstrated longer range (290mi at 75mph) than the Rivian R1S in C&D's 75mph testing. This could be due to weather, wind, roads, etc. Additionally, BMW has been building cars for a long time and have more experience, resources, and support than the new comers like Rivian and Tesla.
Any early R1S owners care to weigh-in on the handling complaints: "Steering is out of step with chassis"?
The "plane" comment is probably due to the R1S' nose coming up during acceleration and the suspension not adjusting very fast during acceleration. With 20” rims the R1S will not be much more capable off road then the BMW. However, it has already been proven capable in a variety of challenging situations off-road - situations where the BMW would struggle or simply fail. It's also worth noting that with larger rims come pinch flats on rocks which can be a real concern in a ~7k lb truck.
What about other issues C&D noticed: Float, front-to-rear porpoising, head toss and tire impact noise? Are these fixable with software updates to suspension and steering, or are they purely mechanical engineering problems?
I think we already saw this happen over the last ~10 years since the model S was released. These characteristics do matter, because not all off-roading looks the same. Hopefully the suspension programming can be sorted soon. I am surprised that Rivian chose to shorten the wheelbase as much as they did for the R1S versus the R1T, and am wondering if that is the reason why there are reports of ill handling; noise noticeable from the rear of the cabin, etc.
Is top speed 111mph or 125mph?
Top speed for both vehicles is 125mph.
I don't get the comment: "My 30 year old ski boat gets on plane faster"
The "plane" comment is probably due to the R1S' nose coming up during acceleration and the suspension not adjusting very fast during acceleration. Sand tires need to be able to air down and create a larger footprint which 20’s do not give much sidewall to do. Additionally, using a longer wheelbase might have made room for more batteries, hence longer range.