Rivian R1S Tri Max Ascend Review | Is It Faster Than Gen 1 Quad?

Please consider using our Rivian Referral code when purchasing your new Rivian.  When you do we both get rewarded with points to use in the Rivian gear shop.  When you use our referral code it supports our channel.  Thank you for your continued support 🥰

https://rivian.com/configurations/list?reprCode=KEN1703245

When it comes to electric SUVs that blend performance, luxury, and off-road capability, the Rivian R1S stands out as one of the most exciting vehicles on the market. Today, we dive deep into the latest iteration: the Rivian R1S Tri Max Ascend. This tri-motor performance machine brings some significant upgrades and refinements over the original Gen 1 quad motor version. We’ll explore the exterior design, interior upgrades, driving impressions, and the latest Rivian autonomy features to see if this new Tri Max Ascend lives up to the hype — and whether it truly outperforms the Gen 1 Quad motor R1S.

Exterior Design and Features

The Rivian R1S Tri Max Ascend comes in the stunning new Storm Blue color, which I find incredibly attractive. It’s a darker shade compared to the Limestone color but shares a similar shifting quality depending on the lighting. This color alone gives the vehicle a refined, sophisticated look that suits its adventurous spirit.

Walking around the Tri Max, it’s immediately clear that the blackout package is a key highlight. Many of the options that are optional on the dual motor R1S are standard on the tri motor version. This means if you were considering a fully loaded dual motor, it might make more sense to go for the tri motor instead, given the price difference might not be as significant as you’d expect.

Another standout exterior feature is the yellow brake calipers and yellow-accented badging, which are unique to the tri motor Ascend trim. In the original Gen 1, yellow accents were exclusive to the quad motor, but the new quad motor now comes with blue or turquoise accenting instead. Beyond these cosmetic differences, you’ll find the usual high-end options like tow hooks and rugged trim that make this vehicle ready for any adventure.

Interior Upgrades and Comfort

Inside, the Tri Max Ascend steps up the game in terms of luxury and refinement. One of the first things you’ll notice is the new push-button door openers, replacing the traditional handles. These buttons activate an electronic mechanism, and while it’s normal for the truck to sometimes “sleep” and require a gentle pull to reopen, this adds a modern, high-tech feel to the cabin.

The pedals are now brushed aluminum, a feature that was standard on the Gen 1 quad motor but is exclusive to the tri motor and new quad motor in this generation. The seats themselves feature vegan leather with contrast stitching and bronze-colored accents on the sides and seat bottoms. These details elevate the interior’s look and feel considerably.

One of my favorite touches is the plaid fabric accents on the headrests and carpeted mats, which replace the yellow accenting seen in previous models. This plaid theme continues on the rear seats, complementing the vegan leather and wood trim that Rivian has reintroduced on the seatbacks — a feature removed in later Gen 1 models but now exclusive to the tri motor.

The wood trim and the overall color scheme create a warm, inviting atmosphere inside the cabin. The attention to detail Rivian has put into this vehicle’s interior truly makes it a standout in the electric SUV segment.

Range and Driving Modes

The Tri Max Ascend comes standard with the Max Pack battery, offering impressive range options depending on your driving mode. In “All Purpose” mode, the estimated range sits at about 346 miles, while “Sport” mode drops it slightly to around 341 miles. Interestingly, there’s also a “Conserve” mode designed to maximize range by enabling a disconnect-on-demand function for the rear motors, though all three motors remain active. This mode helps when you want to squeeze out every last mile from a charge.

It’s important to note that these range estimates can vary based on driving style, terrain, and vehicle load. Since the vehicle I tested was a demo, likely driven hard for performance testing, the displayed range was a bit lower. Still, these numbers indicate a solid balance between power and efficiency for daily driving and long trips alike.

Dynamic Glass Roof

One of the coolest features of the Tri Max Ascend is the dynamic glass roof. This roof panel can switch between clear and opaque at the touch of a button via the infotainment system. When opaque, it acts like a lampshade, diffusing sunlight and preventing hot spots inside the cabin, which can be a big plus on sunny days.

This feature adds not only to the interior ambiance but also to passenger comfort, making the cabin feel bright and open or shaded and cool depending on your preference. It’s a great example of Rivian’s focus on combining technology with practical comfort.

Performance: Launch Mode and Driving Impressions

Let’s talk about performance — where the Tri Max Ascend really shines. The vehicle is equipped with three powerful motors, and Rivian has engineered this setup from the ground up specifically for this model. This means the motor mounts are sturdier, and the power delivery feels more planted compared to the original quad motor setup.

During launch mode tests, the Tri Max delivers an exhilarating experience. The acceleration hits harder and more immediately than the quad motor version, with a peak of around 1.07 G-force. The initial 30 to 70 mph acceleration is noticeably stronger, making it feel faster off the line even compared to the 1025 horsepower quad motor. The "butt dyno" test — a casual way car enthusiasts measure how a car feels in terms of acceleration — confirms this impression, with the tri motor delivering a more visceral, gut-punching launch.

What’s also impressive is how the suspension feels. In Sport mode, the Tri Max’s suspension is more supple and better tuned for both compression and rebound, offering a smoother, more controlled ride compared to the original quad motor setup. This makes a big difference not only on straight-line acceleration but also when tackling corners or rough terrain.

One thing to note is that the quad motor’s launch mode has a slight delay compared to the tri motor. This delay is due to how the power is calibrated and delivered to the wheels, which affects the initial traction bite. The tri motor’s improved motor mounts and tuning help it get off the line faster and more aggressively without sacrificing control.

Rivian Autonomy Platform and Lane Change on Command

Beyond raw power, the Tri Max Ascend features advanced driver assistance technologies. The latest Rivian Autonomy platform includes a new feature called Lane Change on Command. This allows the vehicle to change lanes automatically when prompted by the driver, without needing manual steering input.

During highway testing, the lane change function worked impressively well. You simply activate the feature, and the vehicle smoothly transitions to the next lane, adjusting for other traffic. It even aborts the lane change if it detects unsafe conditions, making it a smart and safe addition for highway driving.

For those who spend a lot of time on highways or in stop-and-go traffic, this feature can significantly reduce driver fatigue and improve overall driving comfort. It’s a notable improvement over previous versions of Rivian’s driver assistance systems.

Is the Tri Max Ascend Worth It?

If you’re weighing the options between a fully loaded Dual Motor Performance R1S and the Tri Max Ascend, it’s worth considering the value proposition. The tri motor comes standard with many high-end features that are optional on the dual motor, including the blackout package, upgraded interior materials, and advanced suspension tuning.

Performance-wise, the tri motor offers a more thrilling driving experience with stronger acceleration and better handling. It’s also designed from the ground up for this specific configuration, which means better integration and refinement. For enthusiasts who enjoy spirited driving, off-road adventures, or simply want the best all-around package, the Tri Max Ascend is a compelling choice.

However, for those who primarily use their vehicle for everyday commuting or casual driving, the dual motor might still be sufficient. The quad motor remains a powerful and capable option as well, especially with the upcoming new quad motor versions promising even more improvements.

Final Thoughts

The Rivian R1S Tri Max Ascend is a remarkable evolution of an already impressive electric SUV. From the eye-catching Storm Blue exterior and unique yellow accents to the luxurious vegan leather interior with plaid details, every aspect feels thoughtfully designed. The dynamic glass roof adds a modern touch of comfort, while the tri motor’s performance delivers exhilarating acceleration and superior handling.

The advanced autonomy features, particularly Lane Change on Command, showcase Rivian’s commitment to technology and driver convenience. Whether you’re a car enthusiast looking for thrilling off-road and on-road performance or a family seeking a versatile electric SUV with top-tier features, the Tri Max Ascend delivers on multiple fronts.

Overall, this vehicle proves that you don’t need four motors to achieve incredible performance — Rivian’s engineering and design have made the tri motor setup a force to be reckoned with. It’s an exciting time for Rivian owners and fans, with the future looking even brighter as more innovations and updates roll out.

For those considering a Rivian R1S, I highly recommend taking a close look at the Tri Max Ascend. It’s more than just an upgrade; it’s a statement of what electric performance SUVs can be.