BMW iX vs Rivian R1s: Which Mega EV SUV Wins?

It’s 2023, and having a vehicle with zero tailpipe emissions is no longer a dream but a reality. The BMW iX vs. Rivian R1S is different in its own right, but they are two of the most popular electric SUV models. Each EV that hits the market, be it a Tesla or a BMW, has varying capabilities. Still, both are great alternatives for individuals with distinct tastes, big families, and eco-friendliness. 

The options are limited if you want to express your tastes and mindfulness of the environment with a luxurious, forward-thinking EV car. Rolls-Royce and Bentley are yet to get there, and the long-awaited Mercedes EQS SUV is yet to hit the market. The Audi e-tron, the Genesis GV60, and the Cadillac Lyriq don’t come close to the bar set by the BMW iX and Rivian R1S, our best picks in this review. 

So how do these two awesome EVs stack against each other regarding pricing, performance, speed, and just about anything?

BMW iX vs. Rivian R1s: Side-by-Side Comparison 

BMW iX vs. Rivian R1s: What’s the Difference?

The BMW iX and Rivan R1s are great electric SUVs with similar features and capabilities, especially speed and performance. However, both cars are different in many aspects. 

Design Differences

Aside from being BMW’s pioneer electric SUV to enter the American market, the iX looks sportier than the BMW iX. This is the most apparent difference you’ll notice between these two cars. 

While the Rivian R1s SUV is the second consumer model by the California-based startup automaker, it’s their first SUV. Both cars are bulky with exceptional speed, thanks to their out-of-this-world acceleration and state-of-the-art, high-powered electric motors.

Acceleration and Performance

According to Rivian, the all-wheel-drive, quad-motor R1S has an impressive 835hp, 908 worth of Torque and covers a speed of 60 miles per hour in just three seconds. This is slightly faster than the iX, which maintains about 60 miles per hour in a record four seconds. However, a moderate pushing of the throttle and you get thrust deep into your seat as the car is sent rocketing forward. 

The Innovative Design and Features of the Rivan R1S SUV

Rivan is known for having a soft spot for nature, which explains why their models, mainly the R1s, are designed to support outdoor hobbies like skiing, biking, and camping. That makes the R1s the ultimate off-road brute capable of tackling slippery climbs and frightening obstacles without the slightest hitch. The SUV boasts multiple off-roading settings and modes for various terrains and activities, be it crawling rocks, wading through streams, or drifting off into the wild. 

However, the iX is the ultimate highway kid who fits better in less rugged terrains. And with the R1S, it’s easy to see what’s ahead and place the tires on the appropriate terrain, thanks to the Gear Guard feature that switches the camera in every direction outside the vehicle. 

Even more fascinating is the R1s innovative features and designs, such as its extensive back that can fit an air bed (twin-sized) and which you can pump up with the integrated air compressor. The classy flashlight and Bluetooth speaker beneath the center console come in handy during those camping trips or bonfires at the beach. But it gets even more sophisticated when you can conveniently close your car using multiple ways: a high-level smartphone app, a rubber bracelet (fully waterproof), or a key card. 

Furthermore, the R1S’s minimalist interior is unmatched. Forget the usual knobs and buttons that are the clutter in most vehicles. With this SUV, you can control almost every car function from the extensive touchscreen. That would work unless you prefer the traditional way of controlling A/C and air vents with a simple button. But like we said, it’s a forward-thinking car, and you’re better off learning the ropes and keeping up sooner. 

Interior Comparison of the Rivian R1s and BMW iX

Moreover, only the Rivian R1s provide you with a front-positioned trunk, something you won’t find even in the equally sophisticated iX. However, the BMW model has a luxurious interior that even the R1S can’t match, not in the exact opulent way. The moment you slip inside iX, you sink into luxurious leather seats that cradle you comfortably into place. 

From there, you can control everything from the dual massage functionality screens mounted on a curved panel on the dashboard. But other than that, the technology and software in the iX are minimal and relatively straightforward, something most reserved buyers find preferable. 

The Differences in Steering Wheels

The one thing you’ll find weird about the BMW’s IX is its hexagonal steering wheel. While it may look strange, the wheel is designed to give the car a sporty feel while offering comfort and control.

In contrast, the Rivian R1S has a flat bottom, focusing on comfort over performance. The wheel is designed to give drivers more thigh room and better comfort while driving. Additionally, the wheel is heated for added comfort during winter months. It also features a modern 12.3-inch driver display that shows the current speed and other information.

BMW’S iX and Rivan R1s are great electric vehicles, and your best choice depends on your preference. You can go for the old-school luxury offered by the iX, or if you’re into rugged, over-the-edge tech, pick the R1S. 

BMW iX vs. Rivian R1s: Must-Know Facts

• Both SUVs have big batteries, but Rivian R1S has a much larger one, stacking up at 128.9 kWh against BMW iX’s106.3 kWh. 
• The two cars have double electric motors, but the R1S is more powerful than the iX. 
• The iX features an impressive M60, 610 horsepower, and 811 lb-ft of Torque. However, the Rivian is a monster, boasting 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft. 
• The Rivian is heavier, with a capacity of up to 6,986 lbs, against the Bimmer’s average of 5,778 lbs.
• Both cars have nearly the same EPA-approved ranges with a slight difference of 3 miles on the iX part. The BMW’s model boasts a range of 324 miles against R1s 321 miles. 
• The Rivian, as a startup, is a more forward-thinking vehicle, while the BMW iX is more traditional but just as sophisticated. 
• The BMW iX has a sporty, funkier look though it’s still aesthetically appealing, while the Rivian R1S has a vintage, retro boxy look.
• The Rivian R1S is more tech-focused and an excellent option for the tech-savvy driver than the iX minimalist features that would work best for the old-school driver.

BMW iX vs. Rivian R1s: Which Is Better? Which One Should You Use? 

You might find an electric SUV with the best attributes, but there is no compromise with the Rivian R1S and BMW iX. Both offer excellent performance, multiple tech features, unmatched convenience, and long-distance capabilities. So which of the two is worth your time and money? Let’s look at some of their features, shall we? 

Performance 

On performance, it’s not easy to tell the winner from the word go. Both machines are monstrous as far as power is concerned. The BMW iX boasts two electric-powered motors, producing 610hp in the M60 trim. But this is no match for the majestic Rivian R1S, which packs four motors generating an obscene 835hp and 938 pound-feet worth of Torque. 

In late 2023, the Rivan is set to introduce another substitute, the double-motor all-wheel-drive model with an equal 600 horsepower. The iX has an acceleration of zero to sixty miles per hour in just 4.2 seconds. That’s faster than most EVs, trampling the Jaguar I-Pace and Audi e-tron. But that still doesn’t match the 3.4 seconds it takes the Rivian to reach the same speed. 

At this point, it’s easy to see which car is quicker and the ultimate winner of the two. On standard terrains, the iX is sportier, engaging, and easy to drive. For off-road trips, the Rivian wins hands down as the ultimate beast again. Thanks to the fully flexible air suspension, this SUV presents an impressive ground clearance of up to 15 inches. Add to that its four motors, and you enjoy maximum control over the wheels and precise traction on rough terrain.

Charging and Range 

Both SUVs feature large batteries with positive EPA range evaluations. The Rivian R1S offers an impressive 321 miles range, whereas the BMW iX’s range is slightly higher, standing at 324 miles. The official estimate by the manufacturer is 321 and 324 miles, respectively. The iX can go as far as 350+ when fully charged, with the Rivian maintaining an impressive 330 miles range. 

However, you should remember that your exact mileage depends on your terrain, state of the road, and driving skills. Regarding charging, both vehicles take the same time to charge up. A minimum of 30 and a maximum of 40 minutes is what it takes to get your battery from 10 to 80 percent at a high-powered, fast-charging DC station. However, on a home charger (Level 2), you must charge your SUV between 11 to 12 hours. 

Interior and Tech

The BMW iX has earned a few names for its angular, angry look, but many agree that the interior is the most stunning compared to the Rivian’s R1S. It combines high-quality materials and a futuristic design that resonates with the modern driver with a keen eye on style and taste. 

Its signature features are the two wide enjoined screens, comprising the instrument panel and central display, which you can operate from the sleek touchscreen. In addition, BMW’s operating system provides seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, something the Rivian surprisingly lacks. 

The Rivian also has a stunning interior, but not as stylish as the BMW’s. Instead, this car’s interior is mainly practical, featuring multiple storage compartments and onboard navigation. It has a fancy dual gauge cluster and infotainment screens. Still, its inability to provide phone app access is a massive letdown to the digital driver. That makes the iX the ultimate winner in this case.

Value and Pricing 

The BMW iX Mega SUV is not affordable, at least not for the average buyer. It starts at $83,000 and goes up to $110,000 depending on the trim and features. But when you look at the car’s features and performance, you realize the price is reasonable. And it comes with a 4-year warranty, 36,000 miles worth of cost-free basic maintenance, and free charging for up to 24 months.  

While Rivian R1S’s estimated starting price is $78,000, the entry model has yet to be available, and it will take some time before it hits the market. And even before it does, the BMW iX will have already made its mark in the EV SUV segment. The brand offers a five-year warranty, better coverage than that of BMW.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©VanderWolf Images/Shutterstock.com.