Tesla Model X vs. Rivian R1S: The Ultimate Electric SUV Showdown!

[@TelecomDr]

1/2 the video just goes over specs which you can get anywhere. Wish more time was spent on how people actually fit in it for road trips. Had a chance to be different but missed the mark.

[@Jambaman84]

As someone who was looking at these two vehicles for a family of 5. It was a no brainer, the R1S is far superior. So much more space, cargo and for people. I am 5'10 and can comfortably sit in the 3rd row of the R1S.. I tried that in the Model X, and could not do it. There's also minimal cargo space in the X.. We couldn't even fit our stroller in the trunk. Plus the 330 miles is on paper. Our model Y gets 330 on paper, but we've never gotten more than 250 miles driving that car. Tesla is horrible with range. Our Rivian actually gets the full range, if not close to it. Couldn't be happier with the choice. If you are a family of 4 or fewer, I'd say X or even the Y.. but for families of 5 or larger, go R1S!

[@DirtyBeemer1]

Reliability. That’s the only thing that scares me with the Rivian.

[@robp3431]

If anything, Model X is closer to station wagon ....why not call it a station wagon or shooting brake or just a sedan with rear doors that make no sense ?

[@JeremyJ]

I found out some new interesting things like the miles per minute, but you didn’t speak to the size of the cargo areas or room for people based on how tall or short they are. That info is really critical for pragmatic owners. For instance. Bigger families may like the space in the R1S vs the X, but one thing I found is that my wife is so short that she has to have the seat all the way forward, low to the ground and steering wheel pushed back to comfortably reach the peddles on the R1S, as for me it’s perfect because I am 6’2.

[@shilvock22]

At the end of the day it's kind of a silly comparison since these are such different vehicles. It's like comparing a Grand Wagoneer to a Pacifica Limited. They have similar specs in a lot of ways but also a ton of differences and the people buying them will know which one they want based on how they're going to use it and what they want to say about themselves. Also, it would have been good to mention the difference in interior design approach, another area where a lot of people will know which one to get based on a HUGE difference.

[@howifixedit.9076]

I think it actually makes sense to compare because there are so few options for larger EV SUV’s with similar price points. You have R1S, MX, BMW iX, Audi e-Tron..

[@shilvock22]

@@howifixedit.9076 really the only similarities are that they are electric vehicles that hold six people and are similarly priced. Everything else about them is different.

[@richardalexander5758]

Picked up a Model X a few weeks ago, and very happy with the build, and all the features. No problems at all in the first 1500 miles. Hard to imagine anybody needing more performance than the long range version...passing on two lane roads is as fast as my 1000 cc Kawasaki. And the horn is now in the center of the steering wheel! Thank you Tesla!!!

[@justin9152]

Couldn't be me. The Model X looks old af in 2024.

[@ipodtouchfreak100]

@@justin9152design is timeless

[@MrTeslaX]

As a current MX owner, I find R1S miles better than MX and is a true SUV. For long trips I would still choose tesla simply cos of FSD and better charging network.

[@catholicexplorer9231]

Tesla X for the win, very innovative and tech oriented

[@georgelai2810]

It’s so laughable that they even call the Tesla model X an SUV. Bro, let’s get real. Model X is NO SUV. It’s tiny. It’s a crime that they label the model X and Y an “SUV”.

[@jaredvegas]

I’m dying for a model x but the exterior hasn’t been changed since it was released (besides fogs). Auto doors are amazing, did they push an update for the front doors to auto open fully?

[@michael6589]

Nope, both of my MXs falcon wing doors have broken over 5 times each. I doubt they’ll roll out the fully auto opening front doors because they can’t even get their falcon wing doors to work properly

[@Annette_Hons]

@@michael6589 what year is your model x?

[@howifixedit.9076]

Good point. At this rate Tesla Vision will be able to handle the front doors by 2035

[@JPatel1995]

@@michael6589wow you’re lucky .. both my MX falcon wing doors broke 15 times each… and the battery died and Tesla made me pay $30k to replace it and I killed someone when using autopilot and there’s no buttons so i can’t adjust the climate control and there’s no noise so it has no soul 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@NJturtlePower]

Zero issues with my 2023 Model X FWD's so far... fingers crossed.

[@michael6589]

Not going to lie, I was excited for this because my 2 MXs (2017 and 2023) are crap and falling apart. I’m a bit disappointed you didn’t mention the difference from driver+ and autopilot differences. Could you do a comparison of those?

[@herbfst]

If your model X's are falling apart I would bet any car you own will have the same issue.

[@Annette_Hons]

Saying your model X’s are “falling apart” what does that mean exactly, especially the 2023? What’s so “bad” about it? Apparently you liked the 2017 enough to go ahead an purchase a 2023 model, so what happened? Would you buy another one?

[@Alss383]

Like the yoke steering wheel that peels apart .

[@tashi282]

as an owner of 2017 MX -it shows you don't own one-there're lots of haters pretending to be an owner.

[@Alss383]

@tashi282 I've replace high voltage batteries, inverters, drive units ,wiring harnesses, suspension repairs , HVAC repairs and steering wheels . Lots of other things too. Don't need to own it to see what's wrong.

[@USUG0]

one is an efficient glorified minivan. The other is a less efficient proper off roader

[@JPatel1995]

Oh man I love reading the idiots comments on KZbin .. “Glorified mini van” “Proper off roader” 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@USUG0]

@@JPatel1995 your comment certainly qualifies

[@JPatel1995]

@@USUG0 Thats right my comments always be proper to the glorified car enthusiast

[@USUG0]

@@JPatel1995 whatever makes you happy, sweety

[@Mkvkuv]

The model x is barely a mini van. It's awkward shape makes the 3rd row almost useless. A mini van can fit adults in the rear

[@NRV44]

Youu should make a video of both cars' technology. For example, Tesla FSD vs Rivian w/e they have. KZbin, Music, Games and all other apps.

[@prestonkim7962]

I’ve owned 2 model X. And there is no comparison. R1S is infinitely better.

[@nickbastida6231]

What makes it better?

[@herbfst]

You compare the two but they are different enough that I believe most will be able to justify their priorities. Whether it is off-road SUV or Faster on roader/van like vehicle.

[@aloodena5196]

The Lucid Gravity looks interesting.

[@DrEarbuds]

Respect for having the SUV's clean for this review . Great video

[@Annette_Hons]

And this is where I’m at right now! I am torn between the Model X (5 seat) and the R1S. But I also like the Mach E as well. I just can’t decide.

[@mikesevgarage]

All are good options depending on your use case. I’m surprised you are cross shopping the Mach E with the X and R1S. The Mach E is much smaller and less capable than these 2. I would cross shop the Model Y, Ioniq5, and EV6 against the Mach E 👍

[@JustinJS]

I’ve owned 3 Tesla and opted for an R1T. It feels much more premium than the teslas for the same price.

[@JPatel1995]

BMW is the best .. it’s that simple.

[@guccisasha]

Tesla, I own both, go for the Tesla with FSD, never look back. My R1S, leaves me wanting more, and I find myself driving my Tesla model S, versus the R1s, both new both under 3 months old.

[@Mkvkuv]

@@JPatel1995 I thought it was bmw ice car?

[@Matt.e_Black]

I’ve had 4 Teslas and recently purchased an R1S; LOVE IT!! Rivian is a much more quality product! Also, comparing rated range is apples to oranges. Rivian is actually what it’s rated at and Tesla is NOT

[@skytom88]

Financially, if you qualify for tax credits on either of these, you can’t really afford it (in my opinion)

[@naveengi]

Great review, I test drove both R1S and MX , you can't even compare ride quality of both , If I really need a real off roader into the wild , its better to go with gas option (where will you charge an EV ) . MX can handle off road to an extent. But for me, 99% , I'll use it on road. FSD now is amazing. Im picking up my MXP tomorrow , i realized that with 6 seater option , MXP is not that of a price difference with LRMX , and MXP has better resale value after 3 years if I want to upgrade. If I am qualified for the tax credit , I'd have taken the MX 5seater.

[@norcalpacific]

You said you can't even compare the ride quality of the two. are you saying one is superior than the other? which had better ride quality when you test drove?

[@runbuh]

Rivian had (has?) some really crazy lease deals on the Gen 1's now that the G2's have been announced. I just leased a quad motor R1S (with the 7,500 lease credit).

[@ottie8554]

So when all is said and done, it really just comes down to the super cool doors and the FSD. I feel like thats honestly the only reason I am having such a hard time pulling the trigger and making a decision. The 0-60 doesnt really matter to me all that much because even the 3 second range is stupid fast. The 7 seats I could take or leave they will most likely always be folded down anyway for the space. The falcon wing doors, the auto door open on approach and the FSD make the X stand out but my brain knows i have told myself i am shopping for an SUV and the rivian IS an SUV while the X is a really fancy minivan. Every day i am back and forth with this decision.

[@GLifeServices]

Go with the R1S. It is way more versatile unless you're just going to be racing people at the track.

[@ayushmalpeddi2793]

Technically can't go wrong with either. Aside from the 20% efficiency hit, being slightly slower, and less refinement in software/ADAS (still adequante), I think the Rivian R1S Dual Motor is the much better value. Specifcally a Standard+ Dual Motor Rivian which costs less than a Model X while offering a lot more car. Has basically the same range of the Model X while offer way more space and capability as a real SUV. On the other hand if you don't need a proper 7 seater, the Model X is a better choice for handling/ride.

[@Luisslzr7]

I’m having this debate hard right now. I believe right now with the purchase of FSD you get 1 added paid option. In my case I’d do the standard X with FSD and that gives me the 6 seater option for free while still getting the $7,500 tax credit. 335 miles of range and 0-60 at 3.8. All for $80k. R1S Adventure Dual Large $82k with 330 miles of range and 0-60 at 4.5 Drove both, R1S feels like a standard SUV while the X is more planted to the ground, specially on acceleration. X feels more comfortable as far as drivability. Interior of R1S is a lot nicer (IMO) and just a tad more comfortable unless you option for Tesla’s white seats (but that’ll take off your tax credit)…decisions, decisions

[@chloeconger]

I’m surprised there’s no mention of FSD here-that is a huge factor for me I will never do a road trip without Tesla FSD again

[@paulbram2]

Rivian charging curve is better than the Cyber truck.

[@robyoung878]

R1S is roomier inside and has a frunk that is much bigger. Better off road and tows a lot more too

[@TestTranslator]

Can you compare driver + to Autopilot and FSD?

[@guccisasha]

i have both, no comparison, FSD, and never look back. that's why i regret getting the r1s. i drive mostly my tesla, stress and fatigue free driving since the fsd 12 came out.

[@TestTranslator]

@@guccisasha I may just wait for my Cybertruck reservation then. I was hoping that Driver + was serviceable on highway trips.

[@AidPast]

@TestTranslator don’t get #CyberStuck!

[@TestTranslator]

@@AidPast Model X is something I would be interested in if I could get one with the 6 seat configuration and under the tax credit cap.

[@williamelkington5430]

Really good review! Thanks very much! There are a lot of areas in the country that are flood-prone. Or flood-vulnerable. The R1S is the clear choice here, with over three feet of wading depth.

[@rockelino]

Just bought a Model X, great video!

[@danielam3829]

There really is no comparison between the 2. The gull wing doors and lack of ability to mount things on the roof are the deal breaker for me. I think if the X lost those rear gull wings and put in some accessory ports on the roof, it would be a much more versatile vehicle. The software in the Tesla is much better though. I do wish the R1S had it. It has the basic adaptive cruise control, lane keep on highways. I don’t have a Model X, but do have a MYLR. The sound system in the MYLR $55K sounds better than the Rivian R1S $100K vehicle. I think it has something to do with the size and shape of the cabin. I imagine the X would sound even better.

[@JoeyGoesRawr]

Great video! Thanks :)

[@GONAVYCHIEF]

I'm thinking Rivian is going to end up getting absorbed into a bigger company. Their cashflow is not looking so hot. It's a shame. Nice vehicles but startups have trouble weathering the tough times compared to large vehicle manufacturers.

[@dtallornothing]

The EV9 would also be another great comparison in this space, seems like its winning over reviewers as well

[@NJturtlePower]

Yes, he mentioned the EV9 at the end. Problem with Kia is dealing with a dealership and "market adjustment" pricing BS. Until that's under control I'm not interested in anything outside direct to consumer EV's. My wife currently has a 2012 Telluride. I picked up a new 2023 Model X LR last fall as a Tesla owner since 2018. I've had two Model 3's and the X is no comparison IMO...except maybe the interior fit/finish, where the X has a few rattles and creaking I wish it didn't, but a hell of a value with the full Federal incentive and ZERO EV sales tax here in NJ.

[@Don.Steve.]

Thanks for a great video. I love the R1S but it sits too high for my elderly mother to get in when I have to take her places. Think I will have time go with the X next year.

[@awash7156]

You know it has an adjustable air suspension, right? It can get pretty low and you can enable “kneel mode” so that the vehicle lowers when it’s put into “park”

[@rufusperry6168]

Put some running boards on it. Your grandma can get in without too much trouble..

[@Don.Steve.]

Tried it 3 weeks ago at Rivian center. It was too high at lowest possible setting using the updated software. She is unable to step up or climb. Not doing a 2 vehicle solution unless one is a Cybertruck.

[@willberg8599]

Surprisingly unbiased review by a bearded with Tesla in his name

[@jabareo]

To me the Rivian R1S doesn’t have an unique enough exterior. It looks like an electric version of the Jeep Wagoneer.

[@paulbram2]

Wait, but the X looks just like every other Tesla ever. Rivian is a breath of fresh air.

[@pud51]

You cannot compare the rated range between these 2 as an apples to apples comparison. Tesla fudges the numbers where Rivian reflects reality. Get off your knees, you know better.

[@BeardedTeslaGuy]

I’m sorry, I can’t use arbitrary numbers Willy nilly whenever I like. I use the numbers approved by the EPA 🤷‍♂️

[@jagkahlon]

Could not deal with the falcon wing doors, imagine you are in a not so good neighborhood- security risk waiting for them to close. Went with R1s

[@vex4010]

That’s because Rivians are over priced and don’t have no good tax credit for the R1S would sell more if it qualified full for the tax credit and would be around 70K-75K.

[@Kmelnuk1]

You get it in a lease and can buyout anytime.

[@safariguy]

...but the Model X isn't an SUV. It's a hatchback, of sorts. More of a car/sedan than any sort of SUV. SUV only in name for purposes of taxes, which was genius, but it's not an SUV. Q: would you take it offroad or even down a logging road? Nope. Then it isn't an SUV.

[@jezza6575]

😂Very few “SUV’s” would meet your qualifications nowadays, but I hear what you’re saying. I would more classify the X as a crossover or maybe a minivan.

[@trbizwiz1]

Have you ever driven an X or a Toyota Sienna? They may look different on the outside, but they are very familiar on the inside. You can easily make the argument that a Y is not an SUV. I own an X, 3, and Y. X is definitely an SUV on the inside. Y feels like a car to me.

[@bigsky8917]

This is a review that seems to emphasize the tech and miss the obvious: what an SUV is or should be. The R1S is the epitome of what an SUV should be. It is not perfect, what all it does, it does it better than any other vehicle. The R1S is no Model X, and the Model X is no R1S. I dare say that calling the Model X an SUV is a misnomer (did it complete the Rubicon trail for example, like the R1S did, stock?). In terms of tech, absolutely, hands down Teslas are better, but the tech that the R1S has is no slacker, either. The R1S still has an extremely comfortable, quiet ride, and it was built for off-roading, which let us face it, the Model X is not really meant for. And the R1S is plenty fast, awfully fast on the road; none of that matters much on the trail. Not taking away from either, especially the Model X. It is an awesome vehicle. And I own two Teslas also (MSP and MYP); tend to think I know what I am talking about. Some have commented that Teslas feel as if one is riding on the ground. With the R1S, I have a commanding view of the road, what an SUV should be, and it feels and it is a large beast! In my view, this is more like comparing and apple to an orange. Both are outstanding vehicles in their own right, but in terms of a TRUE SUV, there is one and one only: RIVIAN R1S, the undisputed king of the true SUVs. Very glad that I can charge mine at several Tesla superchargers and that I do not need to pay a surcharge. Appreciate your review; have watched several of your videos. It just does not seem like a fair comparison to either of the two. Respectfully, thank you.

[@NJturtlePower]

What percent of "SUV's" in the US do you think EVER leave the pavement? Very Very few, they are an evolution of the minivan, parking lot haulers and soccer mom transport.... 99%+.

[@MrTeslaX]

Best comment

[@berthogendoorn2133]

Only Big SUV you missed the very Popular Kia EV9

[@NJturtlePower]

If you watched the full video he didnt haha

[@COO415]

I had my Tesla X - 7 seater delivered. My kids never knew about the order. Brought them down & said guys this is your new car. All were jumping & screaming, except my 13 yr old son, who said, you brought me all the way down the elevator to show me a Tesla X?. I wish, it's a Rivian. Have it on vid for the records 😂. I could've gone with the Rivian but when it comes charging experience, Tesla blew them all out of water. And here we are. Must add, some wicked beard there buddy 😊

[@rodneynasir8089]

Model X is a badass minivan and you can’t change my mind. Other than sliding doors it has those wing doors to get the kids out. FYI I love minivans.

[@GLifeServices]

This was a lazy, lazy video. It reminded me a lot of the reviews that the Verge does where they compare the iPhone to a Samsung or something, and at the end basically have no real new information or pick either one over the other. It's clear you just wanted to increase your view times. Let's consider the fact that the R1S has multiple drive modes depending on what kind of driving and/or terrain you plan on doing. Depending on what model or package you choose, you have specific driving settings for everything from street, to off-road, to snow, to soft sand. The Model X only gives you a few adjustments for height and acceleration. The interface is also completely different than a Tesla and gives you feedback for all kinds of things from battery temp to elevation and pitch. If you had actually done any real driving or testing of the 2 cars that were parked behind you the entire time, people would be able to see the distinct differences. That wasn't even mentioned, let alone displayed in your comparison. You could have talked about the differences in the connectivity of both vehicles as well as the fact that the R1S has 2 screens visible to the driver. Or, the fact that the R1S has all kinds of storage space that the MX doesn't. The frunk is big enough for a dead body and the back is enormous, too. Plenty of space for cargo AND 5 passengers. The Rivian also has different wheel and tire configurations that the Tesla does not have. Even simple things like the sound and entertainment systems, included air compressors, flashlights or speakers, climate control for all passengers, security, and safety...all missed for repeated comments about 6 or 7-passenger configurations... Don't get me wrong, I think Tesla makes amazing vehicles. But, this video didn't offer enough information for someone trying to decide to leave their ICE vehicle for an EV. It's clear that Tesla paved the way for everyone else in this space right now, and I will always like their cars. But, it would have been more prudent to even say, "For those of you who need a luxury SUV and make more frequent trips to the mall over anything else...the Model X is your car. If you want a car that opens and closes the doors automatically for you and can totally smoke any muscle car on the road while also offering the ability to watch Netflix while you wait for your kids, pick up a Model X. However, for those of you who may have more active lifestyles, do some camping or at least pic-nicking, need to be able to accommodate work gear, AND still go faster than 90% of the cars on the road, the R1S is for you. Whether you live somewhere that has 1 season or 4, the Rivian can adjust to any of them and offer a more comfortable ride." And of course, by purchasing a Rivian, you don't have to be worried that the owner is going to donate some of the money you spent on the car to the campaign of a wannabe dictator. Good luck with the next video.

[@daniellove391]

This guy sure likes to take his time to get to the point goodness!🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@justin9152]

Model X design looks too old for a new SUV EV in 2024.

[@volfan615]

A little bit of a Tesla fan boy huh?

[@Abevlife]

If you need 7 seats, you CAN NOT recommend Tesla no matter how good the charging network is.

[@Galileo9.81]

Thanks BTG. Apparently, I am done with EVs until somebody comes up with EV minivans with 500+ miles of range under $50k.

[@NJturtlePower]

Dumbest argument that continues. Nobody needs 500+ mi range without stopping and why does everyone expect top tech EV's priced for the masses? Silly

[@Karlkn]

I could never buy a vehicle with as ugly front as the Rivian, never!

[@ianbladuell2694]

Tesla wins cause Rivian may not be around next year

[@1951703j]

but lets suppose it will be around, which is the better product?

[@JPatel1995]

Tesla is better regardless… I’ve driven both

[@sludog]

Can’t get past the R1S looks. Not very stylish and plain looking. I do like the R1T but way too overpriced.

[@shilvock22]

ha ha, are you sure you didn't mean the model X? I don't know anyone who thinks the Model X is good looking, most really like the Rivian's looks. But it's all subjective.

[@Alss383]

​@shilvock22 poor build quality too.

[@patrickhornacek8593]

Agreed, I can never get over the ugly head lights on Rivian’s. 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@davidcottrell570]

Model X 120lbs tongue weight, 5000lbs towing; R1S 810lbs tongue weight, 7000lbs towing. For me, that’s a show stopper - Tesla’s documentation for their hitch says not to exceed that 120lb number.

[@riceball777]

Model x tongue weight is 500 pounds and 5000 pounds for towing. The 120 pound limit is called vertical weight limit for bike racks and cargo boxes.

[@davidcottrell570]

@@riceball777 Teslas own documentation only states vertical weight and towing capacity. 500lbs is a calculated figure from towing capacity, which in practice will vary according to loading the trailer. It also has an 8 inch hitch height. I think I’ll stick with something I can put a bike rack and a couple of e-bikes on, or a small travel trailer when the fancy strikes us, without worrying about whether the car can take it. An Airstream Basecamp 16 for example has a hitch weight of around 450lbs without water in the tank, despite being just 3500lbs GVWR. The tongue height is about 17”. I’m sure the model X is a great family hauler, but the R1S is better suited to our needs, and has access to the Supercharger network in addition to CCS1.

[@Kevin19700]

Rivian is headed towards the dustbin of history. Soon to be an “orphan” brand, this company just does not sell enough vehicles to be economically sustainable in the long run.

[@ayushmalpeddi2793]

That was Tesla at one point too

[@OriginalEvil]

Totally not bais... Base model Rivian vs top of the line tesla. Also Rivian is backed by Ford.

[@NJturtlePower]

Not sure what video you watched... he mentioned all the different trims and price points if you listen.

[@Dangerspeed862]

Rivian is very overrated personally

[@nunohannover]

Rivian= a dead man walking…..

[@shilvock22]

I think that's an oversimplification and probably very far from the truth and how this industry will shake out. Even if they can't solve their financial problems, a TON of companies will line up to buy them, the least of which is Apple. So thinking that Rivian will some day disappear and leave customers high and dry is only in the hopeful dreams of Tesla worshipers.

[@davidcottrell570]

Ya know, Tesla went through a crisis too, as have most North American car makers. It takes massive amounts of money to start a new business like this, and there are more than a few people trying to push theirs and Tesla’s demise by shorting stocks for profit. They employ a lot of people in good jobs and are spending billions innovating to build cars that don’t pollute us back to the Dark Ages. Rivian has plans to produce smaller cheaper cars, but you’d prefer to believe they don’t have a chance. Oil has had its day, so your options are a Tesla, a bike or a horse. You choose. I hope Rivian makes it work.