The clash of the giants: rivian r1s vs. land rover defender compared
What To Know
- The Defender, on the other hand, has a fuel economy of 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
- The Defender, on the other hand, is a more affordable and versatile option that is well-suited for a wider range of users.
- The Rivian R1S has a more spacious interior than the Land Rover Defender, with seating for up to seven people and a larger cargo area.
When it comes to off-road adventures, two names stand out: the Rivian R1S and the Land Rover Defender. Both vehicles offer impressive capabilities, but which one is the better choice for your next adventure? This comprehensive comparison will explore the strengths and weaknesses of the Rivian R1S and the Defender, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance
Power and Torque
The Rivian R1S boasts four electric motors that produce a combined output of 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Land Rover Defender is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that generates 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The R1S’s electric powertrain provides instant acceleration and superior torque at low speeds, giving it an edge in off-road situations.
Acceleration and Top Speed
The Rivian R1S can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.0 seconds, while the Defender takes a more leisurely 5.8 seconds. The R1S’s top speed is electronically limited to 125 mph, while the Defender’s top speed is 130 mph.
Range and Fuel Economy
The Rivian R1S has an estimated range of up to 314 miles on a single charge. The Defender, on the other hand, has a fuel economy of 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. While the R1S’s range is impressive, the Defender’s fuel efficiency gives it a longer range between fill-ups.
Off-Road Capabilities
Ground Clearance and Approach/Departure Angles
The Rivian R1S has a ground clearance of 14.9 inches, compared to the Defender’s 11.5 inches. The R1S also has better approach and departure angles (34.3 degrees and 30.1 degrees, respectively) than the Defender (38 degrees and 40 degrees). This gives the R1S a clear advantage in tackling rough terrain.
Suspension and Traction Control
Both the Rivian R1S and the Defender feature advanced suspension systems that provide excellent articulation and stability. The R1S’s adaptive air suspension allows it to adjust its ride height and damping to suit different terrains. The Defender’s Terrain Response 2 system offers multiple driving modes that optimize the vehicle’s performance for different surfaces.
Water Wading Depth
The Rivian R1S can wade through water up to 3 feet deep, while the Defender can handle up to 33 inches of water. While both vehicles are capable of handling water crossings, the R1S’s slightly deeper wading depth gives it an edge in flooded areas.
Interior
Seating and Cargo Space
The Rivian R1S has a spacious interior with seating for up to seven people. The second row of seats can be folded down to create a large cargo area, while the third row of seats can be removed entirely to maximize cargo capacity. The Defender also has a spacious interior, but its seating capacity is limited to five people.
Technology and Features
The Rivian R1S comes standard with a 16-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a premium sound system, and a host of advanced driver assistance systems. The Defender offers a 10-inch touchscreen, a Meridian sound system, and a range of driver assistance features. While the R1S has a more modern and intuitive infotainment system, the Defender’s off-road-focused features give it an edge in rugged environments.
Price and Availability
The Rivian R1S starts at $78,000, while the Land Rover Defender starts at $54,200. The R1S is only available in the United States, while the Defender is available worldwide.
Final Verdict
The Rivian R1S and the Land Rover Defender are both excellent choices for off-road adventures. However, the R1S’s superior performance, off-road capabilities, and spacious interior make it the better choice for those seeking the ultimate off-road experience. The Defender, on the other hand, is a more affordable and versatile option that is well-suited for a wider range of users.
What You Need to Learn
Which vehicle has better off-road performance?
The Rivian R1S has better off-road performance than the Land Rover Defender due to its higher ground clearance, better approach/departure angles, and more advanced suspension system.
Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
The Rivian R1S has a more spacious interior than the Land Rover Defender, with seating for up to seven people and a larger cargo area.
Which vehicle is more affordable?
The Land Rover Defender is more affordable than the Rivian R1S, with a starting price of $54,200 compared to $78,000 for the R1S.
