Rivian is currently receiving significant attention in the automotive industry, thanks to its stylish vehicles packed with innovative software features. While much focus has been on Rivian’s future roadmap, the current lineup also boasts a host of impressive features that often go unnoticed. After a week of driving a second-generation Rivian R1S, I discovered several standout features that deserve more recognition.
Among the multitude of small software features and buttons enhancing the Rivian driving experience, some gems stand out. Here are a few of my favorite Rivian features that don’t always get the spotlight they deserve.
Driver Presets
One key advantage of owning a Rivian is its heavy reliance on software, allowing for personalized settings every time you enter the vehicle. This feature becomes particularly valuable for households where multiple individuals share the same car. By using phone keys to identify the driver, modern Rivian vehicles can adjust seating, drive modes, and climate controls to match individual preferences.
Kneel Mode
The Rivian R1S offers a unique Kneel Mode supported by its air suspension technology, which lowers the vehicle’s suspension to facilitate easier entry and exit. Additionally, features like Camp Mode utilize the air suspension to optimize comfort when camping inside the vehicle and conserve energy efficiently.
The iPhone Widget
Enhancing user experience beyond the car’s infotainment system, Rivian ensures seamless integration with external devices like the iPhone. The iPhone widget enables quick control over functions such as locking, unlocking, and opening various compartments. While some minor glitches may occur, the overall app design and accessibility make it a valuable tool for managing settings.
Built-in Garage Door Opener
Rivian incorporates a handy garage door opener feature that allows users to program garage remotes directly into the vehicle. By tapping a button on the interface upon arriving home, users can effortlessly open and close their garage doors without the need for separate remote controllers.
Charging Status Light Bar
Exclusive to the second-generation R1S and R1T models, Rivian introduces a segmented LED light bar at the front to indicate vehicle status, including charging levels. This visual cue provides a quick way to assess the car’s charge status and complements existing digital methods for monitoring battery levels.
Driving the R1S for a week only scratched the surface of its abundant features and settings. Exploring the full potential of Rivian’s software by personalizing presets and profiles can unlock a wealth of capabilities for an enriching driving experience.
