Rivian has been around since 2009, but it’s just now beginning to really garner attention with SUVs like the R1S. This SUV is getting the attention of critics, and they like what they see. It’s a fantastic vehicle, but how does the R1S – and the Rivian R1S’s price – compare to the more well-established Lexus LX 600? 

There is a large price difference between the Rivian R1S and Lexus LX 600

Lexus, the luxury brand for Toyota, typically keeps its costs down when compared to other high-end brands. The 2023 LX 600 is rather pricey by any terms, however, with a starting price of $92,165. It tops out at $132,255.

The Rivian R1S, in comparison, is only $78,000 starting out. The highest-priced trim is around $90,000, which is still $2,000 less than the LX 600. For shoppers who can actually afford one of these vehicles, the question then becomes if the R1S is cheaper because it offers less or if the LX 600 is overpriced.

Which SUV is the better bargain?

Even though the Lexus LX 600 is a great vehicle, the Rivian R1S offers more for a superior price. The Rivian R1S is an electric vehicle, which means drivers are already saving on fuel. It also has a powerful 600-hp dual-motor electric powertrain, all-wheel drive, a 105-kWh battery, and a single-speed automatic transmission. There is a more powerful 835-hp motor available for an extra $8,000.

Some of the standard features found on the R1S are a rearview camera, forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, driver-attention monitoring, and more. There is even a surround-view parking camera system.

Rivian does tend to go with catchy-sounding names like “Adventure trim” or the “Kneel” driving mode, which allows the R1S to sit flat on uneven terrain. Many consumers will probably find this appealing, however, so it’s a good call that helps it stand out a little more in a crowded market. It can seat up to seven passengers, which is great for growing families or people who enjoy bringing along a crowd.

In comparison, the 2023 Lexus LX 600 comes with a 409 hp twin-turbo V6 and four-wheel drive. The LX also offers safety features like lane-departure warning, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitor, and road sign assist. It only has seating for five.

Even though the Lexus LX offers a lot, many buyers will probably be more drawn to the Rivian R1S, which offers many of the same features for a much lower price.

Critics are more receptive to the Rivian R1S

U.S. News seemed to be rather charmed by the Rivan R1S. The outlet gave it a score of 9.0 out of 10 and ranks it as the No. 1 luxury electric SUV.

Some of the factors that U.S. News enjoyed were the “whipcrack acceleration, lengthy maximum driving range, and upscale and spacious cabin.” What it didn’t like about was the Rivian R1S’s price tag and the infotainment controls.

U.S. News was also pleased with the R1S’s ability to go offroad. It’s probably not in the league of legends like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner, but it’s a solid choice for anyone who wants to hit the trails.

The only major options offered by Rivan are a Level 2 (240-volt) home charging station which costs $750, and a reinforced under-body shield for $2,000. This can come as a relief to car shoppers who just want to get in and out of the car-shopping process without haggling over features.

There are no questions that the Lexus LX offers a lot for drivers, and its reputation is top-notch. If you’re willing to take a chance on a lesser-known automaker, however, then the Rivian R1S is a much better deal.