BMW i4 eDrive40 vs Rivian R1S: Which EV is better?
Head-to-head: BMW i4 eDrive40 vs Rivian R1S. Compare real range, efficiency, charging time, price, rating and running costs to find the best electric vehicle for you in 2026.
Our verdict
Rivian R1S wins this head-to-head
It wins 5 of 8 categories compared below, with a margin of 2 category wins.
The numbers that matter
Real, comparable stats from our database. The green value wins each category.
| Specification | i4 eDrive40 | R1S |
|---|---|---|
| Range R1S wins | 484 km | 507 km |
| Battery R1S wins | 81.3 kWh | 135 kWh |
| Efficiency i4 eDrive40 wins | 16.8 kWh/100km | 23.9 kWh/100km |
| 0-100 km/h R1S wins | 5.5 s | 3.1 s |
| Fast charge 10-80% i4 eDrive40 wins | ~32 min | ~40 min |
| Seats R1S wins | 5 | 7 |
| Price i4 eDrive40 wins | $52,950 | $78,000 |
| Rating R1S wins | 4.5 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Est. running cost / yr | $378/yr | $538/yr |
View the full specification sheet
| Specification | i4 eDrive40 | R1S |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 81.3 kWh | 135 kWh (large pack) |
| Range | 301 mi (EPA) | 315 mi (EPA) |
| Top speed | 118 mph | 115 mph |
| Power | RWD · 335 hp | AWD · 835 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 s | 3.1 s |
| Charging (10-80%) | ~32 min | ~40 min (300kW) |
| Drive | RWD | Quad motor AWD |
| Seats | 5 | 7 |
| Efficiency | — | 2.6 mi/kWh |
| Cargo | — | 104 cu ft |
| V2L | — | Yes |
BMW i4 eDrive40
Pros
- Superb driving dynamics
- High-quality interior
- Comfortable and quiet
- Good range
Cons
- Expensive
- Charging speed not class-leading
- Narrow rear seat entry
- No frunk
Rivian R1S
Pros
- Insane performance
- Luxury interior
- Class-leading off-road
- 7 seats
Cons
- Very expensive
- Heavy
- Charging network still growing
- Service network limited
Frequently asked questions
Is the Rivian R1S really better than BMW i4 eDrive40?
Our verdict is based on real specs: range, battery, efficiency, acceleration, charging speed, seats, price and rating. The winner wins the majority of those categories, but the right choice depends on your budget, driving style and priorities.
Which has more range, BMW i4 eDrive40 or Rivian R1S?
484 km vs 507 km respectively, before factoring in weather and driving conditions.
Which is cheaper to run?
Based on official efficiency and a typical $0.15/kWh tariff at 15,000 km per year, running costs are estimated at $378/yr for the BMW i4 eDrive40 and $538/yr for the Rivian R1S.
Should I compare more models?
Yes - add both models to our interactive comparator to see every spec side by side, or use the Which EV quiz to find more models that fit your budget and lifestyle.
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Not sure which one is right for you?
Add these models to our interactive comparator and compare every spec side by side, or take the quiz to find even more matches.