BMW i5 vs Rivian R1S: Which EV is better?
Head-to-head: BMW i5 vs Rivian R1S. Compare real range, efficiency, charging time, price, rating and running costs to find the best electric vehicle for you in 2026.
The numbers that matter
Real, comparable stats from our database. The green value wins each category.
| Specification | i5 | R1S |
|---|---|---|
| Range i5 wins | 580 km | 507 km |
| Battery R1S wins | 81.2 kWh | 135 kWh |
| Efficiency i5 wins | 17.2 kWh/100km | 23.9 kWh/100km |
| 0-100 km/h R1S wins | 6 s | 3.1 s |
| Fast charge 10-80% i5 wins | ~30 min | ~40 min |
| Seats R1S wins | 5 | 7 |
| Price i5 wins | $67,000 | $78,000 |
| Rating R1S wins | 4.4 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Est. running cost / yr | $387/yr | $538/yr |
View the full specification sheet
| Specification | i5 | R1S |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 81.2 kWh | 135 kWh (large pack) |
| Range | 580 km (WLTP) | 315 mi (EPA) |
| Top speed | 193 km/h | 115 mph |
| Power | RWD · 335 hp | AWD · 835 hp |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.0 s | — |
| Charging (10-80%) | ~30 min (205kW) | ~40 min (300kW) |
| Drive | RWD | Quad motor AWD |
| Efficiency | 17.2 kWh/100 km | 2.6 mi/kWh |
| Seats | 5 | 7 |
| Cargo | 490 L | 104 cu ft |
| 0-60 mph | — | 3.1 s |
| V2L | — | Yes |
BMW i5
Pros
- Refined ride
- High-quality cabin
- Good range
- Strong charging speed
Cons
- Expensive
- Rear legroom tight for class
- Digital-only controls
- Base not the quickest
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 really better than BMW i5?
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 i5 or Rivian R1S?
580 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 $387/yr for the BMW i5 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?
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