The Rivian R3S: A Hot Hatch Enthusiast’s Electric Dream
As a hot hatch enthusiast, you’re probably accustomed to the roar of a turbocharged engine, the thrill of a manual gearbox, and the sheer joy of a car that’s both practical and performance oriented. But what if I told you that the future of hot hatches might not involve gasoline at all? Enter the Rivian R3S, an electric SUV that promises to deliver all the thrills of a hot hatch, but with a twist.
A New Kind of Hot Hatch
The Rivian R3 is a compact electric SUV that looks like a cross between a serious off-roader and a hot hatchback from the 80’s. It’s being touted as an even smaller SUV than the R2, with a 110-inch wheelbase compared to the R2’s 115-inch. Despite that, the R3 will come packed with many of the same elements as the R2 on the inside—like its dual glove boxes and door-mounted flashlight—but with a much shorter cargo area.
Thrills and Efficiency
The R3 will be available with two battery sizes. The largest pack is expected to deliver “over 300 miles of range” in three drivetrain configurations. Anticipate a 0-60-mph time of under three seconds. This speed is only on the triple-motor AWD version—two motors driving the rear wheels and a single motor driving the front, making it the highest-performing version of R3. For those seeking less performance, there will also be a dual-motor AWD and a single-motor RWD.
Cabin and Versatility
As a smaller SUV, the R3 will seat five with two up front and three in its folding second-row bench. All seats can fold flat and allow for true camper-style sleeping by fitting a full-length bed inside. The R3’s cabin appears smaller than that of the boxier R2, and its shorter overall length means cargo capacity isn’t likely to be as generous. Still, the cabin finishings look similar, and the front and rear seats both fold flat like the R2’s to accommodate long items and create a spacious area for car-camping.
The Verdict
The Rivian R3 is a daring new contender in the world of high-performance hatchbacks. It offers the practicality and fun factor that hatchback enthusiasts love, but with the added benefits of electric power. It’s a sign that the future of hatchbacks is bright, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
