Can You Lease a Rivian Suv

Yes, you can lease a Rivian SUV—specifically the R1S, the brand’s all-electric seven-passenger adventure vehicle. While Rivian doesn’t offer traditional third-party leasing through banks or credit unions, it provides its own in-house leasing program with flexible terms, competitive rates, and perks like roadside assistance and over-the-air updates.

So, you’ve been eyeing that sleek, futuristic Rivian R1S—the electric SUV that looks like it rolled out of a sci-fi movie and into your driveway. It’s rugged enough for mountain trails, spacious enough for the whole family, and packed with tech that feels straight out of tomorrow. But here’s the big question: *Can you lease a Rivian SUV?* The short answer? Absolutely. The longer, more exciting answer? Yes—and it might just be one of the smartest ways to experience the future of electric adventure.

Rivian, the Irvine-based automaker founded by RJ Scaringe, has taken a bold approach to vehicle ownership. Instead of relying on traditional dealerships and third-party financing, Rivian sells and leases directly to consumers through its website. This direct-to-consumer model cuts out the middleman, giving you a cleaner, more transparent process—whether you’re buying or leasing. And while the R1T pickup truck is currently only available for purchase, the R1S SUV is fully leaseable across most of the United States. That means you can get behind the wheel of a premium electric SUV with all the bells and whistles, without signing a 5- or 7-year loan.

But leasing a Rivian isn’t just about convenience—it’s about flexibility, innovation, and access to a vehicle that’s constantly evolving. With over-the-air updates, your Rivian gets smarter over time. Need better off-road navigation? A software update adds it. Want improved battery efficiency? Rivian pushes it remotely. Leasing lets you enjoy these upgrades without worrying about depreciation or long-term maintenance. Plus, with Rivian’s focus on sustainability and adventure, leasing an R1S aligns with a lifestyle that values exploration, technology, and environmental responsibility.

Key Takeaways

  • Leasing is available directly through Rivian: Unlike many automakers, Rivian handles leasing in-house, offering a streamlined, digital-first experience without third-party lenders.
  • Only the R1S SUV is lease-eligible: As of 2024, the R1T pickup truck is not available for lease, but the R1S seven-seater SUV is fully leaseable in most U.S. states.
  • Competitive monthly payments: Lease terms typically range from 24 to 36 months, with monthly payments starting around $900–$1,200 depending on trim, down payment, and location.
  • No need for a large down payment: Rivian allows low or even $0 down leases, making it easier to get into an electric SUV without a hefty upfront cost.
  • Includes premium features and support: Every lease comes with Rivian’s Adventure Network access, mobile service, and over-the-air software updates for the latest tech and performance improvements.
  • Early termination and buyout options: You can purchase your leased Rivian at the end of the term or return it, with clear guidelines on wear-and-tear and mileage limits.
  • Ideal for tech-savvy adventurers: Leasing lets you enjoy cutting-edge EV tech, off-road capability, and sustainable driving without long-term ownership commitment.

How Rivian Leasing Works

Leasing a Rivian SUV is refreshingly simple—especially if you’re used to the paperwork-heavy, negotiation-filled process at traditional dealerships. Rivian’s leasing program is entirely online, handled directly through the company’s website. There’s no haggling, no hidden fees, and no need to visit a physical location (though you can schedule a test drive or pickup at a Rivian service center if you’d like).

When you decide to lease, you’ll configure your R1S on Rivian’s configurator. Choose your trim (Explore, Adventure, or Launch Edition), battery size (Standard or Large), drivetrain (Dual-Motor or Quad-Motor), and any add-ons like the Max Pack battery or premium interior. Once you’ve built your ideal SUV, Rivian will generate a lease quote based on your selections, down payment, lease term, and estimated annual mileage.

Rivian offers lease terms of 24 or 36 months, which is standard in the industry. You can choose a down payment ranging from $0 to several thousand dollars—the more you put down, the lower your monthly payment. For example, a 36-month lease on an R1S Adventure Dual-Motor with a Large Battery might start around $999 per month with $0 down, or drop to around $849 per month with a $5,000 down payment. These numbers can vary by state due to taxes, fees, and incentives, but Rivian’s online calculator gives you a near-instant estimate.

One of the biggest advantages of leasing through Rivian is transparency. The company clearly outlines your monthly payment, total lease cost, mileage allowance (typically 10,000 miles per year), and any fees. There’s no surprise “acquisition fee” or “disposition fee” buried in the fine print—everything is upfront. Plus, Rivian includes roadside assistance, mobile service, and access to its growing network of Adventure Charging stations, so you’re covered whether you’re in the city or deep in the backcountry.

Lease vs. Buy: Which Is Right for You?

So, should you lease or buy your Rivian SUV? It depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how you plan to use the vehicle. Leasing is ideal if you like driving the latest technology, want lower monthly payments, and don’t mind returning the car after a few years. Buying makes more sense if you plan to keep the vehicle long-term, drive a lot of miles, or want to customize it heavily.

With a lease, you’re essentially renting the vehicle for a set period. You pay for the depreciation during that time, plus a finance charge and fees. At the end of the lease, you return the car (assuming it’s in good condition and within mileage limits) or buy it at the predetermined residual value. This setup is perfect for people who want to drive a new electric SUV every few years without the hassle of selling a used car.

Buying, on the other hand, means you own the vehicle outright once the loan is paid off. You can drive as many miles as you want, modify the interior or exterior, and keep it for a decade or more. However, you’ll face higher monthly payments and bear the full cost of depreciation, maintenance, and repairs after the warranty expires.

For many Rivian enthusiasts, leasing offers the best of both worlds: access to a cutting-edge EV with minimal long-term risk. You get to experience the R1S’s advanced features—like its quad-motor setup, air suspension, and gear tunnel—without committing to a 60- or 72-month loan. And since Rivian is still a relatively new brand, leasing lets you enjoy the vehicle while the company continues to refine its technology and service network.

Rivian R1S Lease Details and Pricing

Can You Lease a Rivian Suv

Visual guide about Can You Lease a Rivian Suv

Image source: electrek.co

As of 2024, the Rivian R1S is available for lease in most U.S. states, with pricing that reflects its premium positioning in the electric SUV market. The R1S starts at around $78,000 for the base Explore trim with a Standard Battery and Dual-Motor setup. However, most customers opt for the Adventure trim with a Large Battery and Quad-Motor configuration, which pushes the starting price closer to $90,000.

Lease payments vary based on several factors, including your credit score, down payment, lease term, and location. But here’s a realistic example: a 36-month lease on an R1S Adventure Quad-Motor with a Large Battery, $0 down, and 10,000 miles per year might cost around $1,150 per month. If you put $5,000 down, that could drop to around $999 per month. These figures include taxes and fees in most states, but it’s always wise to check your personalized quote on Rivian’s website.

Rivian’s lease pricing is competitive when compared to other luxury electric SUVs like the Tesla Model X, Mercedes EQS SUV, or BMW iX. While the R1S may have a higher starting price than some rivals, it offers unique features like a built-in air compressor, camp kitchen compatibility, and a waterproof front trunk (or “frunk”) that doubles as a gear locker. These adventure-ready extras add real value, especially for outdoor enthusiasts.

It’s also worth noting that federal and state EV incentives can significantly reduce your effective lease cost. While the federal tax credit doesn’t directly apply to leases (since you don’t own the vehicle), Rivian may pass on the savings in the form of a lower capitalized cost. Some states, like California and New York, offer additional rebates or tax credits for electric vehicle leases, which can shave hundreds or even thousands off your total cost.

What’s Included in a Rivian Lease?

When you lease a Rivian R1S, you’re not just getting a vehicle—you’re getting a full ecosystem of support and innovation. Every lease includes:

– **Over-the-air software updates:** Your R1S receives regular updates that improve performance, add new features, and enhance safety. Think of it like your smartphone getting smarter over time.
– **Mobile service:** Rivian’s technicians can come to your home or office for routine maintenance, software updates, and minor repairs—no need to visit a service center.
– **Roadside assistance:** 24/7 support for towing, jump-starts, tire changes, and lockout services.
– **Access to Rivian Adventure Network:** A growing network of fast-charging stations located near national parks, trails, and outdoor destinations.
– **Gear Shop discounts:** Lease customers often receive special pricing on Rivian’s line of adventure gear, including rooftop tents, coolers, and recovery kits.

These perks make leasing a Rivian more than just a financial decision—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a cross-country road trip, your leased R1S is equipped to handle it all.

Pros and Cons of Leasing a Rivian SUV

Like any financial decision, leasing a Rivian SUV comes with advantages and drawbacks. Let’s break them down so you can make an informed choice.

Pros of Leasing a Rivian R1S

– **Lower monthly payments:** Leasing typically costs less per month than buying, freeing up cash for other expenses or investments.
– **Drive the latest tech:** With a 2- or 3-year lease, you can upgrade to a newer model as Rivian releases improvements.
– **Minimal maintenance worries:** Rivian’s warranty covers the vehicle for the duration of most leases, and mobile service handles most issues.
– **No resale hassle:** At the end of the lease, you simply return the vehicle (within mileage and condition limits) and walk away.
– **Environmental benefits:** Driving an electric SUV reduces your carbon footprint, and leasing lets you do it without long-term commitment.

Cons of Leasing a Rivian R1S

– **Mileage limits:** Most leases cap you at 10,000 miles per year. Exceeding this can result in fees of $0.25 per mile or more.
– **No ownership:** You don’t build equity in the vehicle, and you’ll need to lease or buy another car when the term ends.
– **Customization restrictions:** You can’t make permanent modifications to a leased vehicle, which may disappoint some owners.
– **Potential for higher long-term cost:** If you lease multiple times, you could end up paying more over a decade than if you had bought and kept one vehicle.

For many drivers, the pros outweigh the cons—especially if you value flexibility, innovation, and adventure. But if you’re a high-mileage driver or plan to keep your SUV for 10+ years, buying might be the better long-term play.

How to Apply for a Rivian Lease

Ready to lease your own Rivian R1S? The process is straightforward and can be completed entirely online in under 30 minutes.

1. **Configure your R1S:** Visit Rivian’s website and use the configurator to build your ideal SUV. Choose your trim, battery, drivetrain, and options.
2. **Get a lease quote:** Enter your zip code, desired lease term, down payment, and annual mileage. Rivian will generate a personalized quote.
3. **Check your credit:** Rivian will perform a soft credit check to determine your eligibility and interest rate. This won’t affect your credit score.
4. **Sign the lease agreement:** If you’re approved, you’ll sign the lease digitally and pay any required down payment.
5. **Schedule delivery:** Rivian will coordinate delivery to your home or a nearby service center. You can also schedule a test drive before finalizing.
6. **Enjoy your Rivian:** Once delivered, your R1S is ready to go—complete with a full charge, mobile app access, and all the features you selected.

Rivian’s customer support team is available via chat, phone, or email to help with any questions during the process. And if you change your mind, you can usually cancel the lease before delivery without penalty.

Is Leasing a Rivian SUV Worth It?

So, is leasing a Rivian SUV worth it? For the right person, absolutely. If you’re drawn to cutting-edge technology, love outdoor adventures, and want to drive an electric vehicle without the long-term commitment of ownership, leasing an R1S is a smart move.

The R1S isn’t just another SUV—it’s a statement. It says you care about innovation, sustainability, and experiences over possessions. With its rugged design, off-road capability, and luxurious interior, it’s built for people who want to explore the world without leaving a heavy footprint.

And leasing makes that dream accessible. You get to drive a $90,000+ vehicle for a fraction of the cost, with the peace of mind that comes from Rivian’s support network and warranty coverage. Plus, you’re not locked into a single model—when your lease ends, you can upgrade to the latest version with new features, improved range, or even a different color.

Of course, leasing isn’t for everyone. If you drive 20,000 miles a year or want to install a custom sound system, buying might be better. But for the average driver who values flexibility and innovation, leasing a Rivian SUV is a forward-thinking choice.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Electric Adventure

Rivian is more than just an automaker—it’s a movement. By offering direct-to-consumer sales and leasing, the company is redefining what it means to own (or lease) an electric vehicle. The R1S SUV embodies this vision: a high-tech, high-capability machine designed for people who want to go further, explore more, and live sustainably.

Leasing a Rivian SUV isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about embracing a lifestyle—one that values adventure, innovation, and responsibility. Whether you’re navigating city streets or mountain trails, your leased R1S is ready for whatever comes next.

And the best part? You don’t have to wait. With Rivian’s online leasing platform, you can configure, apply, and drive away in your new electric SUV in just a few days. So if you’ve been wondering, “Can you lease a Rivian SUV?”—the answer is a resounding yes. And it might just be the best decision you make this year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you lease a Rivian SUV?

Yes, you can lease a Rivian SUV—specifically the R1S seven-passenger electric SUV. Rivian offers in-house leasing directly through its website, with terms of 24 or 36 months.

Is the Rivian R1T available for lease?

No, as of 2024, the Rivian R1T pickup truck is only available for purchase. Only the R1S SUV is eligible for leasing in most U.S. states.

How much does it cost to lease a Rivian R1S?

Lease payments typically range from $900 to $1,200 per month, depending on trim, down payment, lease term, and location. A $0 down, 36-month lease on an Adventure trim may start around $999/month.

Can I lease a Rivian with no down payment?

Yes, Rivian offers $0 down lease options, making it easier to get into an electric SUV without a large upfront cost. However, a larger down payment will reduce your monthly payment.

What happens at the end of a Rivian lease?

At the end of your lease, you can return the vehicle (within mileage and condition limits), purchase it at the residual value, or lease a new Rivian model.

Does leasing a Rivian include maintenance and updates?

Yes, every lease includes mobile service, roadside assistance, and over-the-air software updates that improve performance and add new features over time.