I Just Picked Up My 2023 Quad Rivian R1S and Love It but If You’re 5’1 Like Me You’ll Want Running Boards

This evening, while strolling through the “RIVIAN Vehicles Discussion” group on Facebook, I came across a post by Christie Lipscomb. Christie recently picked up her 2023 Quad R1S this weekend, and she loves it so far. Coming from a Tesla Model Y Long Range, she finds the R1S thrilling, but at her height of 5’1", she feels like running boards would make getting in and out much easier.

She shared her thoughts in the group, stating, “I just picked up my 2023 Quad R1S this weekend, and I love it! I previously had a Tesla Model Y Long Range, but at 5’1", I would prefer to have running boards. Has anyone added them, fixed or retractable, and do you have any recommendations on where to order? Thanks in advance.”

Christie's post resonated with many others in the group, highlighting a common concern among shorter drivers when it comes to larger vehicles like the Rivian R1S. The R1S, known for its impressive off-road capabilities and sleek design, can pose challenges for those of us who may struggle to reach the cabin comfortably.

Santiago Gomez, another group member, chimed in, saying, “Following. I’m considering getting running boards for mine as well since my 67-year-old mother, who is also 5’1”, has a really hard time getting in, even with the kneel function. She also says it needs an ‘oh crap’ handle on the A-pillar, like the one in my sister’s Rubicon. P.S. Congrats!” Santiago's comment highlights the fact that not only shorter drivers, but also older passengers may find the height of the R1S challenging.

Brianne Larsen added her perspective, sharing, “I’m 5’2” and have had my 2023 R1S for 1.5 years. It bothered me and my elementary-aged kids at first, but we’ve all gotten used to it. I had two Navigators with retractable running boards before my Rivian and loved them, I’m not as much a fan of the stationary ones. They aren’t terrible, but they take away from the beautiful, clean lines, in my opinion. My advice would be to give it a few months and see if it still bothers you or your passengers on a daily basis before deciding. Congrats, you’re going to have so much fun.” Brianne’s advice to wait and see if the height becomes an issue over time is practical, especially for those who might want to enjoy the clean lines of the vehicle without any modifications.

Similarly, Lori Elza shared her experience, echoing Brianne's sentiments. “I’m 5’2” and have had my 2023 R1S for 1.5 years. It bothered me and my elementary-aged kids at first, but we’ve all gotten used to it. I had two Navigators with retractable running boards before my Rivian and loved them, but I’m not as much a fan of the stationary ones. They aren’t terrible, but they take away from the beautiful, clean lines, in my opinion. My advice would be to give it a few months to see if it still bothers you or your passengers daily before making a decision. Congrats, you’re going to have so much fun!” Lori’s comments highlight a common theme among shorter drivers, they often adapt to the height of their vehicles, but running boards can make the transition smoother.

As an automotive journalist, I understand the importance of getting feedback from fellow owners. The R1S is a fantastic vehicle, but it's essential to consider how it fits each person's needs. If you’re thinking about running boards, you might want to explore various options available on the market. Fixed and retractable running boards can offer convenience, but they come with their own set of considerations.

When considering running boards, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. Fixed running boards can be more affordable and simpler to install, but they may not suit everyone's aesthetic preferences. Retractable running boards, on the other hand, offer a cleaner look when retracted, but they can be more complex and costly to install. Both types can enhance accessibility, especially for shorter individuals.

If you want to know more about the Rivian R1S and its features, check out this article on how I had a successful 1,300-mile trip in my Rivian R1S using all Tesla chargers. It offers valuable insights into the vehicle's performance and charging capabilities, which can be helpful as you adjust to your new ride.

As you settle into your new R1S, it’s also essential to think about the practicality of accessories like running boards. If you're considering them, doing thorough research and seeking recommendations from fellow R1S owners can be beneficial. There are various brands and styles available, and finding one that aligns with your preferences and budget is crucial.

In addition to running boards, many owners have pointed out the need for other accessibility features, such as hand grips or “oh crap” handles, to assist shorter passengers in climbing into the vehicle comfortably. Santiago's mention of the handle in his sister’s Rubicon is a great example of how simple modifications can enhance the usability of a vehicle.

As someone who enjoys exploring the automotive landscape, I've come across various insights on the Rivian R1S, from its charging capabilities to its off-road performance. For instance, if you're curious about potential charging mishaps, check out this article about a charging mishap that left a dog trapped while using the vehicle. It serves as a reminder to always stay vigilant while charging, especially in unfamiliar situations.

While you're navigating the world of running boards and vehicle modifications, don't forget to enjoy the ride. The Rivian R1S is a remarkable vehicle, known for its innovative design and capabilities. Whether you're cruising through city streets or tackling off-road adventures, the R1S is built for exploration and enjoyment.

If you’re interested in road trips and how the R1S performs on long journeys, consider reading this article about an epic 2,929-mile road trip in the Rivian R1S. It showcases the potential for long-distance travel in this electric vehicle and can inspire your own adventures.

For those considering the Rivian R1S and its features, don’t forget to check out this article on the challenges of a new Rivian R1S that wouldn’t recognize LED trailer lights. Understanding these technical aspects can help you navigate any issues you might encounter along the way.

Additionally, if you're curious about comparisons with other electric vehicles, take a look at this article detailing a Tesla Model X Plaid and Rivian R1S comparison. Such comparisons can help you understand how the R1S stands up against its competitors in various aspects.

In conclusion, the experience of driving a Rivian R1S is unique to each individual. As Christie, Santiago, Brianne, and Lori have shared, personal adjustments can enhance your driving experience. Whether it’s installing running boards or simply getting used to the vehicle's height, each owner will have their own journey.

Moral Lesson: The journey of vehicle ownership is about finding the right balance between comfort and aesthetics. As you embark on your adventures with the Rivian R1S, remember that it's essential to prioritize your comfort and accessibility to enhance your overall experience.

I’d love to hear from you! If you’re also a proud owner of a Rivian R1S or are considering modifications like running boards, please share your experiences in the comments below. What has your journey been like? Do you have any tips for fellow drivers? Let’s keep the conversation going!

Narek Hareyan is a young automotive journalist with experience in a golf cart dealership and an interest in the automotive industry. Follow Narek on X for daily news coverage about cars.