In the electrified world of pickup trucks, few battles are as epic as the Tesla Cybertruck versus the Rivian R1T. As of September 28, 2025, these two all-electric haulers represent the cutting edge of utility and innovation.
The Cybertruck, with its polarizing stainless-steel exoskeleton and meme-fueled hype, embodies Tesla's disruptive ethos—raw performance, futuristic design, and seamless integration with the Supercharger network.
The Rivian R1T, on the other hand, channels adventure-ready refinement, blending premium materials with off-road prowess in a more conventional (yet striking) package. Both qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit on eligible trims, but they cater to different drivers: the Cybertruck for bold statement-makers and utility maximalists, the R1T for polished explorers seeking balance.
This head-to-head comparison draws from the latest specs, real-world tests, and expert insights to help you decide. We'll break down pricing, performance, range, practicality, features, safety, and more. Whether you're towing trailers, conquering trails, or just turning heads, one of these will redefine your drive.
Pricing and Trims: Value vs. Versatility
Pricing is a flashpoint—the R1T edges out on entry-level affordability, especially post-credit, while the Cybertruck's lineup spans from budget to beastly. Rivian's 2025 refresh introduces more modular powertrains (Dual, Tri, Quad motors) with battery options (Standard 92 kWh, Large 105 kWh, Max 128 kWh), emphasizing customization. Tesla's trims focus on motor count, with the new Long Range RWD broadening appeal. Note: Tax credit applies to purchases under $80,000 MSRP; leases ineligible.
| Category | Tesla Cybertruck (2025) | Rivian R1T (2025) |
| Base Trim | Long Range RWD: $71,985 (after credit: $64,485) | Dual Standard: $69,900 (after credit: $62,400) |
| Mid Trim | AWD: $81,985 (no credit) | Tri Large: $79,900 (after credit: $72,400) |
| Top Trim | Cyberbeast: $101,985 (no credit) | Quad Max: $95,900 (after credit: $88,400) |
| Key Options | FSD ($8,000), Powershare ($2,500), AT wheels ($3,500) | Off-Road Pack ($2,500), Kitchen Pack ($1,500), removable tonneau ($3,000) |
| Leasing | From $799/mo (36 mo, 10k mi/yr) | From $849/mo (36 mo, 10k mi/yr) |
The R1T's base Dual Standard undercuts the Cybertruck by ~$2,000 post-credit, offering standard AWD and 533 hp—ideal for value seekers. Cybertruck's RWD trim shines for efficiency-focused buyers, but higher trims miss incentives. Resale? Both hold strong (70-80% after 2 years), though Rivian's scarcity boosts premiums. Long-term savings: Both slash $2,000+ annually on fuel vs. gas trucks, but Tesla's lower maintenance edges it.
Powertrain and Performance: Raw Torque vs. Refined Power
Both trucks deliver instant EV torque, but the Cybertruck's tri-motor Cyberbeast claims quickest-in-class sprints, while the R1T's Quad Max excels in balanced, off-road-tuned dynamics. Batteries: Cybertruck's 123 kWh structural pack vs. R1T's up to 128 kWh Max. Efficiency favors the Cybertruck slightly (90-100 MPGe vs. 85-95 MPGe).
| Category | Tesla Cybertruck | Rivian R1T |
| Base Power | 300 hp / 400 lb-ft (RWD) | 533 hp / 610 lb-ft (Dual) |
| Mid Power | 600 hp / 525 lb-ft (AWD) | 810 hp / 950 lb-ft (Tri) |
| Top Power | 845 hp / 740 lb-ft (Cyberbeast) | 1,025 hp / 1,198 lb-ft (Quad) |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5s (RWD), 4.1s (AWD), 2.6s (Beast) | 4.5s (Dual), 3.5s (Tri), 2.5s (Quad) |
| Top Speed | 112 mph (RWD/AWD), 130 mph (Beast) | 125 mph |
| Drive Modes | Chill, Standard, Sport, Off-Road, Extract | Drive, Sport, All-Terrain, Rock Crawl |
In tests, the R1T Quad edges the Cybertruck AWD in 0-60 (3.5s vs. 3.8s) but squeals tires less gracefully. Cyberbeast's 2.6s launch is unmatched, though real-world quarter-miles hit 11.0s at 119 mph. R1T's adaptive air suspension (up to 14.9 inches clearance) feels more composed on highways; Cybertruck's steer-by-wire (variable ratio) shines in tight spots but can feel numb. Towing: Both max 11,000 lbs (Cybertruck RWD: 7,500 lbs), payload 2,500 lbs (R1T: 1,760 lbs). Off-road? R1T's torque vectoring conquers rocks better; Cybertruck's 35° approach angle and vault-like bed win for durability.
Range and Charging: Superchargers vs. Electrify America
Range is pivotal for trucks—the R1T's Max Pack leads on paper, but real-world highway tests (cold weather, 70 mph) show the Cybertruck closing the gap thanks to superior aero (0.335 Cd vs. R1T's 0.30). Both suffer 15-20% winter losses, but Tesla's preconditioning mitigates better.
| Category | Tesla Cybertruck | Rivian R1T |
| Base Range | 354 miles (RWD) | 270 miles (Dual Standard) |
| Mid Range | 325 miles (AWD) | 336 miles (Tri Large) |
| Top Range | 320 miles (Cyberbeast) | 420 miles (Quad Max) |
| Real-World Hwy | 280-310 miles (AWD); 252 miles cold test | 300-350 miles (Tri); 266 miles cold test (Max) |
| Charging Speed | 250 kW (128-136 mi/15 min) | 220 kW (140 mi/15 min) |
| Network | 50,000+ Superchargers (98% uptime) | Electrify America (growing, but spotty) |
In a brutal cold-weather test, the Cybertruck AWD hit 252 miles (73 short of EPA), while R1T Max managed 266 miles (154 short)—a slim 14-mile edge despite R1T's larger pack. Cybertruck's NACS port accesses more reliable chargers; R1T's CCS adapter works but lags in speed. Home: Both 11.5 kW Level 2 (35-40 mi/hr). Verdict: Cybertruck for road trips, R1T for max theoretical endurance.
Dimensions and Practicality: Exoskeleton Utility vs. Adventure Storage
The Cybertruck's massive footprint dwarfs the R1T, offering more bed space but trickier parking. Both seat five with frunks, but R1T's gear tunnel adds clever mid-bed storage.
| Category | Tesla Cybertruck | Rivian R1T |
| Length / Wheelbase | 223.7 in / 149.9 in | 217.1 in / 135.8 in |
| Width / Height | 80 in / 69.1-75 in (air susp.) | 79.3 in / 77.3 in |
| Bed Size | 6 ft L x 4 ft W, 67 cu ft (tonneau) | 4.5 ft L x 5 ft W, 52 cu ft (tonneau opt.) |
| Cargo Total | 121 cu ft (bed + frunk) | 62 cu ft (bed + frunk + tunnel) |
| Ground Clearance | 8-17.4 in | 8.3-14.9 in |
| Turning Radius | 45 ft (rear steer) | 70 ft |
Cybertruck's longer bed swallows plywood sheets; R1T's shorter one prioritizes maneuverability. Bed height: Cybertruck lower (32 in entry mode) for loading. Off-road angles: Cybertruck 35° approach/28° departure vs. R1T's 34°/30°. Water fording: 31 in both. R1T's removable roof and Powershare outlets (V2L/V2H) edge utility for campers.
Interior Features and Design: Sci-Fi Minimalism vs. Premium Adventure
Designs couldn't differ more: Cybertruck's angular stainless exoskeleton (bullet-resistant, fingerprint-prone) vs. R1T's sleek aluminum body with ash wood accents. Interiors reflect this—Cybertruck's yoke and massive 18.5-inch screen feel spaceship-like; R1T's physical buttons and 15.6-inch touchscreen offer tactile luxury.
- Cybertruck: Vegan leather, heated/ventilated seats, 15-speaker audio, rear 9.3-inch screen. Pros: Quiet cabin, OTA Easter eggs. Cons: Polarizing yoke, camera-only mirrors limit visibility.
- R1T: Meridian 22-speaker sound, massaging seats, gear tunnel fridge option. Pros: Refinement, natural materials. Cons: Less futuristic, no yoke novelty.
R1T feels more premium daily; Cybertruck wows with steer-by-wire agility. Both lack Apple CarPlay, but Tesla's UI is snappier.
Safety and Reliability: Robust Builds, Evolving Tech
Both earn NHTSA 5-stars (Cybertruck rollover 4-star). R1T: IIHS Top Safety Pick; Cybertruck pending. Autopilot/FSD (Tesla: $8k) vs. Rivian Autonomy (hands-free highway, $2k Driver+). Cameras: 12 each. Recalls: Cybertruck (46k for wipers); R1T fewer but windshield cracks noted. Owner scores: R1T 4.8/5 (refined ride); Cybertruck 4.5/5 (build quirks). Warranty: 8 yr/150k mi battery both.
Pros, Cons, and Who Wins?
Cybertruck Pros: Insane acceleration, superior charging network, massive utility, unique design. Cons: Harsher ride, visibility issues, higher base price.
R1T Pros: Balanced performance, off-road finesse, premium interior, better real-world refinement. Cons: Shorter bed, less range in cold, pricier top trims.
Verdict: The Rivian R1T wins for most buyers—its adventure polish, customizable powertrains, and consistent excellence make it the versatile EV truck king. Choose Cybertruck if you crave raw power, Tesla ecosystem perks, and a head-turning statement. Test both: Rivian's at dealers nationwide; Cybertruck via Tesla centers. The EV truck era is here—pick your revolution.
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