As Rivian owners know, OTA updates are one of the biggest advantages of owning an R1T or R1S. The Rivian 2026.03 update (rolling out since mid-February 2026) delivers meaningful improvements across Gen 1 and Gen 2 vehicles — including expanded Sport Mode for every dual-motor configuration, a deeper and more flexible Kneel Mode, Launch Mode for more performance variants, a brand-new dedicated Apple Watch app, smarter cold-weather range transparency, and polished UI with Unreal Engine 5.5.
This in-depth guide synthesizes official Rivian details with practical owner insights, step-by-step instructions, compatibility tables, and original analysis to help you understand exactly what changed, who benefits most, and how to make the most of the new features. Whether you’re searching for “Rivian sport mode unlocked,” “how to get sport mode Rivian,” “does my Rivian have sport mode,” “Rivian kneel mode 2026.03,” or “Rivian software update today,” you’ll find clear answers here.
What’s New in Rivian 2026.03? Key Highlights
- Sport Mode now available on all Dual-Motor variants (base Dual Standard LFP on Gen 2, NMC Dual on Gen 1, plus Performance trims).
- Launch Mode expanded to Gen 1 Quad-Motor and Performance Dual-Motor vehicles.
- Kneel Mode completely revamped: deeper “Lower” setting (~1 extra inch), one-tap Quick Control access below 20 mph, usable from High ride height and every on-road drive mode (including Sport).
- Dedicated Rivian Apple Watch app for wrist-based controls.
- Cold weather transparency: Blue-shaded battery indicator shows temporary range loss and preconditioning recommendations.
- UI upgrade to Unreal Engine 5.5 for smoother graphics and better vehicle rendering.
- Additional flexibility while using Driver+ / Autonomy+ features.
The update is rolling out in waves (approximately 35% of fleet as of Feb 20, 2026) via Wi-Fi (fastest) or cellular.
Rivian Sport Mode: Now Unlocked for Every Dual-Motor R1T and R1S
Previously limited to Performance Dual-Motor and Quad-Motor trims, Sport Mode is now standard on all dual-motor configurations (Gen 1 NMC and Gen 2 LFP base models included).
What it does:
- Prioritizes on-road responsiveness with sharper throttle mapping and optimized AWD torque vectoring for quicker acceleration and better handling.
- Stiffer ride feel (Firm or Moderate options).
- New Standard ride height option inside Sport Mode (great for owners who love the performance but prefer a higher stance).
Real-world impact (original analysis): Base Dual-Motor owners now get noticeably more engaging daily driving — better merging, passing, and cornering confidence — without needing a Performance pack or hardware upgrade. Gen 1 owners especially benefit, as this brings their trucks/SUVs closer to newer models in feel.
How to Activate Sport Mode on Your Rivian (Step-by-Step)
- Park safely or drive normally (mode changes are allowed on the fly except during certain Driver+ engagements).
- Tap the Drive Modes icon on the center display (or use steering wheel shortcut if available).
- Select Sport from the on-road modes list.
- Adjust Ride Height to Standard if desired and choose ride feel (Firm/Moderate).
Does my Rivian have Sport Mode? After installing 2026.03, check the Drive Modes screen. If you have any Dual-Motor or higher setup, it will appear. Gen 1 Quad-Motor and Performance Dual already had it (now enhanced); base Duals are the big winners.
Compatibility Table – Rivian 2026.03 Features
| Feature | Gen 1 Dual (NMC) | Gen 1 Quad/Perf | Gen 2 Dual (LFP/Standard) | Gen 2 Quad/Perf |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport Mode | New ✓ | Enhanced ✓ | New ✓ | Enhanced ✓ |
| Launch Mode | — | New ✓ | Perf only ✓ | ✓ |
| Enhanced Kneel | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple Watch App | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cold Indicator | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Launch Mode: Track-Ready Performance for More Owners
Select Sport Mode, tap the flag icon, then hold brake + accelerator simultaneously. You’ll get 0-60 mph, quarter-mile times, visualizations, and coaching — designed strictly for closed-circuit dry tracks. Safety warning: Rivian explicitly states not to use on public roads.
Enhanced Kneel Mode in 2026.03 – Deeper, More Flexible
Kneel Mode now lowers even further (new “Lower” setting ≈ 1 extra inch depending on tires), activates via one-tap Quick Controls at <20 mph, works from High ride height and all on-road modes (All-Purpose, Sport, Conserve, Snow), and handles uneven surfaces (up to ~15% grade / 25% tilt). It automatically rises above 5 mph.
Pro tip: Combine with the new Apple Watch app to precondition and kneel before you reach the vehicle — perfect for passengers with mobility needs or loading gear.
New Dedicated Rivian Apple Watch App
Requires Rivian iOS app v3.9+. Features:
- One-tap lock/unlock, vent windows, sound alarm.
- Digital Crown to set target SoC or cabin temperature.
- Up to 4 customizable quick controls.
- Battery % glance on watch face.
- Gen 2: Passive digital key entry (walk up & unlock). Gen 1: Tap to control (keep app foregrounded for key use).
Cold Weather Improvements & Range Transparency
New blue shading on the battery icon and Energy App shows exactly how much range is temporarily unavailable while the pack warms. Plug-in recommendation appears — the vehicle uses grid power efficiently to precondition. You can now trigger preconditioning via the Apple Watch app too.
How to Check & Install Rivian Software Update Today (2026.03)
- Vehicle: Settings → Vehicle → Updates.
- App: Vehicle tab → Software section.
- Best practice: Park, connect to strong Wi-Fi, ensure >30% battery, and enable scheduled updates if desired.
- Update takes ~45 minutes + restart.
FAQ – Covering Every Common Search
How to get Sport Mode on Rivian? Install 2026.03 and select it in Drive Modes (all Dual-Motor vehicles). Does my Rivian have Sport Mode? Yes after the update if Dual-Motor or higher. Rivian Gen 1 Sport Mode / Dual Motor Sport Mode / R1T R1S Sport Mode? Fully supported and enhanced. Rivian Sport Mode unlocked? Yes — the 2026.03 OTA unlocks it for base Dual trims. Rivian launch mode? Available in Sport on expanded trims (track use only). Rivian kneel mode 2026.03? Deeper, one-tap, from more modes and heights. Rivian Apple Watch app? New dedicated app in iOS update 3.9+. Rivian software update today? Check Settings → Vehicle → Updates or the app.
Expert Analysis & Why This Update Matters This is one of Rivian’s strongest statements yet on long-term ownership value. Gen 1 owners (often the most loyal early adopters) receive nearly every major new feature — a rarity in the industry. The Sport Mode expansion turns “good enough” daily drivers into genuinely fun ones, while Kneel and Apple Watch improvements enhance accessibility and convenience for families and adventurers alike. In a market where software-defined vehicles compete on continuous improvement, 2026.03 raises the bar.
Author Note: Compiled by EV technology specialists with direct analysis of official Rivian communications and owner reports. All instructions and analysis prioritize safety and responsible use per Rivian guidelines.
Bonus Focused Guide: Mastering Rivian Sport Mode After 2026.03 (Quick Reference for R1T & R1S Owners)
Step-by-step activation recap (as above). Best practices: Use Standard ride height on highways for comfort + efficiency; Firm setting on twisty roads. Pair with Snow mode in winter for controlled sporty traction. Expected feel: Sharper response from a stop, more confident AWD power delivery — owners describe it as “waking up” the truck without sacrificing much range in moderate use.
Update your Rivian today via Wi-Fi for the full experience. Questions on your specific configuration? The Drive Modes screen after installation will confirm everything.
Drive safe, enjoy the new capabilities, and keep exploring — Rivian’s software evolution continues to make every R1 better over time.
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