Rivian has reached a critical juncture as it prepares to launch the R2, its entry into the mass market. The rising automaker, beloved in the automotive sector, appears to have achieved the seemingly unachievable and is set to deliver something that Elon has often failed at: sticking to the timeline and commitments regarding specifications and prices.
On Thursday, Rivian announced that the R2 will be released this spring featuring Launch Edition trims of the Performance variant, equipped with a dual-motor setup powered by an 87.9-kWh battery pack that yields 656 horsepower, 609 lb-ft of torque, a 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.6 seconds, and an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles, priced at $59,485 including a $1,495 destination fee.
Performance will drop, and costs lessen from that point. The entry-level version, known as Standard, will utilize a single-motor configuration providing 350 hp, 355 lb-ft of torque directed to the rear wheels, achieving a 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds, and offering over 275 miles of estimated range from Rivian, with a price tag of $46,495 available later in 2027.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the available trims, power outputs, range estimates, and pricing:
| Trim | Motors | Battery (usable) | Horsepower | Torque | 0-60 mph | Range | Price (including destination) | Launch timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Single/RWD | TBD | 350 hp | 355 lb-ft | 5.9 sec | 275-plus miles Rivian-estimated | $46,495 | Late 2027 |
| Standard | Single/RWD Long-Range | 87.9-kWh | 350 hp | 355 lb-ft | 5.9 sec | 345 miles Rivian-estimated | $49,985 | Early 2027 |
| Premium | Dual/AWD | 87.9-kWh | 450 hp | 537 lb-ft | 4.6 sec | 330 miles EPA-estimated | $55485 | Late 2026 |
| Performance | Dual/AWD | 87.9-kWh | 656 hp | 609 lb-ft | 3.6 sec | 330 miles EPA-estimated | $59,485 | Spring 2026 |
Rivian has yet to reveal the peak charge rate for the R2 or detailed charging standards. It has confirmed the R2 will include a Tesla-like NACS charging port, be compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network, and is reported to fast-charge from 10-80% in 29 minutes, though additional information is pending.
The Rivian R2 presents as a more compact variant resembling the larger R1S SUV, which is a commendation. The two-row R2 is smaller in all dimensions but unmistakably a Rivian SUV with its full-width LED light bars at both ends, vertically stacked LED matrix beam headlights, and a robust profile. Its design is capable and more SUV-like unlike the Tesla Model Y’s fluid shapes.
Car enthusiasts will appreciate that the R2’s tailgate includes a drop-down glass window reminiscent of the Toyota 4Runner.
Inside, the Rivian’s design language from the R1S translates into a more compact environment. A simplistic, horizontally designed dashboard devoid of knobs and buttons incorporates a digital gauge display along with a sizable touchscreen featuring a customizable layered interface regarded as one of the finest in the industry. A revamped steering wheel, different from the R1, includes roller knobs termed Haptic Halo Wheels that provide feedback as they are manipulated. These knobs are axis-mounted and can be pushed, pulled, and rolled for various vehicle controls, including climate settings and audio volume, with all data visible on the digital gauge display. Furthermore, R1 users’ requests were heard, resulting in the addition of not one, but two glove boxes.
Every R2 comes equipped with Rivian’s Autonomy+ Level 2 hands-free driver assistance hardware set, comprising multiple cameras, radar, and sensors, with Lidar to be introduced in 2026. Buyers can opt for a subscription of $49.99 monthly or a single payment of $2,500 for a lifetime subscription after an initial 60-day trial period.
All-terrain tires will be offered and the R2 boasts a ground clearance of 9.6 inches, a wading depth of 19.7 inches, a 25-degree approach angle, a 26-degree departure angle, and a 20.6-degree breakover angle. Although less proficient than its larger R1S counterpart and built on a simpler suspension system, the R2 appears on paper to be among the more competent vehicles in its category, particularly within the electric midsize segment.
Measuring 185.9 inches in length, the R2 competes right in the heart of the midsize sector dominated by the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Tesla Model Y. Rivian claims the R2 will stand 66.9 inches tall and 84.7 inches wide, with a 115.6-inch wheelbase. This design translates to a spacious interior suitable for taller individuals with Rivian asserting 41.4 inches of legroom in the front, 40.9 inches of headroom up front, 40.4 inches of legroom in the rear, and 40.4 inches of headroom in the back thanks to intelligent space management. The rear area can accommodate 28.7 cubic feet of items, expandable to 79.4 cubic feet with the second row lowered. Additionally, there’s a generous front trunk, though no specific dimensions have been disclosed, other than it can hold six grocery bags.
Initially, production of the Rivian R2 will take place alongside the R1S and R1T in Normal, Illinois. Rivian is constructing a second facility in Stanton Springs, Georgia, where the R2 and R3 will be manufactured at larger volumes. The automaker anticipates an initial production range of 20,000 to 25,000 units for 2026.