Rivian unveils R2 compact electric SUV aimed at volume sales

Rivian unveils the R2 compact electric SUV priced from $46,495 with up to 340 miles of range as the automaker targets higher EV sales volume.

On the Dash:

• Rivian’s R2 compact SUV launches with pricing from $46,495 to $59,485 and up to 345 miles of range.
• Performance models deliver up to 656 hp, 609 lb-ft of torque and a 0–60 mph time of 3.6 seconds.
• The R2 will compete directly with compact EV SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y, Cadillac Optiq and Audi Q4 e-tron.

Rivian introduced the R2 compact electric SUV, a new entry-level model designed to expand the brand’s reach into the high-volume compact SUV segment.

Pricing ranges from $46,495 for a Standard rear-wheel-drive model to $59,485 for the all-wheel-drive Launch edition that will be first to arrive in spring 2026. The R2 builds on the design and technology of Rivian’s existing lineup, including the Rivian R1T and Rivian R1S, but introduces a smaller platform aimed at broader adoption.

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Built on a new midsize unibody architecture, the five-passenger SUV is about 2,000 pounds lighter than the R1 models. It offers 9.6 inches of ground clearance, along with a 25-degree approach angle and a 26-degree departure angle. The vehicle will be assembled in Normal, Illinois.

The R2 lineup will eventually include several trims. The Performance model, priced at $57,990 excluding a $1,495 destination charge, delivers 656 horsepower and 609 pound-feet of torque with an estimated 330 miles of range and a 0–60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. The Premium model, priced at $53,990, will offer 450 horsepower, 537 pound-feet of torque and about 330 miles of range.

Two rear-wheel-drive Standard variants will follow. One arriving early in 2027 will deliver 350 horsepower, 355 pound-feet of torque and up to 345 miles of range. A base version priced at about $45,000 will be offered later with more than 275 miles of range.

The R2 will compete with compact electric SUVs including the Tesla Model Y, Cadillac Optiq, Audi Q4 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Key features include semi-active suspension, a 4,400-pound towing capacity, hands-free driving capability and a 5.2-cubic-foot front trunk. Rivian will offer its Autonomy+ hands-free driving system for $49.99 per month or a one-time purchase of $2,500, with a 60-day free trial included.

The R2 represents a critical step for Rivian as it seeks higher production volumes and broader market appeal beyond its higher-priced vehicles.