Rivian R2 revealed: Will this change American’s minds on EVs?

Rivian reveals more details on the long awaited Rivian R2, initially arriving this year.
  • Rivian has given more details on its long awaited Rivian R2 model, ahead of its initial launch later this year.
  • The Rivian R2 will become the brand’s most affordable and accessible model yet, and will also be the first Rivian passenger car to be sold in Europe.
  • The more premium trim levels will go on sale in late 2026, but for those awaiting a $45,000 Rivian, the single motor variants will not arrive until 2027.

Rivian reveals more about the R2

The launch of the Rivian R2 has been much anticipated, ever since the manufacturer originally teased the vehicle back in early 2024. Now, with specifications and pricing for the production model finally revealed, we have more information on where the R2 will stand within an increasingly competitive electric SUV and 4×4 market.

The R2 follows the R1S SUV and R1T pick-up models, hoping to offer the same off-road capabilities on a smaller footprint – and a smaller price tag. Whilst the R1 range starts at around $75,000 in the USA, the R2 will be priced as low as $45,000. Suddenly, the Rivian brand is looking accessible for a much wider audience.

Rivian R2 pricing

At the launch, Rivian provided US pricing for this upcoming EV. Right now, just one specification is available to order – The R2 Performance. This offers a sports car-rivalling 656 horsepower through a dual motor setup, whilst a 87.9 kWh capacity battery provides a driving range of around 330 miles. Pricing for this option will start at $57,990, plus an additional $1,500 delivery charge.

Later in 2026, the R2 Performance specification will be joined by the R2 Premium. Priced at $53,990, this will be the mid range of the R2 – retaining the same large 87.9 kWh battery as the performance, with a lower 450 horsepower dual motor output and the absence of semi-active suspension.

For those looking for the long-touted $45,000 Rivian, you’ll need to wait a little longer. Coming in late 2027, the R2 Standard will launch, with a smaller battery pack and a single-motor setup with less power – offering a claimed range of around 265 miles. These specifications will still allow it to be very price competitive, with similar pricing to vehicles such as the Tesla Model Y. The R2 Standard, being rear-wheel-drive only unlike the AWD Premium and Performance, may not offer the same level of off-road capabilities however.

A rear-wheel-drive variant with the same 87.9 kWh battery pack as more premium specifications will also arrive in 2027, offering 345 miles on a single charge for a price of $48,490.

Initial reservations for US and Canadian customers are open today.

The first Rivian SUV for Europe

Rivian have previously confirmed that the R2 will also come to Europe, marking the first passenger EV from the brand to arrive in the region (the Rivian Electric Delivery Van is already in operation in parts of Europe for Amazon).

However, whilst the R2 is set for a 2026 release in North America, there’s no information on when we can expect the R2 to arrive on European shores. Previously, Rivian touted a 2027 release for Europe, but that was silently removed from the European landing page earlier this month.