Deliveries of the R2 are scheduled to begin in the spring of 2026 with the Performance trim and a limited Launch Package starting at $57,990. Additional Premium configurations are expected later in 2026, while more affordable Standard models are planned for 2027.
The R2 represents a strategic step for Rivian, which has built its reputation on the larger and more expensive R1T pickup and R1S SUV. Built on a newly designed midsize platform, the R2 is intended to bring the brand’s distinctive design language, off-road capability and software-driven technology to a lower price point without abandoning the company’s adventurous identity.
At the top end of the lineup, the dual-motor Performance version will produce up to 656 horsepower and accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 3.6 seconds, according to Rivian. The company estimates a driving range of up to about 330 miles for that configuration. Even more modest versions are expected to deliver competitive performance and efficiency, with the rear-wheel-drive Standard trim offering an estimated range of up to 345 miles.
“R2 embodies so many of our learnings,” said RJ Scaringe, Rivian’s founder and chief executive, in a statement announcing the vehicle. “The passion and attention to detail from our team is visible everywhere.”
The lineup will include three principal trims. The Performance model, arriving first, will be the most powerful version and comes standard with semi-active suspension, Rivian’s premium audio system and a variety of off-road drive modes, including Rally and Soft Sand. The limited Launch Package will also include lifetime access to Rivian’s Autonomy+ driver-assistance service and a special edition key fob.
The Premium trim, scheduled for late 2026 and starting at $53,990, offers dual-motor all-wheel drive with 450 horsepower and an estimated 0-to-60 time of 4.6 seconds. It includes many of the comfort and technology features found in the Performance model, though without the higher-end suspension or some off-road capabilities.
The Standard model, expected in 2027, will start at $48,490 and feature a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup producing about 350 horsepower. Rivian says it will reach 60 miles per hour in roughly 5.9 seconds. A more affordable variant with slightly reduced range, starting at around $45,000, is planned later in 2027.
Like Rivian’s existing vehicles, the R2 is designed with outdoor use in mind. It features nearly 9.6 inches of ground clearance, integrated tow hooks and a towing capacity of up to 4,400 pounds when equipped with the optional tow package. Inside, the cabin is designed to carry five adults and up to 90 cubic feet of cargo, including a front trunk and fold-flat rear seating.
A distinctive feature of the design is a rear drop-glass window that lowers completely into the liftgate, allowing long items like surfboards or lumber to extend through the vehicle.
The R2 also reflects Rivian’s emphasis on software and electronics. Each vehicle will include built-in hardware for the company’s Autonomy+ hands-free driving system, available through subscription or one-time purchase. The SUV’s sensor suite includes 11 high-dynamic-range cameras and five radar units, along with onboard computing intended to support future artificial-intelligence features, including a voice assistant that can run locally in the vehicle even when offline.
Rivian says the R2 will come standard with a North American Charging Standard port, giving drivers direct access to Tesla’s Supercharger network along with other charging systems through adapters.
The company will display the R2 publicly for the first time at the South by Southwest festival in Austin from March 13 through March 18. Reservations are open with a $100 refundable deposit.