Rivian is preparing to conduct a dedicated event in early 2026 to release detailed information on the R2, which enters production in the first half of next year. Weeks ahead of this program, we got to see the R2 in the flesh and made a few observations. Here’s what we found during our time with Rivian’s upcoming midsize SUV.
Design
The Rivian R2 carries a silhouette similar to the R1S, and while photos can make them appear alike, the size difference becomes clear when viewed in person. The front fascia uses Rivian’s trademark vertical stadium-style lamps connected by a full-width light bar.
In person, what stands out are its short overhangs, the boxy cabin, and black lower cladding, which present both a clean and adventurous look. The powered rear glass drops fully into the liftgate, creating an open-air experience not commonly found in electric SUVs.
The rear quarter windows vent outward to increase airflow, and we feel that the combined effect should provide better outward visibility and a more open cabin than the Model Y. The rear features a horizontal red light bar and simple RIVIAN script. Roof rails, flush door handles, and aerodynamic wheels complete the design.
Interior
We got to see the R2’s cabin as well, and the dashboard uses a horizontal theme. The large central touchscreen and the smaller instrument panel integrate into the dashboard, and are tilted backwards for easier viewing.
A new steering wheel incorporates two large haptic control dials for primary functions. The seating uses soft-touch materials paired with sustainable textiles that Rivian says are easy to clean.
We could observe that Rivian has made utility and storage solutions as a top priority with large open bins, deep door pockets, and a floating center console. The second-row seats are able to split into three parts and fold completely flat, creating a level cargo surface suitable for larger items or car camping.
The flat floor and generous cabin height should help create class-leading rear comfort, and we see this as an important differentiator from the Model Y.
Specifications
R2 is built on Rivian’s new midsize platform, which uses high-pressure die castings and a structural battery pack. The top of the battery pack doubles as the vehicle floor, improving rigidity and reducing complexity.
Two battery sizes will be available, using the new 4695 cell format for higher energy density. The larger pack is estimated to deliver more than 300 miles of driving range. Three motor configurations will be offered, with a well-appointed dual-motor variant being the launch vehicle.
The single-motor setup drives the rear wheels, the dual-motor setup provides all-wheel drive, and the tri-motor variant pairs two rear motors with one up front. Rivian estimates that the quickest version will accelerate from 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds.
DC fast charging from 10 to 80 percent is expected to take under 30 minutes, and the vehicle supports both NACS and CCS (via adapter). The R2 includes Rivian’s new autonomous hardware suite with 11 cameras, five radars, and a more capable compute platform, with over-the-air updates supported.
Price & Release Date
Rivian expects R2 to start at about USD 45,000, though the dual-motor launch edition is expected to be priced above that. Reservations are open in the U.S. for USD 100. Production will begin in the first half of 2026 at Rivian’s Normal, Illinois facility, and international availability will follow the North American rollout.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
