Update: ‘Interior’ and ‘Release Date’ updated.
During our time with the Rivian R2, which will go on sale in the U.S. by mid-2026, we felt that it was a rugged EV with ample ground clearance and strong approach and departure angles.
That said, it has room to evolve into a highly capable off-road SUV, and Rivian is likely pondering an “X” variant to meet that demand. Here’s what we know and expect from the potential Rivian R2X.
Rivian CEO all but confirms the R2X
Rivian is expected to expand the R2 lineup with special variants aimed at widening its market appeal. In an InsideEVs podcast (watch the full episode on YouTube) on August 22, 2025, Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe strongly suggested that an R2X is a natural derivative:
It doesn’t take a huge amount of imagination to think of, like, what comes (next), like, if there’s R2, what are the other R2 variants, yeah? And we sort of hinted at that with R3, where we did an R3X. You could imagine X versions, you could imagine other versions.
RJ Scaringe, Founder and CEO, Rivian (InsideEVs podcast on August 22, 2025)
Recently, during Rivian’s Q3 2025 earnings conference call, Scaringe again hinted at the R2X. While explaining how future products would help fill capacity at the upcoming Georgia plant, he said the company has other R2 variants in the pipeline.
What we’ve shown to date in terms of product sets or product portfolios is the R2, the R3, and the R3X. Importantly, there’s other variants, which, of course, we haven’t shown yet, but that will be built off the R2 and R3 platforms. That will support the overall volume in Georgia as well.
RJ Scaringe, Founder and CEO, Rivian (Q3 2025 earnings conference call on November 4, 2025)
Design
With the R2 already featuring a stocky body with an off-road-focused character, backed up by genuine capability, Rivian designers may not need major revisions to make an R2X.
If it is signed off, expect special bumpers with more durable materials and exposed front recovery hooks that highlight its authentic SUV styling while serving a functional role in recovery situations.
On the sides, we imagine dark-finish alloy wheels in a distinctive design and special all-terrain tires with taller sidewalls and improved loose-surface grip compared to those of the regular R2, reinforcing its off-road cred.
Increased ground clearance is likely, enabling the vehicle to tackle rocks, wooden logs, and other large obstacles more easily.
Rivian will likely offer one or more exclusive colors inspired by natural landscapes. Our illustrations depict the model in dark green and light brown finishes that evoke the imagery of forests and deserts, respectively.
Interior
If the Rivian R2X goes into production, we expect it to feature nature-themed interior colors applied to the dashboard, door panels, and center console. More durable trim, floor mats, and upholstery should provide protection from sticky mud flung in during off-road use or from accidental spills.
Orange highlights on the steering wheel, dashboard, and center console will likely create visual continuity with the exterior. Rivian may also integrate additional storage and utility solutions for outdoor use, and offer accessories for this use case.
Features
The R2X, or any additional variant, should carry over convenience features such as dual gloveboxes, a removable torch in the driver’s side door, a completely flat-folding, 40:20:40-split rear seat, and a back glass that can be rolled down to access the cargo area without opening the tailgate from the R2.
We expect a wide digital instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system, electronic door buttons, heated and ventilated front seats with electric adjustment and a memory function, and a heated steering wheel as well.
Specifications
It is evident that a potential R2X would employ a tri-motor system with one motor at the front and two at the rear, providing all-wheel drive. Independent rear-wheel control would improve traction on uneven or slippery terrain.
On paved roads, the tri-motor setup should enable the R2X to accelerate from 0-60 mph in around three seconds, combining the best of both worlds.
The higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and tri-motor system are expected to reduce efficiency. While Rivian targets an EPA-estimated 300 miles for the standard R2, the R2X may deliver closer to 275 miles, sacrificing range for capability.
Release Date
While we await confirmation, the Rivian R2X could go on sale in the U.S. in 2027 at the earliest, with a starting price of around USD 60,000. The R2X may not become a high-volume variant, but its price positioning would improve margins and help utilize production capacity.
From a brand perspective, the R2X would also add versatility to the R2 lineup, and will be an interesting variant for the European market which Rivian plans to enter with the midsize vehicle.
Competitors
The Volvo EX60 Cross Country would be the closest alternative to the Rivian R2X, though their competitive positioning will largely depend on pricing.
The Subaru Trailseeker, Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally, Toyota bZ Woodland, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT are some interesting cars that we’ve checked out in the recent past, with different levels of capability off the tarmac. They could serve as softer alternatives to the R2X.
Featured Image Source: TopElectricSUV’s illustration of the Rivian R2X
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
