2026 Rivian R2

Overview

Now that its R1S and R1T models are making a splash on American roads, Rivian is turning its sights on a new SUV called R2, which is smaller and cheaper to maximize its appeal. The R2 is sized similarly to compact crossovers such as the BMW X3 and the Hyundai Tucson, but its $45,000 starting price and electric powertrain put it in the same segment as the Ford Mustang Mach E and the Tesla Model Y. Single, dual, and tri-motor powertrain configurations are available and the R2 can be had with two different battery sizes, the largest of which is said to provide a range of over 300 miles when combined with the single-motor powertrain. The interior of the SUV follows the design theme set by the larger Rivian models and features the same 15.6-inch center infotainment display. Two rows of seats accommodate up to five riders with a generously sized rear cargo area and a frunk for extra storage. Rivian forecasts that deliveries of the R2 will begin in the first half of 2026.

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What's New for 2026?

The R2 is a new model for Rivian for the 2026 model year. Its design and capabilities mirror that of Rivian's larger R1 models but its compact shape and lower starting price are intended to open the brand up to a wider audience.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Rivian hasn't announced trim levels for the R2 yet, but we expect it will follow the current lineup layout as the larger R1S. We do know that the R2 will be cheaper than the R1S, with a starting price of around $45,000. That price, however, is likely for the single-motor model with the standard battery pack, and we think upgrading to the larger pack to unlock the R2's maximum range is the way to go. When we find out more information about the R2's standard and optional equipment, we'll update this story with details and a recommendation on which one to buy.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

Three different electric powertrain setups are available in the R2. The single-motor base model features one electric motor driving the rear wheels, but dual- and tri-motor models provide all-wheel drive. The top-spec tri-motor arrangement has two motors on the rear axle and one on the front. Horsepower ratings have not been released for any of the motors. We haven't had the chance to test drive the R2 yet, and we likely won't until much closer to the SUV's on-sale date, but when we do we'll update this story with driving impressions and test results.

0–60-MPH Times

Rivian estimates that the R2 with the tri-motor arrangement will be quick enough to hit 60 mph in under 3.0 seconds. When we get a chance, we'll test that claim at our test track and update this story with our acceleration numbers.

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Range, Charging, and Battery Life

Two different battery packs are available in the R2, likely a Standard Battery and Large Battery to mirror the offerings from the larger R1 models. The future could also see the addition of a Max Battery to extend the range even further. For now, Rivian says the longest-range R2 will be the single-motor variant with the Large pack, which is estimated to deliver over 300 miles of range. Rivian hasn't released specs on the R2's charging system yet but estimates it can rejoice from 10 to 80 percent in under 30 minutes on a DC fast charger.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

The EPA hasn't released fuel economy estimates for the R2 yet, but due to its smaller size and presumably lighter curb weight, we expect to see higher ratings than the R1S's 65 MPGe city and 60 MPGe highway. When we get a chance, we'll take the R2 on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route and update this story with its real-world test results. For more information about the R2's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The R2's cabin features two rows of seats with space for five and a generously sized cargo area behind the second row. Designers have incorporated more cubby storage throughout the R2's interior than what's currently offered in the R1S, including a second glovebox. Overall, the interior design is similar to the rugged-but-luxurious theme found in the R1 models. Like those EVs, most of the R2's controls are accessed through the large infotainment display at the center of the dashboard. To keep with the adventurous image, Rivian has designed an optional roof-top tent for the R2 called Rivian Treehouse. It features a heated mattress, a lighting system, and even a screen for streaming content. Other available accessories include a bike rack and a compact travel kitchen.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

At the center of the R2's dashboard is a 15.6-inch infotainment display borrowed from the R1S. This screen also serves as the sole point of access for controls such as steering wheel and mirror adjustments, drive mode selector, and more. The software interface features expandable tiles for individual features with the main options (navigation, media, and climate controls) available always at the bottom of the display. Instead of delving into submenus, options slide out of the side of tiles to reduce the complexity of the system. Neither Apple CarPlay nor Android Auto is included, but an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and Amazon's Alexa voice assistant are all expected to be standard features.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Rivian says the R2 comes equipped with 11 cameras and five radar sensors to inform the SUV's driver-assistance features. The company hasn't said exactly which features will be offered, but we expect to see systems such as automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control as standard. For more information about the R2's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Standard adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

All Rivian models come with a generous standard warranty which includes bumper-to-bumper coverage for five years or 60,000 miles as well as a battery and drivetrain policy that goes on for eight years or 175,000 miles.

• Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers eight years or 175,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance