All-New Rivian R2: Launch Date, Price, and Game-Changing Features You Need to Know

Rivian’s long-awaited R2 is finally official, bringing a more affordable entry point to the adventure-oriented EV maker’s lineup. Unveiled during a live stream from Rivian’s Normal, Illinois plant on March 7, the two-row, five-passenger electric SUV rides on an all-new midsize platform designed to cut cost without sacrificing the brand’s trademark off-road capability or over-the-air tech stack. Pricing & trims At launch, the 2027 Rivian R2 will be offered in two dual-motor AWD flavors: a 450-hp Premium model starting at $55,485 and a 656-hp Performance version from $59,485, both before destination fees. Rivian has also confirmed an even more affordable single-motor Standard trim targeting a $45,000 sticker, slated to arrive by late 2027. Battery, range & performance All trims share an 87.9-kWh lithium-ion pack engineered for up to 330 miles of EPA range in the Premium, while the torque-rich Performance cuts the 0–60 mph sprint to a claimed 3.4 seconds. A new 800-V electrical architecture unlocks 200 kW DC fast-charging, adding about 140 miles in 20 minutes on a compatible charger, making cross-country trips easier than ever. Design & interior tech Shorter overhangs, a 119-inch wheelbase and trademark stadium headlights give the R2 a purposeful stance. Inside, recycled materials, a panoramic glass roof with electro-chromic tint and Rivian’s updated 16-inch center touchscreen create a cabin that balances sustainability with high-end feel. Standard Driver+ advanced driver-assistance now includes hands-free highway driving and automated lane changes via a new sensor suite of lidar, radar and 12 cameras. Adventure-ready hardware The R2 retains 9.8 inches of ground clearance, standard dual-motor torque vectoring, and an available air suspension with adaptive dampers, allowing selectable ride heights for off-road crawling or highway efficiency. A 4,400-lb maximum tow rating keeps weekend toys in play, while a powered rear glass drop-window and 180-degree swing-gate simplify cargo loading. Release timeline & reservations Rivian will open order books this summer with a fully refundable $100 deposit and says early deliveries begin in spring 2026 for Launch Edition customers. Buyers will benefit from Rivian’s expanding Adventure Network of 300 kW DC chargers and at-home Level 2 wall box options. Why the R2 matters By pushing its starting price below the $60K mark—then below $50K a year later—Rivian positions the R2 squarely against the Tesla Model Y, Chevy Blazer EV and Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Line, but with more power, genuine trail chops and a gear-friendly interior. For eco-minded families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, Rivian’s newest electric SUV could be the segment’s most compelling mix of value, versatility and performance when it hits U.S. roads in 2026.