You can now get a Rivian without breaking the $70,000 mark. After months of rumors and leaks, Rivian has officially revealed the Rivian R2, its latest SUV, and the first one built on the new Rivian R2 platform. This vehicle is intended to be Rivian’s “Model 3 moment,” designed to be more accessible to the general public and sold at a higher volume than the R1S or R1T.
To hit this lower price point, the R2 does make some compromises, but it still offers a lot, especially for an electric SUV in this price range. It competes with models like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Mustang Mach-E, and Kia EV6. However, the R2 is more of a true SUV rather than a crossover, appealing to those who want a larger vehicle with Rivian’s unique design.
The R2 isn’t as big as the R1S — it has room for five seats instead of seven, making it less ideal for larger families who might want to consider the R1S or alternatives like the Kia EV9.
As an electric vehicle, the R2 is highly competitive. It comes in three drivetrain configurations: a single-motor rear-wheel drive, a dual-motor all-wheel drive, and a tri-motor all-wheel drive. All models can deliver over 300 miles of range, so opting for a lower-end model won’t necessarily mean compromising on range.
True to Rivian’s style, the R2 includes some unique features. Its rear window can fold down for an open-air experience and easier trunk loading. Both the second-row and first-row seats can fold down, making it convenient for camping with something like an air mattress.
The car is also equipped with advanced technology, boasting 11 cameras and five radars. Rivian claims this setup allows the car to self-drive on highways, letting the driver take their hands off the wheel and eyes off the road.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect is the starting price, which is even lower than anticipated. The Rivian R2 starts at $45,000 and is available for reservations now, with deliveries expected to begin in the first half of 2026.