Rivian has introduced the R2, a more budget-friendly electric SUV. While it’s not available just yet, fans of Rivian’s designs are already anticipating its release. The R2 aims to provide a more affordable option compared to the flagship R1S.
To clarify, the R1S is likely to remain a superior vehicle compared to the R2. Rivian isn’t replacing the R1S with the R2; instead, the R2 will serve as a cost-effective alternative, meaning some compromises will be necessary.
So, what are these compromises? And how does the R2 stack up against the R1S? Here’s what we know so far.
If you appreciate Rivian’s design in the R1S, you’ll likely enjoy the R2 as well. The R2 looks similar to the R1S but is slightly smaller. Both models feature the characteristic oval headlights connected by a long light bar, with another light bar at the back.
The most noticeable difference in exterior design between the two vehicles is the size. The R1S measures 201 inches long, 82 inches wide, and 77 inches tall. In contrast, the R2 is 185.6 inches long, 75 inches wide, and 66.9 inches tall, making it smaller in every dimension, which will affect the interior space.
There are also some minor design tweaks. For instance, the R2’s rear windows can open, offering a more open-air driving experience.
Given the different dimensions, the interior space is affected significantly. While the R1S offers three rows of seating, the R2 only has two, with no option for a third row. So if you need a three-row SUV, the R1S is your only option among these two. However, for a more affordable three-row electric SUV, the Kia EV9 is worth considering.
The interior of the R2 has some additional features. Unlike the R1S, which doesn’t have a glove box, the R2 includes two. It also allows for the second and first-row seats to fold down flat, which can fit an air mattress, making it great for camping.
Both SUVs share several interior features, such as large infotainment displays running Rivian’s proprietary system, which doesn’t support CarPlay or Android Auto.
When it comes to self-driving capabilities, the R2 might have the edge. Rivian states that it will have 11 cameras and five radars, enabling it to drive on highways without the driver having to keep their hands on the wheel, unlike the current R1S model.
Performance details for the R2 are still mostly under wraps, but we know it will come in single-, dual-, and tri-motor variants. The tri-motor version is expected to accelerate to 60 miles per hour in under 3.0 seconds, making it quite fast. Pricing for this model remains unknown.
We know more about the performance of the R1S. By the time the R2 is released, the R1S could have even better specifications. The current R1S is available in dual-motor and quad-motor variants. The quad-motor version offers 835 horsepower and can go from 0 to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds. The standard dual-motor variant provides 533 horsepower, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
Performance isn’t just about speed. The R1S, especially the quad-motor version, is likely to remain more powerful than the R2, although that doesn’t automatically make it faster.
Range information for the R2 isn’t fully available yet, but Rivian claims it will offer over 300 miles, potentially in versions with larger battery packs. Hopefully, even the lowest-range model will cover at least 270 miles.
The R1S offers a range from 270 miles for the dual-motor model with the Standard battery, to around 400 miles for the dual-motor model with the Max battery. Not all battery sizes are available for every drivetrain. For example, the quad-motor variant isn’t available with the Standard battery option.
Both the R1S and R2 are expected to charge at similar rates, around 220 kilowatts, which enables the R1S to charge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. It would be ideal if Rivian improved charging speeds by the time the R2 launches, but there’s no confirmation yet.
Currently, you can order the R1S, though there’s a waiting period of a few months for delivery. Prices start at $74,900 for the dual-motor version with the Standard battery. The R2 isn’t available yet. Rivian is taking reservations for it, involving a refundable $100 deposit. Deliveries for the R2 are expected to start in the first half of 2026. The R2’s main attraction is its starting price of $45,000, significantly lower than the R1S.
For those who want a Rivian SUV right now, the R1S is the only option available. The R1S is highly regarded among electric vehicles, and if the R2 maintains similar quality, it’s likely to be very popular. However, the R1S will likely continue to be the better vehicle in terms of features and performance, albeit at a higher price. Those looking for a more affordable Rivian SUV will find the R2 an attractive option despite its smaller size and reduced performance.