Rivian has finally revealed the new Rivian R2 SUV, a more affordable electric SUV that many have been waiting for. While it’s not as large or as impressive as the R1S, it still offers a compelling option for those looking for a spacious electric vehicle without shelling out over $70,000.
However, the R2 faces stiff competition. Take the Tesla Model Y, for example. Although it’s technically a crossover and not a full-fledged SUV, it’s the bestselling electric vehicle, and in 2023, it was the bestselling car globally.
So how do the Rivian R2 and the Tesla Model Y stack up against each other? Let’s dive into the details.
The designs of these two vehicles are quite different, starting with their size. The Tesla Model Y, despite some branding claims, is more of a crossover. It features a hatchback trunk and a high roofline, with a sleek, minimalistic design that includes slanted headlights and flush door handles. Some might say the Model Y’s design is becoming a bit stale, but it’s still considered stylish by many.
On the other hand, the Rivian R2 is a true SUV with a blockier, more spacious interior. It features the characteristic oval headlights seen on the R1S and R1T and has a long light bar across the rear. The R2 has a more rugged appearance compared to the Model Y, and its design ensures it does not compromise on style.
When it comes to interiors, the differences continue. The Tesla Model Y is known for its minimalistic and stripped-back look, featuring a large infotainment display and two rows of seats with the option for a third. The interior is stark but functional.
The Rivian R2 boasts more interior space but does not offer a third row of seats. Instead, it provides versatility with the ability to fold down both the first and second rows of seats, making it roomy enough for an air mattress, ideal for camping trips. The R2’s interior is rugged and also features a large infotainment display.
Neither vehicle supports Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but both have well-designed infotainment systems and offer some self-driving features. The Tesla Model Y comes with Tesla Autopilot as standard, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. Upgrades to Enhanced Autopilot or “Full Self-Driving Capability” are available for an additional cost. The Rivian R2 offers an advanced self-driving system supported by 11 cameras and five radar sensors, promising hands-free and eyes-off-the-road driving on highways.
Performance-wise, both the R2 and the Model Y are impressive. The Tesla Model Y offers single-motor and dual-motor options. The base single-motor model, which is rear-wheel-drive, can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The Long Range model does it in 4.8 seconds, and the Performance model in 3.5 seconds.
Details about the Rivian R2’s performance are still emerging. It’s set to ship in 2026, and models will include single-motor, dual-motor, and tri-motor variants. The tri-motor model is expected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 3 seconds. We’ll have to wait to see how the lower-end models perform.
Range is another crucial aspect. The base Tesla Model Y offers a range of 260 miles, the Long Range model extends that to 310 miles, and the Performance model offers 279 miles. Charging speeds can reach up to 250 kilowatts at Tesla Superchargers.
We’re still waiting for more specifics on the R2’s range, but it’s expected to deliver over 300 miles on larger battery models. The base model might have a lower range. The R2 is anticipated to have a charging speed similar to the R1S, around 220 kilowatts, although Rivian might improve this by 2026. Both vehicles will support a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port.
In terms of availability, the Tesla Model Y is already on the market. It starts at $43,990 for the base model and qualifies for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit. You can purchase it right now.
The Rivian R2, however, won’t be available until the first half of 2026, with a starting price of $45,000. Rivian also claims it will qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. You can reserve an R2 now by paying a refundable $100 deposit to secure your spot in line.
In summary, the Tesla Model Y and Rivian R2 cater to different needs and styles. The Model Y is a sleek crossover that is already available, whereas the R2 is a rugged SUV set to hit the market in a few years. Despite their differences, both offer exciting features for potential buyers.