Rivian's R2 Just Made the Adventure EV Far More Reachable
Rivian starts R2 deliveries this week, bringing a Model Y sized adventure EV to a far lower price. Here is what first drives revealed.
Key Takeaways
- The R2 brings Rivian's adventure EV to a Model Y sized footprint at a much lower entry price.
- Cost cuts to drivetrain and suspension did not gut performance, with 3.6 second sprints intact.
- Software gaps like missing voice control and phone projection still need over-the-air updates.
Rivian began customer deliveries of its smaller R2 electric SUV this week, its first real push into the mainstream market. The two-row, five-seat model trades the R1's premium pricing for something far more attainable to everyday buyers.
According to The Verge, the dual-motor R2 reaches buyers starting June 9, with launch pricing under 60,000 dollars. Engadget reported a Performance Launch trim priced at 57,990 dollars, while The Verge cited 59,485 dollars for its launch version.
The size is the headline shift for would-be Rivian owners on a budget. Engadget noted the R2 measures 15 inches shorter than the three-row R1S, landing close to a Tesla Model Y.
Ars Technica measured the R2 at 185.9 inches long, roughly an inch longer than a Honda CR-V. That compact footprint gives the SUV a tighter turning circle and easier city manners.
Despite the smaller frame, the R2 keeps Rivian's off-road intent intact. All three reviews reported 9.6 inches of ground clearance, matching a base Jeep Wrangler.
Engadget ran the R2 through steep ascents, bare rock, and river crossings near Park City, Utah. The reviewer found it handled the course with aplomb despite a simpler drivetrain than the R1.
How Rivian cut cost without cutting capability
The R2 uses two motors with open differentials rather than the R1's pricier setup. Engadget explained the system brakes any spinning wheel to send power where grip remains.
The suspension also changed to steel springs and conventional dampers instead of the R1's air springs. Ars Technica framed this as a clear cost-saving compromise versus the flagship platform.
Performance numbers stayed strong for the top trim despite those changes. The Verge and Engadget both clocked the Performance model at 3.6 seconds from zero to 60 mph.
Both outlets also reported 656 horsepower for the dual-motor Performance version. The Verge added a quoted range of up to 330 miles for that configuration.
Cheaper variants are coming, but most arrive later. According to The Verge, a single-motor Standard version will start far lower, though not until summer 2027.
Tech promises that still need updates
Inside, the R2 centers on a large touchscreen with two oversized haptic steering dials. The Verge and Engadget both described these as a deliberate nod to physical, tactile control.
The hands-free Universal Hands-Free system steers the SUV on most highways. Engadget found it held lanes well, but its test car refused automatic lane changes.
Some features are simply not ready at launch yet. Engadget reported the R2 ships without voice recognition or smartphone projection, with a voice update promised within months.
The first drives suggest a capable, attainable EV with software still maturing. Engadget concluded the R2 is Rivian's best SUV yet, calling its fundamentals strong.
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The Mixstackrr Team is a group of writers and editors with more than 10 years of combined experience in SEO and consumer tech. We test devices, dig through settings, and turn everyday tech problems into clear, step-by-step guides anyone can follow.